Hinoki
A sacred and meditative wood, prized for its crisp, dry, and subtly smoky aroma. Hinoki evokes the quiet of Japanese cypress forests. It is one of the most revered materials in Japanese perfumery and woodcraft.
Fragrance Pyramid
Olfactive Character
Crisp, dry, and faintly smoky. A clean, resinous woodiness with camphoraceous freshness and warm cedar undertones. The scent opens sharp and settles into something quieter.
Origin & Harvest
Steam-distilled from the wood of Japanese Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), cultivated primarily in the mountains of central Japan. The oil is extracted from both heartwood and leaf. Synthetic reconstructions exist but rarely capture the full depth of the natural material.
Key Molecules
Alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, and cedrol form the backbone of the scent. Borneol and sabinene contribute the camphoraceous freshness. Trace amounts of terpinolene add a mild herbal quality.
Safety & Regulation
Contains terpenes and cedrol, which may cause skin sensitivity in some individuals. Compliant with current IFRA guidelines for use in fine fragrance. Patch testing is recommended for direct skin application.
In Perfumery
Found in compositions such as Comme des Garcons Hinoki, Le Labo Gaiac 10, and Diptyque Tam Dao. Pairs well with vetiver, sandalwood, incense, and citrus notes. In KIDA KYO, Hinoki grounds our compositions with quiet warmth.
History
Hinoki has been used in Japanese temple construction for over a thousand years. Its wood is prized for its resistance to decay and its calming aroma. In Shinto tradition, Hinoki is considered sacred. The essential oil entered Western perfumery in the late 20th century and remains closely associated with meditative, woody compositions.
