Shimada in Shizuoka Prefecture was once known as the “city of trees” for its active lumber industry thanks to the lush green forests along the valley of the Oi River that runs through the city. However, demand for wood has declined in recent years. Kikori’s Tsumiki Land, a set of wooden blocks, was produced using local hinoki cypress in hope of creating more opportunities for children to play with natural, wooden toys. While most foreign-made wooden blocks use broadleaf trees such as beech and maple, which are hardwood, this company uses local hinoki cypress wood. The blocks’ edges were smoothed by hand so that children can use them without worry of injury on sharp edges. These lightweight blocks have a unique soft texture. Kikori’s Tsumiki Land is a toy that conveys the manufacturer’s consideration for locally sourced trees and children.