{"id":31079,"date":"2025-12-12T15:10:45","date_gmt":"2025-12-12T05:10:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/woodcentral.com.au\/?p=31079"},"modified":"2025-12-15T22:45:35","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T12:45:35","slug":"burning-the-grand-ring-japan-to-torch-worlds-largest-timber-structure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/woodcentral.com.au\/burning-the-grand-ring-japan-to-torch-worlds-largest-timber-structure\/","title":{"rendered":"Burning the Grand Ring: Japan to Torch World\u2019s Largest Timber Structure?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Up to 70% of the timber used in Osaka’s Grand Ring \u2014 the world\u2019s largest architecturally designed wooden structure \u2014 will be turned into firewood, according to its architect Sou Fujimoto. That is despite Wood Central previously reporting that the vast majority of recycled timber would be used to build quake\u2011proof disaster housing.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The two\u2011kilometre\u2011long ring wrapped around the Expo 2025 Osaka site from April to October. Now, demolition is underway, with only a 200\u2011metre stretch slated for preservation as a long-term monument to the site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Earlier this year<\/a>, Wood Central revealed Fujimoto\u2019s belief that the project was \u201ca symbol of our times,\u201d rooted in Japan\u2019s centuries\u2011old wooden\u2011building tradition. \u201cHowever, we haven\u2019t fully harnessed these natural materials to their greatest potential. (As a result) I have blended traditional design principles with cutting\u2011edge tech to create the largest wooden structure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Guinness
In March, the Grand Ring was officially crowned as the world\u2019s largest wooden architectural structure. Here, the Guinness World Records Official Adjudicator, ISHIGE Hiroyuki (Secretary General of the Association), is with Sou Fujimoto, the architect for the structure. (Photo Credit: Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Around 70% of the timber used in the Ring was made of Japanese cedar and hinoki, while the remainder included stronger European red cedar and reinforced steel. Consequently, the structure was engineered to withstand major earthquakes. Inside, thousands of components were joined using Nuki joints \u2014 a traditional Japanese method requiring no nails or screws. Because of this, the entire structure could be dismantled and rebuilt elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cInside, massive wooden beams hold up the sloped roof, which doubles as the skywalk, protecting thousands of visitors from the weather,\u201d said Andrew Dunn, CEO of the Australian-based Timber Development Association, who led a study tour of the World Expo site earlier this year. \u201cFrom the highest point, you can take in the complete circular form of the structure, with pavilions from around the world gathered both inside and outside the ring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"IMG<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"IMG<\/figure>\n
A view inside the Giant Ring \u2013 where thousands of timber pieces are connected using a traditional woodworking method known as Nuki joints, a nail and screw free construction technique. (Photo Credit: Andrew Dunn)
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

However, speaking exclusively to Dezeen overnight<\/a>, Fujimoto said he now expects most of the timber to be burned. \u201cUnfortunately, now, almost a decision by the political people [has been made about] keeping only 10%, 200 metres, and then all the rest will be demolished,\u201d he said, before adding that \u201cmaybe 20% could be carefully dismantled and then transported to other places for a second life.\u201d But he warned that \u201c70%, at least as far as I\u2019ve heard, they will just demolish and then make it chips for the fuel.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expo and Osaka authorities have not confirmed the final plan for the dismantled timber. Nevertheless, Fujimoto\u2019s studio is not involved in the decision\u2011making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the expo closed, The Japan Times quoted an official from Suzu saying some wood would be donated for public housing after the 2024 earthquake and floods. Even so, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition auctioned off portions of the lumber between 17 October and 6 November.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n