In this class, Northwest Maritime Center will build a traditional Japanese Boat using the construction as a backdrop exploring both the technical aspects of boatbuilding but also the cultural underpinnings of apprentice learning. Students will work with Japanese hand tools used in boatbuilding and learn specific techniques such as fitting plant seems using saws and making nail holes with special chisels. The design and evolution of the Japanese boats will be discussed along with the loss of traditional skills and response in contemporary Japan.