Kiri is paulownia, and it is the timber Japanese kitchens have used for boards for centuries for one reason: it is soft. A soft board gives under the edge instead of resisting it, so the knife stops where it should and the edge is not blunted every time it lands. If you have spent money on a Japanese knife the board underneath it matters as much as the stone you sharpen on.
It is also extremely light for its size, dries fast, and resists warping and splitting. Kiri has a naturally high oil content that slows water absorption and discourages bacteria. Wash it by hand, stand it on edge to dry, and it will outlast several plastic boards.
- Kiri paulownia is soft enough to protect a fine Japanese edge
- Very light for its size and quick to dry
- Naturally resists warping splitting and moisture absorption
- Hand wash and stand on edge to dry
- Made in Japan