Yakisugi

[2][3][1] It is referred to in the West as burnt timber cladding and is also available as shou sugi ban (焼杉板), a term which uses the same kanji characters, but an alternative pronunciation.

By slightly charring the surface of the wood without combusting the whole piece, the surface becomes water-resistant through the carbonization and at the same time its hygroscopy is decreased due to chemical cell-changing process during carbonization, which results in increased durability.

[6] However, some studies showed that a mere charring of the surface does not improve durability or fire resistance.

[7] This old technique has several similarities with the modern thermal wood modification[8] methods used in Europe and elsewhere.

[9][10] In addition, Japanese architect Kengo Kuma uses this charred wood material in his modern creations.