Traditional Japanese architectural craftsmanship used in timber-framed structures was approved Thursday for addition to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, a committee of the U.N. cultural body said.

Traditional skills, techniques and knowledge that comprise the craftsmanship cover 17 areas essential for repairing and restoring shrines, temples and old houses, which are traditionally made of wood.

Such structures include Horyuji, a World Heritage Buddhist temple said to have been built in 607. The building in Nara Prefecture is the world's oldest surviving wooden structure.