The Art of Incense – Inside Nippon Kodo Studio

Exploring the art of incense making is a true labor of love that requires a deep understanding of the senses and an unwavering commitment to quality. This is precisely what Nippon Kodo embodies as one of Japan’s oldest producers of incense.

Nippon Kodo’s products have unique fragrances that are the result of closely guarded preparation skills that are over 400 years old, combined with the sensitivities of modern perfumers. These skills were inherited through writings on the mixture of aromatic woods by Takai Juemon, an incense preparer who supplied the Emperor of Japan in the Tensho era (late 16th century). Today, perfumers with Japan’s best noses and instincts interpret and evolve that tradition to create exquisite fragrances that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Becoming a fully qualified incense craftsman takes a very long time. Skilled craftsmen must sense very slight differences in daily weather and air conditions, as well as in natural aromatic materials. They must also have sensitive hands capable of making tiny adjustments to the amount of moisture used in kneading. Incense craftsmen have acute senses and gentle hands that are essential to the entire production process.

The process of creating Nippon Kodo’s Elemense series is a fascinating blend of traditional Japanese techniques and modern design elements. The raw materials used to create the fragrances are carefully chosen to ensure the highest quality and purity. Soft, freshly kneaded incense cannot be cut easily, and incense bends and shrinks during drying, making it delicate, brittle and easily broken when finished. An experienced craftsman carefully finishes each product with attention to all aspects of the production process: kneading, cutting, selection, and rolling.

During our recent visit to the Nippon Kodo studio, we were privileged to witness firsthand the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each incense stick. It’s an experience that is truly mesmerizing and inspiring.

Nippon Kodo’s unwavering commitment to excellence is truly inspiring, and we are proud to offer the Elemense series in our store. We hope that you too will be captivated by the beauty of these exceptional fragrances and the skill that goes into creating them.

Thank you for your continued support of Nippon Kodo and our store. We look forward to sharing more exciting news and products with you in the future.

Click here to purchase Incense from the Elemense Series ⟶

Click here to purchase Incense from the Elemense Series ⟶

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