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

Warosoku and E-rosoku - Traditional Japanese Candles

The tradition of warosoku (Japanese candles) dates back to the Muromachi period and flourished during the Edo period. However, it began to decline in the Meiji era due to the influx of inexpensive paraffin wax from the West, which became the standard candle material.

Still, the solemn glow-gently flickering and varying in size-produced by a wick made from washi paper wrapped with the pith of igusa (the same material used in tatami mats), and wax extracted from the nuts of the haze tree (Japanese wax tree), continues to reflect the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi. To this day, these candles are essential in the sacred spaces of shrines and temples, on kabuki stages, and in the tranquil settings of tea ceremonies.

E-rosoku, or hand-painted candles, were also used in the Edo period as floral offerings for Buddhist altars during the winter months, when fresh flowers were hard to come by. As suggested by the phrase kashoku no ten (radiance of the wedding), these candles were also used to celebrate auspicious occasions like weddings.

Please enjoy the sacred light and visual beauty of warosoku-an enduring cultural art of Japan.


"Dignity"
"Purity"
"Innocence and Preciousness"
"True Love"



Always secure the candle firmly in its holder. Keep it away from flammable materials and avoid using it unattended to prevent fire hazards.

Be sure to wipe away any moisture from the candleholder before use. Moisture can cause the candle to crack or burst.

Traditional warosoku use wicks made from washi paper wrapped with igusa fiber. After 20-30 minutes of burning, the wick will extend. Use scissors to trim it around the middle. Doing the same when extinguishing the flame helps prevent ash from scattering and makes relighting easier.

Use the candle in a location sheltered from wind. Strong wind can cause soot and melted wax overflow, hindering complete combustion.

Regular trimming of the wick ensures a clean burn and easier relighting.