Lexus and takumi: Shigeo Kiuchi, the master carpenter
Shigeo Kiuchi describes his career as a master carpenter for Kongō Gumi, the oldest continually operating company in the world.
What does Takumi mean? In Japan, the word takumi refers to a craftsperson who is unrivalled in their particular field of expertise.
Shigeo Kiuchi describes his career as a master carpenter for Kongō Gumi, the oldest continually operating company in the world.
Katsuaki Suganuma is proof that humans still play a vital role in car manufacturing, using his razor-sharp senses to ensure every Lexus that leaves the Tahara plant is perfect.
Within each Lexus production facility, there is no greater honour than to be called a takumi. Yet equally, there is no greater responsibility.
A new Lexus documentary asks whether the skills of devoted craftspeople can survive in a world increasingly powered by artificial intelligence.
We examine how the quality and performance of the 2017 Lexus LC is a result of the precision skills of Takumi master craftspeople.
The principal figures behind the Lexus LC, Chief Engineer Koji Sato and Chief Designer Tadao Mori, give a personal insight into the development of our new luxury coupe.
We take a look behind-the-scenes at the Lexus ES, proudly manufactured by Japanese-trained Takumi Master Craftsman in Georgetown, Kentucky.
Find out why Lexus’ “Takumi” craftsmen have to prove they can fold an origami cat in less than 90 seconds.