On June 12, I had the opportunity to interpret for a couple of thatch roofers, Shiozawa-san and Nakano-san.
During the morning session, Shiozawa-san taught students from the US about the knots and tools used to thatch roofs in Japan.
Nakano-san created a model roof and demonstrated how materials are used.
In the afternoon, Nakano-san spoke about the roofs he's thatched, many of which are cultural heritage sites. Shiosawa-san spoke about the greater ecological and social significance of thatch roofing in Japan.
Nakano-san making a bamboo needle used to thatch roofs
Storage of reeds and grasses used for thatching
Truth Window
Shiotsuki-san is currently building a straw bale home. 
Interesting foundation detail. 
Shiotsuki-san intends to attach metal lath at the bottom of the bale wall and plaster with mud. For further details, please see Shiotsuki-san's blog: ストローベイルハウスで里山に住みたい！
During the morning session, Shiozawa-san taught students from the US about the knots and tools used to thatch roofs in Japan. 
Nakano-san created a model roof and demonstrated how materials are used. 
Nakano-san making a bamboo needle used to thatch roofs
Storage of reeds and grasses used for thatching
As a part of the course, students spent one week in Miyama (京都府美山町), known for its thatch roofs. Ozeki-san a Japanese timber framer, helped organize the Miyama portion of the course. 
Ozeki-san standing in the guesthouse and cafe he built. This building features various interior finishes plastered by some of Japan's most renowned plasterers.
