KUSUNOKI (JAPANESE CAMPHOR)
Kusunoki is a durable hardwood celebrated for its rich color, striking grain, and distinctive aroma. Its hues range from light brown to deep reddish-brown, sometimes with subtle greenish undertones, all enhanced by a natural luster. The grain is bold and varied, creating unique and captivating patterns that make each piece truly individual.
With medium hardness and excellent resistance to insects and decay thanks to its natural camphor content, this wood has long been valued for both its practicality and fragrance. The fresh, slightly spicy scent has historically been used for insect repellent and relaxation, and Kusunoki has also been prized as aromatic wood. Notably, it is the most commonly used wood for Buddhist statues in Japan, favored for its durability, workability, and pleasant aroma.
Kusunoki is also a symbol of Toyohashi, the hometown of SLAB JAPAN, and is celebrated as the city tree, representing local culture. Its applications are wide-ranging, from furniture and chests to carvings, traditional crafts, and architectural materials. Over time, the wood deepens in color and the fragrance softens, enhancing its warm and inviting character.
Combining beauty, strength, and a unique scent, Kusunoki is a material that embodies Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
SELECTED WITH CARE
At SLAB JAPAN, we believe that the quality of furniture starts with the material itself.
Drawing on years of experience and a trained eye, we carefully source our wood from trusted suppliers across Japan.
Every piece is thoroughly assessed— the wood species, condition, level of drying, and the beauty of the grain — to ensure only the finest materials are chosen.
We are deeply committed to five native Japanese woods: Hinoki, Sugi, Keyaki, Sakura, and Kusunoki.
Rich in history and deeply rooted in Japanese culture, these woods are crafted to express their timeless beauty and character. These woods form the very foundation of SLAB JAPAN's craftsmanship and define the timeless quality of our furniture.
HIGH-FREQUENCY PRESS DRYING PROCESS
At SLAB JAPAN, we use high-frequency press drying to protect the quality of our wood. This advanced process dries the wood evenly from the inside, ensuring stable and reliable results in a short time.
Compared to traditional air or hot-air drying, it helps prevent warping and cracking while preserving the wood’s strength and natural beauty.
Drying under pressure also stabilises the wood’s shape, making it ideal for furniture making.
At SLAB JAPAN, we carefully control the drying process to bring out the best in every piece of wood.
FLATTENING & HAND SANDING
At SLAB JAPAN, every piece of wood is first precisely flattened to remove any warping or unevenness, ensuring stability and strength.
After flattening, each piece is hand-sanded by our craftsmen. This finishing brings out the wood’s natural grain and creates a smooth, luxurious touch. As a result, the wood is not just beautiful to look at—it feels exceptional to the touch. SLAB JAPAN’s furniture blends precise technology with the finesse of the skilled hands.
WOOD FINISHING
For our finishes, we use “Polyurex” by WASHIN CHEMICAL INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., a top-rated polyurethane coating for furniture offering:
- Exceptional durability: Resistant to scratches and wear, keeping its beauty for years.
- Water and stain resistance: Protects against spills and everyday use.
- Clarity that highlights the grain: Brings out the natural beauty of the wood.
- Environmentally friendly: Low-VOC formulation ensures safety for indoor environments and people.
Finishing is not just about protection—it enhances the wood’s texture, color, and overall character. At SLAB JAPAN, each piece is carefully hand-coated and polished, resulting in a finish that delights both the eyes and the sense of touch.