Japanese Ambiance Fragrance

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Ambiance Fragrance

In Japan, room fragrances such as incense and candles are used to welcome guests into the home, during relaxation time, or to eliminate cooking odors. Our collection includes room candles and incenses made from natural fragrances like Hinoki, Hiba, and Kusunoki, known for their stress-reducing effects.

The culture of scent in Japan began in 595 AD when a piece of driftwood washed ashore. When islanders burned the wood, it released an indescribably exquisite fragrance. Astonished, they presented the driftwood to Empress Suiko, and Prince Shotoku, who was the regent at that time, identified it as the rare treasure "Agarwood." This event, recorded in the Nihon Shoki, marks the first description of fragrant wood in Japan and the origin of Japanese fragrance culture, which has evolved over the centuries into incense for prayer (such as incense sticks and ceremonial incense), fragrances for lifestyle (like perfumed woods and kneaded incense), and eventually the art of Kodo.

At Millennium Gallery Japan, we offer products from KITOWA, established in 2018. KITOWA carries forward the tradition of Japanese cultural fragrances, while innovating new cultural scents. It has a background from a historic Japanese incense leading company that has preserved the traditional fragrance-making techniques, as well as the history and culture of scents, for over 450 years since the 16th century. Bring the traditional Japanese wood fragrances into your home and experience the elegance of Japan's natural beauty.

The Benefits and Recommended Uses of Japanese Incense

Japanese incense has long been cherished as an item that enriches daily life. The benefits of its fragrance bring relaxation to both mind and body, and play a role in maintaining a comfortable space. Here, we introduce in detail the main benefits and usage scenes.

Benefits of Japanese Incense

  • Relaxation Effects: Japanese incense has a relaxing effect that calms the mind. The scent of fragrant woods such as hinoki and sandalwood stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and reduces stress. In particular, using it during meditation, yoga, or bath time can refresh both mind and body.
  • Improved Concentration: When you want to improve concentration, agarwood and citrus scents are effective. The gentle fragrance clears the head and improves efficiency when working or studying.
  • Deodorizing and Air Purification: The natural ingredients of fragrant wood have the effect of deodorizing and purifying the air. It removes unpleasant odors caused by cooking or humidity, creating a clean and comfortable space.
  • Insect Repellent Effect: Especially in summer or humid seasons, incense based on fragrant wood can also be used as an insect repellent. Scents such as agarwood and kyara contain ingredients that insects dislike.
  • Deodorizing and Air Purification: The natural ingredients of fragrant wood have the effect of deodorizing and purifying the air. It removes unpleasant odors caused by cooking or humidity, creating a clean and comfortable space.
  • Insect Repellent Effect: Especially in summer or humid seasons, incense based on fragrant wood can also be used as an insect repellent. Scents such as agarwood and kyara contain ingredients that insects dislike.

Recommended Usage Scenes for Japanese Incense

  • Welcoming Guests: Burning incense at the entrance or in the living room spreads a pleasant fragrance throughout the space, giving visitors the impression of being warmly welcomed. The calming scent of Japanese wood is particularly suitable for welcoming guests.
  • Creating a Relaxing Time: Incense is ideal for relaxing and unwinding from daily fatigue. Enjoying quiet reading time or bath time while burning sandalwood or lavender incense can be expected to refresh both mind and body.
  • Stress Relief and Mood Change: When you are tired from work or housework, the refreshing scent of citrus or mint is recommended. Even enjoying the fragrance for a short time can reset your mood and restore a positive feeling.
  • Deodorizing and Purifying the Space: After cooking or during humid seasons, you can use incense to keep the space clean. Woody and herbal scents condition the air in the room and create a comfortable living environment.

Japanese incense not only adds a pleasant scent to a space, but also has a positive effect on the mind and body. By devising ways to use different scents and considering the scene, you can bring further healing and comfort to your everyday life.

Choosing Japanese Incense: A Guide for Beginners

When choosing Japanese incense, it's important to consider the type of fragrance, shape, and the occasion or purpose for use. Here's a detailed guide to help you choose the perfect incense.

Choosing by Fragrance Type

The fragrance of incense greatly influences its relaxing effect and the atmosphere it creates. Choose from the following fragrance types according to your purpose:

  • Japanese Wood: Scents like hinoki cypress and camphor offer a sense of calm and luxury, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese inn's bath. Ideal for creating a relaxing space.
  • Agarwood: Traditional scents like sandalwood and agarwood create an elegant and tranquil atmosphere. Recommended for special occasions or meditation.
  • Citrus: Refreshing scents like yuzu and lemon are perfect for changing your mood or waking up in the morning.
  • Floral: The gorgeous and gentle fragrances of cherry blossoms and plum blossoms are suitable for enjoying the changing seasons or creating a soft atmosphere.
  • Herbal: Scents like lavender and rosemary, known for their calming effects, are ideal for stress relief and relaxation.

Choosing by Occasion

Choosing the right fragrance for the place and purpose is also important.

  • Living Room: For a space where family and guests gather, choose a calming and relaxing scent. Japanese wood or floral scents are recommended.
  • Bedroom: To promote sleep, herbal or agarwood incense is suitable. Lavender, in particular, is popular for its high relaxation effect.
  • Bathroom: A refreshing citrus scent is ideal. Recommended when you want to refresh yourself after a bath.
  • Study or Workspace: To improve concentration, choose citrus or mint scents. These refreshing scents will clear your head.

Considering Shape and Practicality

Incense comes in various shapes, and you can choose according to the place and occasion.

  • Stick: Easy to handle with a consistent burn, recommended for beginners.
  • Cone: Suitable for enjoying a strong fragrance in a short time.
  • Coil: Burns for a long time, making it convenient for use in large spaces.
  • Nerikoh (Kneaded Incense): Enjoy the fragrance using a special incense burner, creating a unique atmosphere.

Other Points to Note

  • Allergy Considerations: Even natural incense can cause allergic reactions in some people. Check the ingredients before purchasing.
  • Fire Safety: When using incense that requires a flame, never leave it unattended while burning, and use it in a heat-resistant area. Consider flameless diffusers or sachets as alternatives.

Fragrance adds color and comfort to everyday life. Choose incense that suits your preferences and lifestyle, and enjoy the Japanese incense culture.