Architect spec'd shou sugi ban for our ADU. Is this actually durable or just Instagram-trendy? And where do you even buy it?

Getting an ADU built in Portland OR. Architect wants shou sugi ban (yakisugi) for the exterior, that charred wood look. It looks incredible on Pinterest but I have practical questions: 1. Does the char layer actually protect the wood or does it just look cool for 2 years then fail? 2. Does it shed char onto your hands/clothes when you brush against it? 3. Where do you even source pre-charred siding in the US? The architect mentioned "just char it on site" which sounds terrifying near my house. 4. What species should the base wood be? I've seen people char cedar, cypress, even pine. Want something that'll last 20+ years in Pacific NW rain without annual maintenance. Is shou sugi ban actually that, or should I just go with something proven?