the jdm h22a was "CLOSED" deck just like the h22a1 (USDM version).
the h22a4 has its own strongs but yes it is an open deck.

if u are buying a motor and planning to turbo it...the single most inportant piece of advice i got for you is BUILD THE MOTOR BEFORE YOU SWAP.

you have to remember that building an engine is 10 times easier when its on a skid in front of your garage (engine stand is better).
the h22a/1 has FRM lined cylinders, i give your turbo h22 about 10k miles with no sleeves before oil consumption becomes a problem.

SLEEVE BLOCK
RODS/PISTONS
CAM GEARS (solves your VTEC overlap tuning issue)

easy, your done

~boom