The joinery in traditional Japanese construction is remarkably impressive in its craftsmanship. I've heard it was born from a combination of expensive and poor quality iron for nails (although the same could be said in European construction - hence the phrase, "dead as a door nail") and the desire to be able to relocate Shinto shrines without damage (which required joints that could sustain serious loads without nails or glue). The ingenuity of design, and craftsmanship in their manufacture is something to behold. You can stare at a joint, chiseled by someone hundreds of years ago from fine hardwood and appreciate the care and expertise put into it.
I wonder sometimes what we build that people look back on and will see the same quality of work.