What Is This Tool?
This converter allows users to transform length values from centimeters, a widely used metric unit, into ken, a traditional Japanese measurement used primarily in architecture. It helps bridge modern metric measurements with culturally specific units relevant to historic and architectural contexts.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the length value in centimeters that you want to convert.
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Select 'centimeter [cm]' as the starting unit and 'ken' as the target unit.
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Click the convert button to see the equivalent length in ken.
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Use the output for architectural, design, or educational purposes related to Japanese measurements.
Key Features
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Converts length from centimeter to ken based on an established conversion rate.
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Supports understanding and communication of measurements for traditional Japanese architecture.
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Offers examples demonstrating how to apply the conversion factor.
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Browser-based and simple to use with no installation required.
Examples
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Converting 10 cm results in approximately 0.047206329 ken.
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Converting 50 cm gives about 0.236031645 ken.
Common Use Cases
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Measuring and describing room layouts using traditional ken dimensions.
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Restoring or documenting historic Japanese buildings and shrines with accurate modular spacing.
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Carpentry and architectural planning that employs traditional Japanese units.
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Translating metric measurements into culturally meaningful units for heritage preservation.
Tips & Best Practices
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Confirm the context and specific ken standard used since regional variations exist.
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Use the tool primarily for architectural or cultural heritage measurements where ken is relevant.
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Check architectural documents or historic sources for precise ken values as needed.
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Apply the conversion as a guide rather than an absolute exact measurement.
Limitations
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Ken measurements vary regionally and historically, which may affect accuracy.
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The standard conversion rate is approximate and may not suit all contexts.
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Ken is mostly used in Japanese architectural settings and is not common for general length conversions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a ken in length measurement?
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Ken is a traditional Japanese unit of length equal to six shaku, around 1.818 meters, primarily used in architecture.
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How do I convert centimeters to ken?
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Multiply the centimeter value by 0.0047206329 to get the equivalent length in ken.
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Where is ken commonly used?
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Ken is mainly used in traditional Japanese architecture, room sizing, and historical carpentry.
Key Terminology
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Centimeter (cm)
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A metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter, used for measuring small to moderate distances.
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Ken (間)
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A traditional Japanese length unit defined as six shaku, commonly used in architectural layouts and room sizing.
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Shaku
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A traditional Japanese measure of length, approximately 0.30303 meters, which serves as the basis for defining a ken.