log on shrine roof set perpendicular to ridgepole
Architectural term for a decorative log placed horizontally across the ridge of a Shinto shrine roof, often in pairs. Also called 鰹木 (かつおぎ) because its shape resembles a dried bonito fillet.
Katsuogi logs are lined up on the roof of the shrine.
Katsuogi are placed perpendicular to the ridgepole.
Standard kanji spelling for this architectural term.
Alternate kanji spelling; less common than 鰹木.
The origin is uncertain. A traditional explanation connects 鰹木 with the logs’ resemblance to dried bonito, while historical spellings such as 勝男木 show that the present kanji do not securely establish the name’s formation.