Storied Magazine – Volume 03: The Cedar Issue

STORIED is inspired by the people, places, crafts, and traditions of Japan - sharing stories unearthed across an archipelago of alluring culture. STORIED is made for people seeking a connection to unknown characters and hideaways that are longing to be visited.

As an independent magazine-cum-journal and online platform, STORIED celebrates the notion of slow and sustainable journalism, touching personal narratives, and considered recommendations for the conscientious explorer. So, whether your interest is travel, design, or cultural heritage, let the pages of STORIED take you on a journey into the true heart of Japan.

Volume Three celebrates Japan's enduring relationship with cedar. Known as sugi in Japanese, the tall branches of these sacred trees – a symbol of Shintoism – provide a means for kami to descend to earth.

Sugi grow in abundance throughout most of the country and are beloved not only for their spiritual connections, but they are famed for their pleasant fragrance, warm colour, and soft, pliable texture that has been used for centuries in construction.

In this issue we reflect upon on how Japan’s perception of cedar has evolved and changed from ancient appreciations to its view as somewhat of a modern day menace. We contemplate how we may effectively use cedar to become more sustainably attuned with Japan’s forested places and we visit creatives and designers whose visions are inspiring positive change and producing exquisite products along the way.

Volume Three is a celebration of artisanship and traditions and an embrace of contemporary cedar within our everyday life.