[Research & Development]
In 2023, we began research on sakura absolute, a natural fragrance traditionally considered extremely difficult to extract. Since cherry blossoms contain only trace amounts of aromatic compounds, we have been refining our pre-treatment methods to preserve their delicate scent.
While the extraction is performed by specialized external facilities, the resulting absolute is a rare and valuable material due to its exceptionally low yield. This unique fragrance is currently featured in our “D/SAKURA” product line, which includes nail oils and hand care items developed through OEM partnerships.
[Education & Outreach]
I offer a variety of courses focused on plants and fragrance, including aromatherapy, handmade soap making, and herbal studies. My programs go beyond simply acquiring knowledge and skills; I encourage participants to integrate plants and fragrance into their daily lives to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
In addition to public courses, I also provide corporate seminars and engage in community-based educational activities, including school programs, to share the value and appeal of plants and fragrance with a wider audience.
[Vision]
I aim to explore the potential of Sakura fragrance—an iconic symbol of Japanese spring—and create new value as a natural aromatic material.
As of 2026, my research is now in its fourth year and continues to evolve in pursuit of a fragrance that captures the authentic essence of Sakura.
By making the most of the gifts of fragrance and plants, I hope to foster meaningful connections between people and their local natural environments, opening up new possibilities for the future.
Cherry blossoms embody the essence of spring in Japan. Among them, yaezakura (double cherry blossoms) are known for their deep pink color and beautifully layered petals. This product is a rare natural absolute extracted from these delicate flowers.
Kanagawa Prefecture, especially Hadano City, is known as one of Japan’s leading regions for edible yaezakura. Yaezakura was traditionally used as an edible flower in Japan. In recent years, some blossoms are no longer used for various reasons. In this project, with the support of local farmers, we use these flowers to extract natural fragrance and create a new way of using them.
In 2025, we use yaezakura grown in Odawara, Isehara, and Atsugi. In addition to flowers provided by farmers, some are carefully hand-picked by volunteers.
To pursue a more refined cherry blossom scent, the flowers are treated soon after harvest and then processed by solvent extraction at a specialized laboratory. Each year, we improve our method—using petals only in 2023, whole flowers in 2024, and enhanced extraction methods in 2025.
This absolute contains components such as coumarin and benzaldehyde, giving a soft and sweet scent like sakura mochi. Experience this one-of-a-kind fragrance that evokes the gentle warmth of spring in Japan.
