Japan: Incense

Japanese incense has a long history. It was introduced to Japan from China, along with Buddhism, in the year 538. From that point on, incense would become an important facet of Japanese culture. Many of the current Japanese incense companies have been in existence for more than 300 years. Currently, 70% of all of Japan's incense is manufactured on a small island south of Osaka called Awaji Island.

There are an incredible variety of incense holders!  From the very plain to the ornate. 

Main ingredients in Japanese incense

•  Agarwood  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agarwood

•  Sandalwood

•  Borneo Camphor

•  Benzoin   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gum_benzoin

•  Frankincense

•  Clove

•  Star Anise

•  Rhubarb

•  Cinnamon

•  Licorice

•  Patchouli    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patchouli

Images: http://www.oller.net/ingredie.htm
http://www.ecclecstacy.com/images/rokudaishu.jpg
http://murata.ca/images/incense&holder.jpg
http://cdn3.volusion.com/ymaxg.lfnas/v/vspfiles/photos/japaneseburner888-1.jpg?1372919414
http://www.samadhicushions.com/v/vspfiles/photos/S-5212-2.jpg
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/t1.0-0/c0.7.546.364/10001460_10152995718736808_1413139670_n.jpg

Text: Wikipedia