This gift box contains three sets of eight matches each in scents Yuzu, Japanese Cypress and Sandalwood (24 matches total) and one burning pad. Each match has a burn time of approximately 10 minutes.

Matches of Harima utilizing the techniques coming from Europe, domestic production of matches started at the beginning of the Meiji period. Later, Japanese matches became so popular as export goods, thanks to the quality, that match manufacturing developed as a local industry of Hyogo, including Harima which was blessed with marine transportation facilities. Even today, the region contributes to roughly 70% of the domestic production volume. Incense of Awaji Island Incense manufacturing technique was brought to Awaji Island by craftsmen of Sakai in 1850 during the last days of the Tokugawa shogunate. Thanks to the westerly winds, which are characteristics of the island and ideal for drying incense, Awaji Island has become the biggest incense manufacturer in Japan, responsible for about 70% of the domestic production volume today.

Instructions: Please note that incense matches are delicate. To light, place your forefinger over the match head and strike. Wait for the flame to reach the incense, about 1/4" of the way down. It will extinguish itself around this point or you can gently blow it out. Place the smoking incense on the burning mat and enjoy. Matches breaking during lighting is not common and becomes less frequent after one gets a feel for it, however if breakage does occur, light both sides with a lighter and proceed as instructed above.

Made in Japan.