Yakisugi is a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique, first employed by monks around 800 years ago. 

'Yaki' means 'to heat with fire'. 'Sugi' is Cypress.

 

In charring the timber, without causing combustion, the wood becomes waterproof through the process of carbonisation. Other attributes include, resistance to decay, rot and insect infestation, and a natural lifespan of over 80 years with minimal maintainance

 

After 'Suyaki' (the original charring), two further processes can be employed;

'Gendai'  - brushed once 

'Pika Pika' - brushed twice

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