《Characteristics》
Simotsuke-suisha has developed in a mountainous area with rapid stream. It is not only practical but beautiful featuring its Sokuita (Side board), which is formed with two kinds of boards, Makuita (Flashing board) and Tsugiita (Joined board). It has been continuously improved to resist water power by reinforcing arch-shaped Makuita with Tsugiita.

The position of water pouring to turn a wheel decides how it is called. The top position is called Uwagake, the middle position is called Munegake, and the bottom position is called Shitageke. Each waterwheel has its own characteristics. As water only flows on wings, for Uwagake position, L-shaped gutter is equipped behind the body of waterwheel and its direction is adjusted to gather water there to make the waterwheel run by the power.

Nowadays, indeed a small number of waterwheels are used for practical purposes including obtaining ingredient of incense, but demand for waterwheel is mainly for a decorative purpose. It helps create pleasance in a garden, a shop or a park by adding its unique charm and bringing nostalgia. Today, Shimotsuke-mini suisha (a miniature Shimotsuke waterwheel) for interior decoration is also made with its inherited traditional technique.

[Traditional Craft Designated by Tochigi Prefecture]
Provided by Akikazu Fujihira
Translated by: Hiromi Fujii, reviewed by Marina Izumi