Hinoki wood
Kitchen benefits
Hinoki is a fantastic wood for kitchen use. Highly durable, yet lightweight, its beautiful scent provides a relaxing and pleasant combination of citrus and pine. While the wood is soft enough to help protect knife edges from chipping and dulling, it is hard enough to withstand years of chopping and kitchen prep work.
Hinoki is rich in Phytoncides, a naturally occurring organic, antimicrobial compound that helps suppress mold and bacteria growth. This type of cutting board is a favorite among sushi chef’s and knife enthusiasts.
Hinoki essential oil also offers many health benefits such as healing minor cuts and scrapes and relieving sinus congestion.
The Torii Gates at Meiji Jingu Shrine are also made from Hinoki Cypress.
Tradition of durability
Hinoki wood is excellent for controlling humidity, preventing mold and is resistant to warping.
Used in temples, shrines and household products for centuries, Hinoki Cypress (Botanical name: Chamaecyparis obtuse) has a rich history in Japan. Famed temples in Nara, estimated to be over 1,300 years old, are made from hinoki cypress.