[Awaji, Hyogo] Learn about the history and basics of fragrance from a fragrance master in this incense town that has been around since the Edo period, and create your own original incense by choosing the scent and shape.

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• Approximately 70% of domestic incense is produced on Awaji Island. The Ei district, among other areas, is home to many manufacturers, and the pleasant aroma of incense fills the air as you walk through the town. It has even been selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment's "Top 100 Fragrant Landscapes." Visit an incense manufacturer founded in 1905 that continues to preserve traditional handmade production. Learn about the history of Awaji Island incense, its fragrance, and the manufacturing process from a master incense maker called a "koshi." After learning the basics of incense from a master incense maker called a "koshi," who will explain the history and fragrance of Awaji Island incense production, as well as the traditional manufacturing process, it's time to make your own incense! Choose the color of the incense, then knead the ingredients and water in a mortar. Blend your favorite fragrances and knead again, then shape using a cutting mold. Take it home and let it dry thoroughly for about a week until your incense is ready! You can experience making your own fragrance at home. [Experience Schedule] 11:00 Meeting point Observing the traditional incense manufacturing process at Awaji Umekundo Ei Factory (30 minutes) 11:30 Learning about the history of incense and knowledge of fragrance from a Koh-shi (producer) and experiencing incense making (80 minutes) 12:50 Scheduled end
• [Awaji Island, the birthplace of incense making: Ei]
• Ei, also known as Eiura, was the most prosperous port on Awaji Island, with a thriving shipping industry (maritime transport and commerce) since the early Edo period. However, in winter, the port is often closed due to seasonal winds, making it impossible to work. Men are away from home for about six months to work away from home. As a way to combat the winter's decline, incense production was suitable for women to do as a side job, and Eiura's climate and location were ideal for bringing in raw materials and transporting products, so incense production began.
• [Is it a coincidence? The history of fragrance]
• According to the Nihon Shoki, during the reign of Empress Suiko (Prince Shotoku's aunt), in 595 AD, a local resident casually burned a piece of wood that had washed up on the shores of Awaji Island, and a fragrant aroma wafted through the air. The resident quickly pulled the wood from the fire and presented it to the Imperial family. It is said that the Kannon statue at Horyuji Temple was carved out of this fragrant wood. The fragrant wood is still treasured today, and is enshrined as the sacred object of worship at Kareki Shrine.