Japanese Cypress

Known for its distinctive fragrance and beautiful luster, this wood is considered the most beloved in Japan.

English Name	Japanese Cypress
Scientific Name	Chamaecyparis obtusa
Other Names	Hinoki cypress
Family	Cupressaceae
Origin	Japan — from Fukushima southward on Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Natural stands are found in Kiso, Mt. Koya, and Kochi. Plantation areas include Owase, Yoshino, Tenryu, Wakayama, etc. Kiso Hinoki is especially famous and is one of the "Five Trees of Kiso."
Appearance	Has a beautiful luster and a characteristic fragrance Heartwood: pale pink Sapwood: nearly white Fine texture, straight grain Border between sapwood and heartwood is often unclear
Wood Properties	Heartwood is highly durable and resistant to moisture Slightly light and soft
Applications	Used in a wide variety of applications: architecture, furniture, sculpture (e.g., Buddhist statues), wooden molds, bentwood items, buckets, etc. It is an important material for shrine construction (e.g., Ise Grand Shrine) and is also highly prized for luxury bathtubs.
Product Examples	Logs, building materials, decorative hardwood (karaki)