What yamato-bari means
Yamato-bari is boarding in which alternate boards are set forward and back, their edges slightly overlapping those of their neighbours. It is also called yamato-uchi. The boards usually run vertically, and it is treated as a form of vertical boarding.
The step between front and back boards gives the surface shadow. The overlaps block the view while the gaps at the steps can let air through, and on a fence it looks finished from either side. Besides fences, it is used for dados, ceilings and gate doors.
Reading the records
Records name it with the part or method. The gatehouse of the Mizuho Vinegar works, the Onishi family house, in Kashihara, Nara, has exposed-post walls with a yamato-bari dado and glazed doors, a modern design. The inner fence of the former Kitamuro clinic in Tsurugi, Tokushima, is of vertical boarding in yamato-uchi with a transom of crossed battens.
On site, look for boards alternately stepped forward and back in a regular vertical rhythm.
References
- 瑞穂酢（大西家住宅）門屋及び中門｜国指定文化財等データベース（文化庁）
- https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/bsys/maindetails/101/00014519
- 旧北室醫院庭門及び内塀｜国指定文化財等データベース（文化庁）
- https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/heritage/detail/101/00013455
Last verified: 2026.09.27