The kirihibachi, a traditional Japanese hand/room warmer made of paulownia (also called princess tree), was nationally famous before the heating instrument using oil or electricity appeared. The main reasons were that it was easy to obtain the material in those days and that a lacquer work technique used for the kirihibachi attracted people. Presently, paulownia vases, cake trays, and small drawers are manufactured with splendid lacquer work performed while making use of the grain of the paulownia.