OSAMU SHOJI is one of the most respected woodworking teachers in Japan. In 1974 he founded Oak Village,  a multi-faceted woodworking center that produces both production and custom-made furniture and other household items.  In 1991 Shoji-san started Shinrin Takumijuku, a woodworking school where he serves as the Master Instructor. Both are located near Takayama, in the Japanese Alps.