Brooke Martin
Japanese candles, or wa-rousoku, have been an integral part of traditional Japanese life and are especially important during Buddhist ceremonies. They are made from plant-based wax, such as sumac wax, and traditional 'washi' paper, which produces less soot and wax drip compared to Western candles made from paraffin. Japanese candles are considered relatively expensive compared to Western candles due to the high cost of raw materials. The Japan candle market is expected to reach a projected revenue of $675.2 million by 2030, with votive candles being the largest revenue-generating product in 2024. While strong scents are not popular in Japan, and incense is commonly used, scented candles are becoming more popular as disposable income increases.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Annual revenue of the Japanese candle market | USD 415.3 million in 2024 |
| Projected annual revenue of the Japanese candle market by 2030 | USD 675.2 million |
| Annual growth rate of the Japanese candle market from 2025 to 2030 | 8.7% |
| Largest segment of the Japanese candle market in 2024 | Votive |
| Japan's share of the global candle market in 2024 | 3.0% |
| Type of wax used in Japanese candles | Sumac wax, vegetable fats and oils, wax from nuts of the Japanese wax tree |
| Type of wax used in Western candles | Paraffin wax derived from petroleum |
| Price comparison between Japanese and Western candles | Japanese candles are relatively more expensive |
| Popularity of scented candles in Japan | Not very popular due to preference for light fragrances or no scent |
| Availability of scented candles in Japan | Available but limited variety, mostly small candles |
| Use of candles in Japan | Special occasions, religious rituals, home décor, lighting, timekeeping |
| Unique features of Japanese candles | Traditional craftsmanship, plant-based wicks, less soot and wax drip, two colors (red and white) |
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What You'll Learn
Japanese candles are made from plant-based wax and traditional 'washi' paper
Japanese candles, or "wa-rousoku", have been an integral part of traditional Japanese life. They are used in Buddhist ceremonies and as offerings on significant days, such as Obon, Higan, memorial services, and monthly anniversary rites. Japanese candles are also used in tea ceremonies, night gatherings, and traditional Japanese theatre.
Japanese candles are made from plant-based wax and traditional washi paper. The wax is derived from the seeds of the haze tree, a deciduous tree in the sumac family. The use of haze seeds to produce Japanese candles is said to have begun in the Muromachi period (1336-1573 AD). The production of these candles involves using washi paper, which is rolled and wrapped with rush weeds and silk fibres to create the wick. This natural combination of materials results in a larger, brighter flame compared to paraffin candles and produces less soot, wax drip, and odour.
The craftsmanship of Japanese candle-making is a complex process that has been cherished by the Japanese people. The Isobe Rōsoku Shop in Okazaki, for example, has been preserving the tradition of warōsoku production for over 300 years. The use of plant-based wax and washi paper in Japanese candles reflects the country's preference for natural and organic materials.
Washi paper, an essential component of Japanese candles, is made from the bark of the gampi tree, the mistletoe shrub, or the paper mulberry bush. The production of washi paper is a meticulous process that involves stripping the bark, boiling it, and then mashing it into a pulp. The pulp is then mixed with water and poured onto a screen, creating a thin layer of paper that dries into washi. This paper is not only used for candle wicks but is also valued in various traditional Japanese arts and crafts.
The unique construction of Japanese candles, with their plant-based wax and washi paper wicks, contributes to their cultural significance and popularity in Japan. The use of natural ingredients ensures a brighter, more stable flame with reduced soot and odour, making them well-suited for religious rituals and traditional ceremonies. While some people in Japan express a desire for Western-style scented candles, the strong scents and fire risk associated with such candles are concerns for some Japanese residents.
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Japanese candles are more expensive than Western candles
Japanese candles, or "wa-rousoku", have a long history dating back to the Nara period (710-794 AD). Introduced alongside Buddhism, these traditional candles hold cultural and religious significance in Japan. Japanese candles are made from plant-based wax derived from the nuts of the Japanese wax tree, specifically the seeds of the "haze" tree, a type of sumac. This distinguishes them from Western candles, which are typically made from paraffin derived from petroleum.
The process of making Japanese candles is complex and labour-intensive. The raw materials, such as nuts, are challenging to source and prepare. The liquid wax is extracted from the nuts through steaming and pressing, followed by a two-year ageing process in a controlled environment to remove impurities. This time-consuming and intricate production method contributes to the higher cost of Japanese candles compared to Western ones.
Additionally, Japanese candles feature unique wicks made from traditional 'washi' paper and plant-based materials like dried rush. These wicks produce less soot and wax drip, enhancing the overall burning experience. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating these wicks further distinguish Japanese candles from their Western counterparts.
The cultural importance of Japanese candles cannot be overstated. They are integral to Buddhist ceremonies and practices and are used as offerings on significant days such as Obon, Higan, and memorial services. The low flame of a Japanese candle creates a relaxing atmosphere and holds symbolic value in interior spaces. Japanese candles are also used in traditional Japanese theatre, tea ceremonies, and night gatherings called "yobanashi".
In contrast, Western-style candles in Japan are considered rare, and strong scents are generally less popular in Japanese culture. Incense is often preferred for scenting rooms, and strong fragrances are viewed as masking odours rather than enhancing them. The higher price point of Japanese candles compared to Western candles may be influenced by the specialised production methods, cultural significance, and the use of organic, plant-based materials.
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Japanese candles are used in religious rituals and ceremonies
Japanese candles, known as "wa-rousoku", have been an integral part of traditional Japanese life. Introduced to Japan during the Nara period (710-794 AD), these candles hold cultural and religious significance in the country. Wa-rousoku are made using plant-based waxes, primarily derived from the seeds of the haze tree, a type of deciduous tree in the sumac family. The use of haze seeds in candle-making is believed to have originated during the Muromachi period (1336-1573 AD).
Japanese candles are especially important in Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. They are used as offerings on significant days such as Obon, Higan, memorial services, and monthly anniversary rites. The use of candles in these ceremonies is not just symbolic but also functional, as they provide illumination and create a calming atmosphere. It is considered essential to keep Japanese candles burning continuously during religious rituals, which has led to improvements in candle-making techniques over time.
The colour of the candles used in Japanese rituals holds significance. White candles, for instance, are typically used for everyday offerings on household altars, funerals, and memorial services. On the other hand, red candles, known as "shu-rousoku", are reserved for celebratory rituals and ceremonies such as New Year's, Obon, weddings, and the placement of a new altar in a home.
Japanese candles are also used in tea ceremonies, night gatherings called "yobanashi", and traditional Japanese theatre forms like Noh, Kyogen, and Kabuki. In tea ceremonies, these candles serve both lighting and timekeeping purposes. Additionally, there is a tradition of drawing pictures or illustrations of flowers and other designs on the sides of Japanese candles, known as "e-rousoku" or "picture candles". This practice originated from decorating Buddhist altars with flowers, and the drawings on the candles now often reflect the season or the favourite flowers of ancestors.
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Japanese candles are considered luxury items
Japanese candles, or "wa-rousoku", have a long history dating back to the Nara period (710-794 AD). Introduced alongside Buddhism, these traditional candles were initially made from beeswax, a rare and valuable material accessible only to the nobility. Over time, Japanese candle-making evolved to utilise pine resin and, later, plant-based waxes, particularly from the seeds of the "haze" tree, a type of sumac.
The use of Japanese candles peaked during the late Edo period (1745-1786 AD) and continued into the Meiji period (1868-1919 AD). During this time, wa-rousoku were considered luxury items, favoured by wealthy merchants and samurai families, while common people typically used rapeseed oil lamps for lighting.
Today, Japanese candles remain an integral part of traditional Japanese life, especially in Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. They are used as offerings on significant days such as Obon, Higan, memorial services, and monthly anniversary rites. The unique characteristics and craftsmanship of Japanese candles contribute to their cultural significance and popularity.
Japanese candles are known for their use of organic wax, such as sumac wax, and traditional wicks made from 'washi' paper, resulting in reduced soot and wax drip. The complex process of making Japanese candles involves steaming and pressing the raw wax of the kokomi fruit, followed by drying and ageing for two years in a controlled environment. The subsequent removal of impurities from the fats and oils results in a clean-burning, non-toxic candle with a low melting point.
The Japanese candle market is expected to reach a significant revenue of USD 675.2 million by 2030, reflecting the continued demand for these candles. The popularity of scented candles and the increase in disposable income have contributed to the growth of the market, with consumers willing to spend more on home décor items that offer both functionality and ambiance.
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Japanese people prefer incense over strongly scented candles
Japanese candles, or "wa-rousoku", have been an integral part of traditional Japanese life. They are used in Buddhist temples and household altars, as well as during funerals and memorial services. However, Japanese people seem to prefer incense over strongly scented candles.
Incense has been intertwined with Japanese culture and spiritual practices since the 6th century when it was introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks. Incense is used in various rituals and ceremonies, such as purification before battle and meditation. The daily burning of incense made from select fragrant woods and herbs became popular in Zen Buddhist temples and later in the homes of the middle and upper classes.
Japanese incense comes in a variety of fragrances, from traditional scents like sandalwood, agarwood, and aloeswood to more modern blends with floral, herbal, and fruity notes. The subtle scent and less smoky nature of Japanese incense make it a preferred choice for many. The incense-burning ritual is enhanced by the choice of burner, known as Kōro or Kooro, which comes in various styles, shapes, and materials.
In contrast, strong scents are not popular in Japan, and scented candles are considered an expensive luxury. Japanese people view scents more as a way to mask odours, preferring a light fragrance or no fragrance at all. The fire risk associated with candles and the potential toxicity of certain scents may also contribute to the preference for incense over strongly scented candles.
The Japanese candle market is expected to reach a projected revenue of US$675.2 million by 2030, with votive candles being the largest revenue-generating product in 2024. However, it is important to note that the revenue generated by the Japanese candle market accounts for only 3.0% of the global candle market in 2024.
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Frequently asked questions
Japanese candles, or "wa-rousoku", are popular in Japan due to their cultural significance and use in religious rituals. They are made from plant-based wax, such as sumac wax, and are known for producing less soot and wax drip than Western candles. Japanese candles are used in Buddhist temples, household altars, tea ceremonies, and traditional Japanese theatre.
Japanese candles are relatively expensive compared to Western candles due to the cost of securing raw materials. Japanese candles are made from plant-based wax, such as wax derived from nuts, while Western candles are typically made from paraffin, a cheaper alternative derived from petroleum.
Strong scents are generally not popular in Japan, and incense is more commonly used to fragrance a room. However, scented candles are gaining popularity in Japan, with companies like North Candles in Hokkaido offering scented soy candles.
Candles can be purchased at various retailers in Japan, including Amazon Japan, Zara Home, and Loft.
