Thuja standishii, commonly known as Japanese Thuja, is an evergreen tree native to mountain forests and often found in riparian zones in Japan. This species is a medium-sized conifer, typically reaching heights of 20–35 meters with a trunk diameter up to 1 meter. Its foliage, which forms in flat sprays, consists of scale-like leaves that are 2–4 mm long, presenting a matte green color on the upper side and narrow white stomatal bands on the underside. The cones are distinctive, starting as oval, yellow-green, and ripening to red-brown, measuring 6–12 mm long and 4–5 mm broad, expanding to 8 mm when open, with 6–10 overlapping scales.

Japanese Thuja is valued for its durable and waterproof wood, which emits an attractive scent, making it a significant timber tree in Japan. In cultivation, it is used for ornamental purposes, including urban planting, and as a specimen tree in large gardens. It is appreciated for its ease of maintenance and the textural quality of its foliage. Japanese Thuja requires full sun to part shade, medium water, and well-drained soils for optimal growth. While it is not known for serious pest or disease problems, it can suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0