Hinoki Soap Tray

Izuru is trying to go “back to the roots” and reintroduce Hinoki items back into our lives based on how they were historically used. Passionate about crafting beautiful, functional, and long-lasting pieces, using high-quality cypress and cedar while sustaining the local timber industry.

The high-quality Hinoki cypress used here is sourced locally from Yoshino, Nara. Cypress from this area is known for its high density and durability with its fine, uniform rings, resulting in beautiful wood grains.

The timber industry in Yoshino dates back to the 1500s when the first trees were planted to build the Osaka Castle, Momoyama Castle, and other temples and shrines. Since then, the forest has been carefully managed and protected, so that it is constantly regenerating, while craftspeople can also benefit from the timber.

This project supports one of the issues we'd like to address as a company. Due to the lack of workforce, there are overgrown abandoned forests leading to landslides in Japan. By creating and introducing pieces that use local wood, we can contribute to a healthier ecosystem that benefits both the people and the planet.