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Ken


A ken is a traditional Japanese unit of length used mainly in architecture and construction. It measures the distance between two pillars in traditional Japanese buildings and is roughly equivalent to 6 Japanese feet (shaku) or about 1.82 meters (approximately 6 feet).


The ken was a standard module in Japanese design, influencing room sizes and proportions in temples, houses, and other structures. Its use helped maintain harmony and consistency in traditional building layouts.


Though largely replaced by the metric system today, the ken remains significant in studying traditional Japanese architecture and cultural heritage.


Summary:



  • 1 ken ≈ 1.82 meters (6 feet)



  • Based on spacing between structural pillars



  • Used in traditional Japanese architecture



  • Important for historical and cultural studies




Handbreadth


A handbreadth is a traditional unit of length based on the width of a human hand, typically measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended. It was commonly used in ancient and medieval times for everyday measurements.



  • The handbreadth is generally about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), though the exact length could vary by culture and era.



  • It served as a practical, easy-to-use measure in tailoring, construction, and daily life before standardized units were established.



  • The handbreadth is one of several body-based units, like the span and palm, reflecting how humans used their own bodies for measuring.



Summary:



  • About 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm)



  • Based on the width of an extended hand



  • Used historically in various cultures



  • Practical for informal, everyday measurement



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