Architecture: Japanese discover their old country houses

The thatched country house is idyllically nestled between wooded mountains and rice fields. It consists of centuries-old wooden beams and is reminiscent of German half-timbered houses at first glance. "Thanks to Japan's traditional architecture, such houses can even withstand earthquakes," says Karl Bengs enthusiastically. An art that only a few carpenters have mastered. "It is unique in the world," enthuses the German architect. So that this art, which does not require nails and screws, does not die out, the 79-year-old native of Berlin has dedicated himself to the "recycling" of "Kominka" in his adopted home of Japan.