Masuya Hinoki Cypress "Masu cup" Earrings

Masu cups have played an important part in Japanese traditions for over 1300 years. The small square cups made of Hinoki wood were originally used to measure rice and other food items, especially when they were still a trading currency. The term ‘masu’ means ‘growth’ in Japanese, and thus these cups became an important symbol for growth, success and prosperity. The cups became popular sake cups during weddings and traditional celebrations, and farmers use the masu cups to serve beans on the day before spring, to pray for a successful harvest.

No wood is specifically cut to make masu cups. Instead, they are made by recycling wood that did not meet the standards for construction; Hinoki trees are not only beautiful, but also believed to have a cleansing and purifying effect, and therefore a popular material either way. The wood has a long-lasting, calming fragrance, antibacterial and stress-relieving properties and even suppresses the formation of mould, bacteria and mite; making it a versatile object, used both in home as in popular sushi kitchens!

MASUYA was established in 1950 and has been making high-quality masu cups for over 60 years. Next to traditional masu cups, they also have a wide range of other Hinoki products, including a unique, ecological humidifier, drinking sets, and even customizable cups.