Kasukabe Kiri tansu are made in Saitama Prefecture and have a simple yet sophisticated appearance as a result of their clean lines, use of joinery without metal nails, and minimal ornamentation. This craft tradition originated in the Edo period when joinery and small items were made using locally harvested paulownia wood. Kasukabe tansu are still made from high-quality domestic paulownia wood, primarily from Aizu in Fukushima Prefecture. Paulownia wood not only has beautiful grain but also has excellent moisture resistance and flame retardancy. In humid weather, it prevents moisture from reaching the inside of the tansu chest, thus keeping clothes and other contents fresh, dry, and free of mold.