Mr. Yuji Otsuka marks the upright post boards with the desired heights for horizontal culms. This varies according to the height of the fence.
A sharp bamboo saw is used with a cutting box to aid in making a smooth straight cut.
Cutting the vertical culms at a node prevents the cut pieces from collecting water. Therefore, the upper end is selected and cut before measuring the length for bottom cuts.
The oshibuchi 押縁 or horizontal culms are selected paying attention to node placement. You will want to position nodes aesthetically while avoiding conflicts with vertical pieces.
Once the horizontal culms are selected and positioned, they are predrilled for attachment to the posts.
Here, the horizontal culms are attached using 6p galvanized ring-shank nails. Drive them just until snug. Do not crush or crack the culms as this will weaken and reduce the life of the fence.
This time, the kakiko 垣子 or vertical culms are selected for node position. Remember you want to end up with a cut just above a node at the top of vertical culms.