Himitsu-Bako (Personal Secret Box) is more commonly known as a Japanese Puzzle Box that dates back to over 100 years ago. Originating back in 1870, these boxes were created by a master woodworker named Ryugoro Okawa in the Hakone region in Japan.
These handcrafted puzzle boxes are not only intricate in their construction, but they are also decorated with a unique Japanese veneer called yosegi, dating back to the late Edo Period. Using a complex process of binding and cutting different species of wood, mosaic patterns are created to reflect Japanese culture.
In my opinion, the most interesting aspect with Himitsu-Bako is in its deception. As an object, it appears to be an ornamental box made from wood with no recognizable openings, latches, or hinges. However, with the correct sequence of precise movements or specific pressure points, this enables the lid to be slid open to reveal its contents.
The puzzle boxes were originally used to hold valuables and act as a hiding place for jewelry, coins and important documents. But since the art of making Himitsu-Bako has never been written down, it only allowed the creator or its owner to unveil its secrets.
The puzzle boxes can range from 1 sun* to 7 sun in size, referring to a traditional Japanese unit of measure to denote length. Some boxes are able to be opened within 2 moves, however more intricate designs can have up to 125 moves.
This art form is still in practice today in the Hakone region in Japan and is handed down in strictest confidence from generation to generation from master to apprentice. As a result, there are only a small number of people that have mastered the art of its craft and know the true secret behind Himitsu-Bako.
*1 sun = 1.22 inches
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