Sugi and Hinoki: Japan’s Principal Lumber Species

There are a few dozen primary lumber species grown in the northern hemisphere, and two are indigenous to Japan: sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) and hinoki (Chamaecyparis obtusa). In this article, we will delve into the characteristics, applications, and cultural significance of these sacred softwoods.

Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica):

Appearance and Characteristics: Sugi, also known as Japanese cedar or cypress, has reddish-brown heartwood and straw-colored sapwood. It has a straight grain, moderate texture, and is resistant to fungus, insects, borers, and fire, making it a very durable option.

Sugi develops many branches when young and therefore the lumber generally has many small knots. Knots give the wood character and are generally part of the aesthetic appeal. For those who prefer boards without knots, premium clear grade is also a readily available option. In Japan, managed sugi forest is often limbed at 20-40 years old, meaning the lower limbs are cut off flush with the trunk. Lumber from the center of the logs will always have knots. The premium clear grade comes from the outside portion of the log that grows after the trees are limbed. Therefore select “character” grade generally has more heartwood, and premium clear grade generally has more sapwood. 

Applications and Uses: Sugi is a lightweight, fast-drying, mineral-rich, and straight-grained wood with a low deflection rate. The grain is consistent and contrasting, and the color is highly variable. This combination is considered aesthetically pleasing in appearance-grade lumber. Since these characteristics are desirable for construction lumber and sugi exhibits them more than other species available in Japan, it is therefore the predominant species used in low to midrise construction. Architectural applications include the full range, including vertical and horizontal framing members, exterior siding and frieze components, interior flooring and paneling, and furniture and fencing. Sugi is utilized in larger volume than all other species combined.

Of all these applications, Japan is probably most well known for yakisugi charred wood siding. The charring process has been optimized on the sugi species over centuries, and it is the only species ever used in the charring process. Indeed the term yakisugi means “charred sugi” and it is rich in cultural history. The charring process results in flamboyantly beautiful siding with increased resistance to decay, fire, and insects. The soot layer can be left fully intact, or wire brushed to polish into different textures.

Nakamoto Forestry has been the preeminent sugi siding, yakisugi, and flooring manufacturer in Japan since the 1970’s. Shop our charred and uncharred sugi products.

Hinoki (Chamaecyparis obtusa):

Appearance and Characteristics: Hinoki, also known as Japanese cypress, is an aromatic cypress species native to central and southern Japan. It grows more slowly and is more mineral-rich than sugi, resulting in a consistently tight, dense, and straight grain. The growth rings are more nuanced and the wood has an even blonde color with pink highlights. Hinoki contains natural oils including hinokitiols, making it resistant to rot, fungi, and insects, much like sugi. The fresh and robust aroma has a lemon-like scent that has been shown in academic studies to give unique health benefits. These benefits include a palpable relaxation effect, and strengthening of the immune, nervous, and respiratory systems.

Due to these characteristics hinoki is considered a sacred species in the indigenous animistic Shinto tradition and is the primary species used in Shinto shrine construction. In fact, hinoki becomes stronger as it ages and due to its astounding durability, many of these shrines as well as Buddhist temples remain intact after hundreds of years. Hinoki lumber has been shown to gradually weaken starting 1,000 years after the building is erected.

Applications and Uses: Hinoki is a versatile material, with applications ranging from framing timbers, interior paneling, and exterior siding, to flooring and furniture. It is an especially outstanding option for tubs and saunas, where its calming and beneficial aroma is elevated. Hinoki can be used oiled or unoiled, but due to the aroma it is generally used without an oil finish. 

Due to high natural oil content hinoki will bleed pitch during storage, so it must be molded or faced immediately before use. Nakamoto Forestry North America inventories hinoki moulder blanks which are then custom milled at customers’ local millwork shops to any number of profile options.

Side by Side – Sugi vs. Hinoki

While sugi and hinoki share many similarities in texture and durability, they have several differences which may make one a better fit for your project than the other. Sugi has a warmer and darker color compared to hinoki’s blonde pallet. While sugi also has a high durability rating, hinoki’s durability is unmatched by any other softwood species. Sugi is very soft and porous, ideal for exterior siding. Hinoki is heavy and hard, making it ideal for interior flooring. Both species are aromatic and beautiful, characteristics ideal for interior paneling. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the similarities and differences between sugi and hinoki as a building material:

To further compare these wondrous woods, please reach out to our sales team for budgetary pricing, information, or samples.