US: Available in March 2007 Incense has a long history in Japan. At the ancient court, men and women alike scented their kimono, their rooms, and even their writing paper with signature blends of incense that admirers were sure to mention later in their love poems. Even today, Japanese incense is highly regarded for its subtlety and beauty. Author Kiyoko Morita describes how to mix blends, and how to play traditional literary games involving incense. She also introduces koh-do, or the "incense ceremony," which enthusiasts still perform today. The Book of Incense is the first book available in English that focuses on the incense traditions of Japan. Its approach is broad and eclectic. Morita encourages us to choose from among the elements of Japanese olfactory history, and to borrow the parts we like and use them as we see fit. The Book of Incense fosters a new awareness of the importance of scent, and provides a fund of ideas for making optimal use of the sense of smell in our everyday lives.