Haruka Incense was created from a deep desire to share the art of Japanese incense-making with the world. After years of traveling and working in various countries, I felt a growing connection to my Japanese heritage, especially the tradition of incense. This passion led me to start Haruka Incense, where I aim to bring the beauty, serenity, and ancient wisdom of Japanese incense to people everywhere.

The Haruka Incense logo is based on an ancient calligraphic style of the Japanese kanji “遥” (Haruka), meaning “distant” or “far away.” The flowing lines of the logo evoke the graceful movement of incense smoke rising and swirling in the air. I adore this design because it captures the essence of what incense represents—transcendence, calm, and a journey that connects the past with the present.

The wooden carving of this logo was created by a master calligrapher, a woman with decades of experience in the art. She hand-carved it specifically for my brand, using her deep understanding of traditional Japanese calligraphy. When you visit my atelier, you’ll find this wooden engraving proudly displayed, offering a tangible connection to the spirit of Haruka Incense.

At a time when I was feeling overworked and mentally drained, a friend invited me to a Zuko (incense powder) workshop. Surrounded by the soothing fragrances of natural ingredients, many of which are also used as medicinal herbs, I discovered that each material had its own healing qualities. As I blended the ingredients and crafted my own Tuko, I felt my energy returning, almost as if the scents were rejuvenating my spirit. Later, when I applied the incense to my hands, I noticed I could focus better at work and even sleep more deeply. That simple workshop transformed the way I approached balance and wellness in my life.

After that experience, I decided to study incense-making under a master. Over the years, I learned the craft in great depth—what makes a scent truly “good,” not just for its fragrance, but for its power to calm the mind and refresh the body. My studies also introduced me to Buddhism, and I came to understand the deep connection between incense and spiritual practice in Japanese culture. This led me to explore temples across Japan, where incense is a central part of Buddhist rituals. Through these experiences, I discovered the profound role that incense plays in connecting us to something greater.

I began by teaching incense-making to small groups at my home studio in Japan. As word spread, I started offering workshops at larger events, and to date, I’ve shared the art of incense with over 1,000 people. Although I’m not a native English speaker, I’m comfortable guiding English-speaking participants through the process of incense-making. If you have any questions during the workshop, please don’t hesitate to ask—I’m here to help you discover the beauty of Japanese incense.

Above all, I want every foreign visitor to Japan to experience Omotenashi, our unique form of heartfelt hospitality. In my own travels abroad, I was always warmly welcomed and supported by the people I met, and those moments of kindness made my journeys unforgettable. I want to offer the same warmth to you during your time in Japan. Whether you’re learning about incense or exploring the culture, I’m here to ensure your experience is as meaningful and enjoyable as possible.