Hand-Painted Japanese Candles - Plum Blossom (Size 3 Set of 2)

Warosoku and E-rosoku - Traditional Japanese Candles

The tradition of warosoku (Japanese candles) dates back to the Muromachi period. It reached its peak during the Edo period but began to decline in the Meiji era with the arrival of inexpensive Western paraffin wax, which became the common candle material.

Yet, the profound glow-fluctuating gently in size and motion-created by a wick made from washi paper wrapped with the pith of igusa (used in tatami mats) and wax extracted from the seeds of the haze tree (Japanese wax tree), continues to embody the spirit of wabi-sabi, a core of Japanese aesthetics. These candles remain essential today for religious rituals at shrines and temples, performances on kabuki stages, and presentations in tea ceremonies.

E-rosoku, or hand-painted candles, are said to have originated in the Edo period. In winter, when fresh flowers were hard to find, they were used as a substitute for floral offerings on Buddhist altars. As implied by the poetic phrase kashoku no ten (meaning the radiant light of a wedding), these candles were also used in joyous celebrations like weddings.

Please enjoy the spiritual glow and artistic charm of warosoku-an enduring treasure of Japanese culture.


"Noble Heart"
"Integrity"
"Loyalty"
"Pure Heart"



Be sure to secure the candle firmly in a holder. Keep away from flammable objects and avoid using it in unattended locations to prevent fire hazards.

Ensure the candleholder is dry before use, as moisture may cause the candle to crack or burst.

The wick, traditionally made from washi paper wrapped with igusa fiber, will lengthen after 20-30 minutes of use. Trim the wick at its center with scissors. Doing this when extinguishing as well will reduce ash scatter and make relighting easier.

Avoid using in windy areas. Strong winds can cause soot and wax runoff, preventing complete combustion.

Regular wick trimming ensures a cleaner, steadier burn and better relighting experience.