Kaya
When this wood is used in go or shogi boards, they increase the value of them dramatically. It is very difficult to obtain a large piece of kaya, although you can probably afford a small one. Kaya has a unique smell, the skin of the tree is yellow, and the growth-rings are coarse.

Carving
Kaya is a relatively hard wood. It splits easily when carved against the grain, but its fibers are very durable and can`t be carved easily. Because the surface will become rough and irregular, so it should not be carved perpendicular to the grain.. In other words, it is not an easy tree to carve.

Finishing
The yellow skin of the tree is very beautiful, so you should use as colorless and transparent a finish as you can find. Cashew laquer, etc. works well.

Tainwan Hinoki
This tree used to be imported in place of hinoki, but it`s supply has been exhausted and it can now only be imported under special circumstances. It is a relatively hard wood, but easy to carve. Cracks tend to form in the koguchi (a surface cut similar to the one you would see on a tree stump). Its rings are very distinct and can be used to carve attractive pieces.