[citation needed] In Japan, it is also known as hiba (ひば),[2] among many regional variations: asunaro is called ate (貴, 阿天) in Ishikawa,[3] atebi on Sado Island,[4] among other names.

Thujopsis is a medium to large evergreen tree, reaching up to 40 m tall and 1.5 m trunk diameter, with red-brown bark which peels in vertical strips.

The leaves are arranged in decussate pairs, scale-like, 3–10 mm long, glossy green above, and marked with vivid white stomatal bands below; they have a distinctive thick, almost fleshy texture.

A characteristic extractive, a natural product named as thujaplicinol, has been found in this species, mostly in its needles, outer bark and xylem.

There are two varieties: The asunaro is a valued ornamental tree both in its native Japan, where it is commonly planted around temples as well as in gardens, and also in Europe and North America.