"A Cultural History of Japan as Seen through Incense" When did the history of incense begin in Japan?What kinds of fragrances did the aristocrats of the Heian period create?How were samurai warlords connected to incense culture?What is Genji-kō? Written by the twelfth-generation heir of a long-established Kyoto incense house founded in the Edo period, this book traces Japanese history century by century through the lens of fragrance and incense culture. Featuring numerous full-color illustrations of elegant incense utensils, historical documents, and other cultural treasures, the book offers both visual appeal and historical insight. An appendix includes complete charts of Genji-kō, Keizu-kō (Genealogical Incense Patterns), and Sanshu-kō (Three-Category Incense Patterns). Text is presented in both Japanese and English. Key FeaturesA unique exploration of Japanese cultural history centered on the theme of incense and fragrance.Presented in both Japanese and English, making it accessible to readers in Japan and abroad who are interested in Japanese fragrance culture.Richly illustrated with full-color photographs and historical materials that enhance understanding and appreciation. About the Author Masataka Hata Born in Kyoto in 1954. After graduating from Doshisha University and spending a year in the United Kingdom, he joined the long-established incense company Shoyeido. In 1998, he became President and Representative Director of the company. He has been actively involved in lectures and cultural activities both in Japan and abroad to promote and preserve incense culture. His publications include Kōseiwa (Tankosha) and Kō Sansai (Tokyo Shoseki). About the Translator Michael Jamentz Born in the United States in 1948. After completing doctoral studies at Harvard University, he moved to Kyoto in 1995. While serving as a part-time lecturer at institutions including Kyoto University, he has engaged in research on medieval Japanese literature and worked extensively as an English translator.
