The Uses of Katsura Wood

Guitars

• Yamaha has occasionally used Katsura in its acoustic guitar designs. The wood gives a beautiful finish to the instrument, and provides a rich tone. Gibson and other guitar makers have also used the wood in the past, and the guitars are often heavily sought after for their durability and tone, as well as their classic finish.

Cultural Artifacts

• Many ancient Japanese and Asian artifacts have been found carved from Katsura wood. It had been used for furniture, carvings, and decorative art. For example, the World Heritage Chuson-ji Temple, in Japan, has a series of 12th century Buddhas carved of Katsura, demonstrating the longevity of this strong wood.

Puzzle Boxes

• The Japanese have been making puzzle boxes since the end of the Edo Period, around 1860. Called "himitsu-bako" in Japan, or "personal secret box," the boxes feature intricate wooden designs and complicated designs for opening. Originally made for travelers to hide their valuables, the boxes typically utilize several different types of wood in each design, with Katsura among them.

Go Boards

• "Go" is an ancient Chinese board game. The game is played on a go board which is a large, solid wooden block raised on four short legs, inlaid with a grid which serves as the playing surface. Go boards were traditionally made of Katsura wood, and Katsura go boards can still be found today.