Shou sugi ban?
Shou sugi ban, yakisugi, burnt wood, charred wood – different names for the same process. But which is correct? As with many things, the answer depends on the manufacturer. All these names refer to the same tradition: surface treating wood using natural fire to transform the material into something unique and durable. Here we explore the meanings and history behind these terms and explain why we chose the term charred wood for what we create.
Shou sugi ban
If you're reading about charred wood production, you're almost certain to come across the termshou sugi ban (焼杉板). This Japanese expression refers to a traditional method where the surface of the wood is burned to protect it from moisture, pests and rot.
The technique dates back hundreds of years and was originally developed in Japan for the sugi tree species, known in English as Japanese cedar. However, the term shou sugi ban is not used in Japan. Instead, the method is referred to as yakisugi ( 焼杉板).
It is believed that shou sugi ban emerged as a mistranslation in the West. Amusingly, it has become the most recognised international term for wood charred by fire.
Yakisugi
Yakisugi (焼杉板) is closer to the original Japanese term and translates directly as “fire-heated (or burnt) Japanese cedar”. It is still used in Japan to describe this durable and beautiful treatment. It conveys the simple essence of the process: wood given new life through the power of fire.
Charred wood
Charred wood refers directly to the charcoal layer formed on the wood’s surface, which acts as a natural barrier against decomposers and moisture.
The wood is not burnt through; deep inside, it remains unchanged in its properties. For us, this term best represents our product, and it is the name we’ve chosen for both our company and our products.
The term carbonised wood is also occasionally used to describe charred wood, which we believe refers to the same process. We prefer the shorter term.
Burnt wood
Technically, Hiil’s products are burnt wood – they have been exposed to fire and deliberately set alight. However, the word burnt may also suggest wood that has been left in the fire for too long, fully burnt through, or reduced to firewood.
In Hiil’s production, the wood is only exposed to fire for a few minutes, just enough for it to char adequately. The fire is extinguished immediately once sufficient charring has occurred, leaving a protective layer on the surface. For this reason, we prefer the term charred wood, which better describes the final product.
Carbonised wood
The term carbonised wood is also sometimes used. Although it refers to the same process,
we feel it evokes imagery that is too closely associated with traditional methods of charring wood over an open fire or campfire embers.
At Hiil, our production takes place in an efficient, fast and controlled combustion environment, ensuring the wood is evenly and consistently charred to a high standard.
What’s in a name?
Names and terms always convey associations. That’s why we wanted to reflect on these different names aloud.
Ultimately, however, the name is secondary. What matters most is what charred wood represents to us: ethics, durability and individuality that extend beyond the surface.