Juuchiji

Juuchiji is a term that can refer to several things, most commonly a type of Japanese knotting technique and a specific type of puzzle. In the context of knotting, juuchiji refers to a decorative knot often used in crafts and traditional Japanese arts. It is characterized by its intricate interwoven pattern, which can create a visually appealing and strong binding. This knot is typically made from cord or string and can be found adorning items such as kimonos, obis, and various decorative objects. The construction of a juuchiji knot involves a specific sequence of looping and tightening to achieve its distinctive form.

Alternatively, juuchiji can also denote a type of Japanese puzzle, often translated as a "crossword" or "word puzzle." These puzzles are similar in concept to Western crosswords but may incorporate Japanese characters (kanji, hiragana, or katakana) and themes. The grid structure and the clue-solving process are fundamental to this form of juuchiji. Players fill in a grid with words or phrases based on provided clues, which can range from definitions to riddles. The goal is to complete the entire grid by correctly solving all the clues. The term itself, "juuchiji," in this context, directly relates to the crossing nature of the words within the puzzle.