Ancient Japanese kitchens were designed with efficiency in mind and often featured islands for food preparation. These islands were typically made of wood and served as a central workspace for cooking and sushi-making. Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients such as seafood, rice, vegetables, and soy-based products. The island in their kitchens provided a dedicated area for chopping, slicing fish, and assembling sushi rolls. It also allowed for easy access to different cooking utensils and ingredients, making the cooking process more convenient and organized.