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

by Kiyoko Morita

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 of The 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.

Genres: Nonfiction, Japanese Literature, History, Japan

144 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1992

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick yet informative read about the history and culture of incense in Japan. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about incense games and thinking of ways I could interpret Kodoh for my own amusement. The book is a not very subtle advertisement for Shoyeido incense near its end, though I have no problem with that since their incense is super good. If only I could still mail the free sample card offered at the end of the library book!

[Samuel Moss · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice little book that gives a very broad overview of Kohdo and incense in Japan. There are some disappointing bits: it never goes into any real depth and reads at times like an advertisement for the Japanese incense company that partnered in writing the book. There is a good bibliography at the end however and I look forward to reading some of those books in the future.

[Pualani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the the book that I would take to a deserted island. I am reading, rereading, and falling in love with it again and again.

[Kenneth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Book of Incense is a compact introduction to the art of Japanese incense and the long history of incense appreciation in Japan. Morita discusses the origins of Japanese incense, details varieties and the practice of the incense ceremony. I especially appreciate the insight into the cultural context of incense appreciation