Japanese oak, also known as Quercus serrata, is a beautiful hardwood species native to Asia. Synonyms for this species include daimyo oak, konara oak, and shirakashi oak. Daimyo oak is a term that refers specifically to trees grown in the mountainous regions of Japan, while konara oak is commonly found in Korea and China. Shirakashi oak, on the other hand, is native to Japan and is highly valued for its straight grain and light color. These synonyms are often used interchangeably but can refer to specific regional variations of the Quercus serrata species. Regardless of the name used, Japanese oak is highly sought-after for its durability and versatility in furniture and flooring.