Last Updated on December 14, 2025
Have you ever struggled with a cutting board that dulls your knives or slips on the counter? It’s frustrating when preparing meals becomes a chore instead of a joy.
Choosing the right cutting board can change everything. A good board protects your knives, stays sturdy, and feels just right under your hands. Japanese wood cutting boards, like the ones made from Hinoki or Cypress wood, offer just that. They are gentle on blades, durable, and beautifully crafted.
Using one can make chopping vegetables or slicing meat smoother and more enjoyable. If you want to upgrade your kitchen tools and make cooking easier, keep reading. I’ll share some of the best Japanese wood cutting boards that can bring a touch of tradition and quality to your daily cooking.
Shun Hinoki Cutting Board
The Shun Hinoki Cutting Board – Medium is perfect for home cooks and professional chefs who value quality and craftsmanship in their kitchen tools. If you are looking for a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and hygienic cutting surface, this 15.75″ x 10.75″ x 0.5″ board made from premium Hinoki wood by Shun and manufactured by Kershaw is an excellent choice. Ideal for those who want to protect their knives while preparing food efficiently, this cutting board suits everyday meal prep and intricate cooking tasks alike.
Pros:
- Made from natural, high-quality Hinoki wood that is gentle on knives and naturally antibacterial.
- Medium size with dimensions of 15.75″ x 10.75″ x 0.5″, providing ample workspace without taking up too much counter space.
- Lightweight at approximately 0.11 pounds, making it easy to move and clean.
- Elegant, warm Hinoki color that enhances kitchen aesthetics.
- Crafted by reputable brand Shun and manufacturer Kershaw, ensuring high standards of quality.
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance such as oiling to preserve wood quality and longevity.
- Not dishwasher safe, necessitating hand washing and careful drying.
- Smaller size may not be ideal for cutting very large ingredients or multiple items simultaneously.
The Shun Hinoki Cutting Board features natural Hinoki wood known for its smooth texture and durability. This makes it gentle on your knives, helping maintain their sharpness longer compared to harder cutting surfaces. Additionally, Hinoki wood has natural antimicrobial properties, promoting a hygienic environment for food preparation. Its medium size balances functionality and convenience, fitting comfortably on most kitchen counters while providing enough surface area for various cutting tasks.
Beyond its practical benefits, the board’s elegant Hinoki color and fine craftsmanship add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. The lightweight design ensures ease of handling, making it simple to clean and store after use. Overall, this cutting board is a smart investment for anyone seeking a reliable, beautiful, and knife-friendly cutting surface that supports safe and efficient cooking routines.
To buy this product, click here.
Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board
The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board is ideal for culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs who value precision and care in food preparation. If you are someone who wants to preserve the sharpness of your knives while working on a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface, this Japanese chopping board is perfect for your kitchen.
Pros:
- Made from medium-soft Hinoki wood that helps to preserve knife edges
- Large size (17.75″ x 11.75″) provides ample space for chopping and slicing
- Lightweight design at just 0.11 pounds for easy handling
- Forest Stewardship Council certified, ensuring environmentally responsible sourcing
- Elegant natural Hinoki color adds a stylish touch to any kitchen
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance such as oiling to prevent drying and cracking
- Not dishwasher safe, must be hand washed carefully
- May be softer than harder wood boards, which can show knife marks over time
The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board features a smooth surface crafted from medium-soft Hinoki wood, known for its natural antibacterial properties and gentle impact on knife edges. This helps in maintaining the sharpness of your blades longer compared to harder surfaces. The large dimensions provide plenty of room for preparing a variety of ingredients, enhancing your cooking efficiency.
Additionally, this cutting board is Forest Stewardship Council certified, which means it is made from responsibly sourced wood, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious consumers. The lightweight and slim profile allow for easy storage and handling, while the beautiful natural color adds an authentic Japanese aesthetic to your kitchen space.
To buy this product, click here.
Yamasan Kyoto Uji Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board
The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board is ideal for home cooks and professional chefs who value quality and durability in their kitchen tools. If you are looking for a compact, elegant cutting board made from natural materials that enhances your food preparation experience, this small, natural cypress wood cutting board is a perfect choice. Its size and craftsmanship cater to those who need a reliable chopping surface without taking up too much counter space.
Pros:
- Made from premium natural Hinoki cypress wood known for its antibacterial properties
- Compact dimensions (14.17×8.66×0.59 inches) make it easy to handle and store
- High durability ensuring long-lasting use in busy kitchens
- Lightweight at just 1.23 pounds, ideal for quick maneuvering
- Crafted in Japan, reflecting superior quality and traditional craftsmanship
Cons:
- Smaller size may not be suitable for chopping large quantities at once
- Requires regular maintenance to preserve wood quality and appearance
The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board features a finely crafted surface made from natural cypress wood, which not only looks beautiful but also offers natural resistance to moisture and bacteria. This makes it a hygienic option for everyday food preparation. The board’s compact size allows for easy storage and is perfect for small kitchens or for those who prefer a minimalistic approach to their kitchen tools.
Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures that users can chop, slice, and dice with ease without worrying about wear and tear. Being made in Japan, this cutting board benefits from the country’s renowned woodworking traditions, promising excellent craftsmanship and quality. Overall, this cutting board combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it a valuable addition for anyone serious about cooking.
To buy this product, click here.
Shun Cutlery Small Hinoki Cutting Board
The Shun Cutlery Small Hinoki Cutting Board is perfect for home cooks and professional chefs who value precision and care in food preparation. Ideal for those who want to preserve the sharpness of their knives and prefer a high-quality, durable cutting surface made from natural materials. This cutting board suits kitchens where space is limited but performance cannot be compromised.
Pros:
- Made from medium-soft Hinoki wood that is gentle on knife edges, preserving sharpness longer.
- Compact dimensions (10.75″ x 8.25″) make it easy to handle and store.
- Lightweight at just 0.6093 pounds, enhancing portability and ease of use.
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified, ensuring sustainable and responsible sourcing.
- Attractive natural Hinoki color adds a touch of elegance to the kitchen.
Cons:
- Smaller size might not be suitable for cutting large quantities or big items.
- Wood requires regular maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
- Not dishwasher safe; needs hand washing and proper drying.
Crafted by Kershaw under the renowned Shun brand, this cutting board features authentic Hinoki wood, known for its natural antibacterial properties and smooth texture. The medium-soft wood surface is designed specifically to be gentle on knives, reducing wear and tear while providing a stable cutting platform. Its compact size makes it ideal for quick meal prep or for those with limited counter space, without sacrificing quality.
Additionally, the FSC certification guarantees that the wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious consumers. The board’s lightweight and slim profile make it easy to clean and store, enhancing convenience for everyday use. Overall, the Shun Cutlery Small Hinoki Cutting Board is a premium, sustainable kitchen tool that balances functionality and care for your cutlery.
To buy this product, click here.
Yamasan Kyoto Uji Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board – Medium
The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board is ideal for home chefs and culinary enthusiasts who value quality and durability in their kitchen tools. If you appreciate authentic Japanese craftsmanship and prefer a natural, eco-friendly cutting board made from premium Hinoki Cypress wood, this medium-sized board is perfect for your kitchen needs.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, natural Hinoki Cypress wood renowned for its durability and antibacterial properties.
- Medium size (15.35×8.66×0.59 inch) offering ample space for versatile chopping and cutting tasks.
- Lightweight at only 1.23 pounds, making it easy to handle and store.
- Crafted in Japan by YAMASAN KYOTO UJI, ensuring excellent craftsmanship and authenticity.
- Elegant natural wood color adds aesthetic appeal to any kitchen decor.
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance such as oiling to preserve wood quality and prevent cracking.
- Not dishwasher safe; needs hand washing and proper drying to maintain longevity.
- Medium size may be limiting for very large food preparation tasks.
The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Japanese Hinoki Cutting Board stands out due to its use of authentic Hinoki Cypress wood, known for its natural antibacterial traits and resistance to moisture, which makes it hygienic and long-lasting. Its medium size strikes a balance between functionality and convenience, allowing users to prepare various ingredients comfortably while fitting well in most kitchen spaces.
Additionally, the craftsmanship from YAMASAN KYOTO UJI ensures a product that not only performs well but also reflects traditional Japanese woodworking excellence. The lightweight nature of the board makes it easy to move and clean, while the natural wood finish adds an elegant touch to kitchen aesthetics. With proper care, this cutting board can serve as a reliable and beautiful kitchen tool for years.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Japanese Hinoki Cutting Boards Special?
Japanese Hinoki cutting boards are made from natural cypress wood. They are medium-soft, preserving knife edges effectively. These boards are highly durable and have a pleasant aroma. Many are Forest Stewardship Council certified, ensuring sustainability and quality craftsmanship.
How Do Hinoki Boards Preserve Knife Sharpness?
Hinoki wood is softer than plastic or glass, reducing blade dulling. The medium-soft texture absorbs knife impact gently. This helps maintain sharpness longer and reduces frequent sharpening. Using Hinoki boards prolongs your knives’ lifespan naturally and safely.
Are Japanese Cutting Boards Easy To Maintain?
Yes, Hinoki boards require simple care. Hand wash with mild soap and warm water. Avoid soaking or dishwasher use to prevent warping. Regular oiling with food-safe oil keeps the wood hydrated and durable. Proper care ensures long-lasting performance.
What Sizes Are Available For Shun Hinoki Cutting Boards?
Shun offers various sizes: small (about 10. 75″ x 8. 25″), medium (15. 75″ x 10. 75″), and large (17. 75″ x 11. 75″). These sizes fit different kitchen tasks and spaces. Choose based on your cutting needs and countertop space.
Are Yamasan Kyoto Uji Boards Sustainably Sourced?
Yes, Yamasan Kyoto Uji boards use natural Hinoki cypress wood from Japan. This wood is harvested sustainably, supporting forest health. The brand emphasizes high durability and authentic craftsmanship. Buying these boards supports eco-friendly practices and traditional Japanese quality.
Can These Boards Be Used For All Kitchen Tasks?
Hinoki cutting boards are versatile and suitable for chopping vegetables, meat, and fish. Their gentle surface protects knives while handling various foods. However, avoid heavy pounding or cleaving. Proper use keeps the board and knives in top condition.
Conclusion
Japanese wood cutting boards offer a perfect balance of beauty and function. Their soft yet durable wood helps keep knives sharp longer. Sizes range from small to large, fitting any kitchen need. Made from Hinoki or natural cypress, these boards are gentle on blades and easy to clean.
Many options come with Forest Stewardship Council certification, ensuring responsible forest management. Whether you choose a medium or small board, you get a high-quality, long-lasting kitchen tool. Using these boards brings a touch of Japanese tradition to your cooking space.
They are simple to maintain and add elegance to meal prep. For those who value both style and practicality, Japanese wood cutting boards are a great choice. They make chopping, slicing, and dicing easier and safer for your knives. A smart investment for anyone who loves cooking with care and respect for their tools.
