Leaf samples ofCryptomeria japonicaD. Don (and some other conifers) taken from various locations in Japan were analyzed for differences in the amount and elemental composition of their epicuticular wax. InC. japonicathe amount of wax per unit leaf mass was lower, and the C content of the wax relatively higher, than those of other species. The properties of the wax (amount, C and O contents) varied according to natural environmental factors such as altitude and exposure to volcanic acidic gases such as H2S, as well as branch height and leaf age within the tree. The amount of wax increased with leaf age (during the growing phase), altitude, branch height, and exposure to the gases, while the C content of wax decreased and the O content increased, except in the case of altitude, where they showed an opposite change. These findings suggest different alterations in wax properties under the effects of water stress (on high branches and at locations with a low rain factor), exposure to noxious gases, and strong UV radiation at high altitude.