Collection: Yakusugi

Yakusugi, a designated natural monument, was banned from felling in 1982 and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993. Since then, removal from Yakushima has been greatly restricted, making it extremely difficult to obtain raw timber, and Yakusugi products have become extremely rare. A coniferous tree of the cedar family, it refers to trees that are grown on Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture, especially those that are over 300 years old. The wood is pale pink or brown, with complex and beautiful grain. It has quail grain, and is said to have a long lifespan because of its dense material, high resin content, and resistant to rot. It has been treasured since ancient times as a lucky charm for long life and safety in the home, and is used for transoms, ceiling boards, folding screens, tea shelves, etc. It is also called Satsuma cedar or demon cedar.