Incense is made from aromatic plant material, often combined with essential oils. Incense’s name is derived from the Latin verb incendere, which means “to burn”. When Incense is  burned it releases a fragrant smoke, renowned for its calming, spiritual powers and used widely in religious ceremonies, aromatherapy, meditation and for creating a spiritual atmosphere. It is also used in ritual purification but can be used around the home to create a calm, relaxing environment.

Japanese Incense is widely regarded as the best in the world and is famed for the variety of ingredients used in its manufacture, these include Agarwood, Sandalwood, Borneo Camphor, Benzoin, Frankincense, Clove, Star Anise, Rhubarb, Cinnamon, Licorice and Patchouli. Kyara, a form of Agarwood is literally worth more than its weight in gold.

Incense Burning

When was Incense First Used?

Incense was first used in China in Neolithic times and came into more widespread use around 2000BC. It was also used by the ancient Egyptian’s, where the Pharaohs were known to use incense whilst praying and reading, as were the Babylonians.

How Did Incense Come to Japan?

Incense was first brought to Japan from China by Buddhist Monks with the arrival of Buddhism, where it plays an important role in ceremonies and rituals to purify the atmosphere.

As incense became more popular, specialist manufacturers started to make their own Incense and an industry grew up making high quality incense using the best traditional ingredients, combining ancient and modern techniques.

Why Did Incense Become So Popular in Japan?

Buddhism initially made incense popular in Japan, where it was used to purify the atmosphere, creating sacred space for religious ceremonies and performing rites.

However as the Japanese began to realise how fragrant incense was and how its scent could create ambiance and tranquillity in a room, it became much more popular and widely used.

14th century samurai warriors were known to use incense to scent their helmets and armour in the belief that it would make them invincible.

By the 15th and 16th centuries Incense began to become popular with the middle and upper classes in Japan and a wider range of people began to use it on a regular basis.

As its popularity and appreciation of incense grew, an increasing number of people and groups began to celebrate the ‘art of incense’ by the Koh-Do Ceremony (more of that later).

How Is Incense Used Today

Incense is still used by many faiths around the world as part of their sacred ceremonies, including Buddhists and Christian churches, where it is used for special services, e.g. Confirmations, or Saints days. An incense shaker is often carried by the clergy to distribute the Incense around the Church so that all members of the congregation can take in the aroma.

It is often used in meditation and aromatherapy however it is widely used by people in their homes or offices, where it provides a beautiful scent and calming environment.

The Japanese Shop has developed a new and exclusive range of organic Japanese Incense, which has been made with meticulously blended fragrance, using traditional manufacturing methods. This Exclusive Japanese Incense is amazing for use in aromatherapy or around the home and as it is beautifully presented in stylish packaging, it is also ideal for affordable gifts.

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Visit our website to order now and be sure to keep an eye out for our brand new dolls, which will be making their debut shortly!

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You’re welcome Sandra – glad you’re happy with everything

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Our new prices are as follows:

UK standard – £3.60 (£3+VAT)
UK Next Day – £7.20 (£6+VAT)
EU – £8.40 (£7+VAT)
Rest of the World – No change

Free delivery for UK orders over £50
Free delivery for EU orders over £100

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Throughout the day, there will be a variety of Japanese cultural demonstrations and activities to raise both awareness and proceeds for charities in the affected area. One of which is Aid For Japan, a charity for orphans of the tsunami.

Entry Prices:

Japanese Society Members – £5
Non-Members – £7
Entry price includes Japanese Food!

Confirmed activities:

- Traditional Japanese Dance demonstrations
- Ikebana (Flower Arranging)
- Shamisen Performance
- Japanese Songs performed on Bagpipes
- Kendo Demonstration
- Raffle
- Traditional Tea Ceremony

The Japanese Shop has sponsored a number of prizes to be raffled on the day – click here to visit the official Facebook event page.

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Years later in 1949, after being declared a national day in Japan, it was decided to celebrate the day on the same date as in the US. Just like many other countries around the world, children present their mother’s with gifts on Mothering Sunday. Although sending a card is not common, flowers are, with red carnations being a particular favourite to give on the day, symbolising purity and sweetness.

In Japan, Mother’s Day is also associated with some other interesting and unusual culinary delights in the form of egg-based dishes Tamagoyaki, a rectangular Japanese omelette, and Chawanmushi, a custard egg, usually served together with chicken or shrimp.

If however, you are looking for some more modern day Japanese inspired Mother’s Day Gifts, you can browse through our handpicked selection online. Our range caters for all budgets and includes our FREE Japanese Gift Wrapping service. From Lucky Cats and Kokeshi Dolls to Japanese Prints and Kimono, we have something for every mum out there!

Happy Mother’s Day from The Japanese Shop!

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We have a selection of new incense on the way too and have just topped up our food stock, click here to have a look.

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Our greeting cards are blank inside, however, for an extra special touch, we can write a message in the card for you in either English or Japanese.

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One of which is a selection of fabulous Japanese kitchen knives, which will be exclusive to The Japanese Shop and so good that when you have used one you will never use another knife again!

More updates to follow soon!

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