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Activity Information
Sakai, the city of incense
The incense that was brought into Japan for religious purposes found its way into the daily lives of 9th century nobility and the custom of applying the aromatic incense to clothes, rooms and even hair and face was born. As a result, applying incense to clothing became a form of self-expression.
Later during the 17th century the manufacturing method of stick incense was brought to Japan from China. The first area to produce this new stick incense in Japan was Sakai, which grew into the biggest incense producer by the 19th century.
This product lets you make your own incense in Sakai, a city deeply connected with incense.
Later during the 17th century the manufacturing method of stick incense was brought to Japan from China. The first area to produce this new stick incense in Japan was Sakai, which grew into the biggest incense producer by the 19th century.
This product lets you make your own incense in Sakai, a city deeply connected with incense.
Making sustainable matcha-scented pressed incense
We have prepared a special incense which incorporates tea leaves (upcycled leaves not fit for direct consumption) into the mixture, a perfect fit for Sakai, the birthplace of both Sen no Rikyu and the tea culture.
We will make a few different types of incense by pressing the incense mixture into a mould shaped like sakura cherry blossoms, plum flowers or maple leaves. You can then put the finished incense into a wooden box and take it home with you! By simply warming up the incense you can enjoy the fragrance of tea at home.
If you wish, you can also purchase a Sakai-yaki incense burner separately on the day of the experience.
We will make a few different types of incense by pressing the incense mixture into a mould shaped like sakura cherry blossoms, plum flowers or maple leaves. You can then put the finished incense into a wooden box and take it home with you! By simply warming up the incense you can enjoy the fragrance of tea at home.
If you wish, you can also purchase a Sakai-yaki incense burner separately on the day of the experience.
A moment of respite with tea and sweets at a mansion dating back to early 17th century
After your experience you can enjoy a little relaxing break whilst exploring the local tea culture in true Sakai-esque fashion. The Yamaguchi Residence where your experience takes place is also designated as a protected tangible cultural asset. It is in its original form as first built in the early 17th century and the post-experience tea break will also take place within its premises. The unique atmosphere reminiscent of the lifestyle of its original owners is definitely a precious part of the experience.
Explore the historical part of Sakai after your experience
The Yamaguchi Residence is not only an important cultural asset, it is also a popular tourist spot. We highly recommend exploring it more in-depth after your experience.
It is located in close proximity to the historical area of Sakai, which is also rich in various historical sites and spots making it perfect for a little stroll after your experience concludes. Furthermore, there is a tram stop in the vicinity where you can hop on the tram going through Sakai thus enabling you to explore a wider area.
It is located in close proximity to the historical area of Sakai, which is also rich in various historical sites and spots making it perfect for a little stroll after your experience concludes. Furthermore, there is a tram stop in the vicinity where you can hop on the tram going through Sakai thus enabling you to explore a wider area.
