Kumiki puzzle (組み木パズル): the traditional Japanese puzzle

I love puzzles (as you can see from the photo collage!), and I wanted to share what I recently learned about Kumiki puzzles, also known as "interlocking wooden puzzles". These are traditional Japanese puzzles that date back to the late 1800s.

These 3D puzzles are made of wooden pieces that interlock to form a specific shape or structure. The intricate designs and craftsmanship of kumiki puzzles reflect the traditional woodworking skills of Japanese artisans.

They often depict animals, buildings, or geometric shapes, and solving them requires patience, dexterity, and a keen eye for detail. Kumiki puzzles are not only a form of entertainment but also a way to appreciate the artistry and precision of Japanese craftsmanship.

While jigsaw puzzles are mostly for entertainment, Kumiki puzzles are deeply rooted in Japanese tradition and craftsmanship, representing the country's rich heritage of woodworking and design. They originated in the Japanese carpentry tradition of building without metal, making the buildings much more earthquake resistant.

I read that the first kumiki puzzles were boxes made by craftsmen to protect their woodworking tools from wayward handling or disappearing. My husband definitely remembers these types of boxes and toys from his childhood in Japan. Sadly we don't have any his original toys.

Of course you can also find regular jigsaw puzzles in Japan, but they were introduced much more recently - in the early 20th century in fact. Although pretty new to Japan, some of my favorite puzzles are Japanese as you can see from the crystal Ghibli Studios series I made.

My next project will be a Kumiko puzzle, now I just have to decide what to get 😄

Do you love puzzles too? What's your favorite?