The Book of Incense: Enjoying the Traditional Art of Japanese Scents

Kiyoko Morita
ISBN: 978-4-7700-1557-0
Kodansha International
134 pag. hardcover 16 x 22 cm

Incense has a long history in Japan. At the ancient court, men and women alike scented their kimono, their rooms, and even their writing paper with signature blends of incense that admirers were sure to mention later in their love poems. Even today, Japanese incense is highly regarded for its subtlety and beauty. The Book of Incense is the first book available in English that focuses on the incense traditions of Japan including different ingredients, mixing blends and sampling various mixtures, traditional literary games involving incense Koh-do, the incense ceremony still performed today.

With the current popularity of aromatherapy and other uses of scent for relaxation and pleasure, this new trade paperback edition ofThe Book of Incense comes at a most opportune time. It is must reading for anyone who wants to gain a new awareness of the importance of scent, and learn how to make optimal use of the sense of smell in our everyday lives.