{"id":17551,"date":"2025-03-11T04:16:02","date_gmt":"2025-03-11T08:16:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/?p=17551"},"modified":"2025-06-19T10:46:40","modified_gmt":"2025-06-19T14:46:40","slug":"a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/","title":{"rendered":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"17551\" class=\"elementor elementor-17551\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-df1f877 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"df1f877\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;shape_divider_bottom&quot;:&quot;arrow&quot;,&quot;shape_divider_bottom_negative&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-shape elementor-shape-bottom\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-negative=\"true\">\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 700 10\" preserveAspectRatio=\"none\">\n\t<path class=\"elementor-shape-fill\" d=\"M360 0L350 9.9 340 0 0 0 0 10 700 10 700 0\"\/>\n<\/svg>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b642928 elementor-widget elementor-widget-page-title\" data-id=\"b642928\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;align&quot;:&quot;center&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"page-title.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"hfe-page-title hfe-page-title-wrapper elementor-widget-heading\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tA Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki  \n\t\t\t<\/h1 > \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-78fa15b hfe-post-info-layout-inline elementor-widget elementor-widget-post-info-widget\" data-id=\"78fa15b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"post-info-widget.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"hfe-post-info-inline hfe-post-info-items hfe-post-info\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"hfe-post-info-item elementor-repeater-item-a0b20f7 hfe-post-info-inline-item\" itemprop=\"datePublished\"> \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/2025\/03\/11\/\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"hfe-post-info-icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"far fa-calendar-check\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"hfe-post-info-text hfe-post-info__item hfe-post-info__item--type-date\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMarch 11, 2025\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"hfe-post-info-item elementor-repeater-item-0a88ac9 hfe-post-info-inline-item\" itemprop=\"author\"> \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/author\/admin\/\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"hfe-post-info-icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"far fa-user-circle\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"hfe-post-info-text hfe-post-info__item hfe-post-info__item--type-author\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAdmin\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-be4fe1a e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"be4fe1a\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8136ef1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"8136ef1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Exploring the Art and Tradition of Japanese Incense<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-24b065b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"24b065b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\">Nestled just 90 minutes from Tokyo in the serene countryside of Ishioka, Ibaraki Prefecture lies the historic Komamura <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW191170138 BCX8\">Seimeido<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\">&#8211; an incense factory. This family-run establishment has perfected the art of making <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW191170138 BCX8\">Suisha<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\"> Senkou (<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW191170138 BCX8\">\u6c34\u8eca\u7dda\u9999<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW191170138 BCX8\">), or &#8220;waterwheel incense,&#8221; using a traditional waterwheel-powered mill to process cedar leaves. Located at the foot of Mount Tsukuba, surrounded by lush forests and rice paddies, the factory offers a rare glimpse into a centuries-old craft.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW191170138 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e23c6c e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3e23c6c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-09a15a9 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"09a15a9\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bff2434 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"bff2434\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What is incense?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3599ca2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3599ca2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW252166487 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW252166487 BCX8\">Incense has been used for yes, either in a religious setting, for spiritual reasons, or for aroma reasons. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW252166487 BCX8\">It&#8217;s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW252166487 BCX8\"> a material shaped like a stick that tends to be made of plants, flowers, woods, and herbs. When burning, it gives off a lovely scent that fills the room with a smoky aroma<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW252166487 BCX8\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW252166487 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-686f253 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"686f253\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b15a07e elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"b15a07e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense-1024x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-17558\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/incense.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1f1f9a4 e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"1f1f9a4\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-62a4385 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"62a4385\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-69210e8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"69210e8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The history of Japanese incense. <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5849ce3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5849ce3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Originating from India and China, incense made its way to Japan in the 6th century alongside Buddhism. The Japanese Imperial Court claimed incense as their own, making it an essential part of life at court. It became a sensation in Japan, with people welcoming the charms of incense, writing poems about the aromas, and gathering in the court garden to enjoy the burning sensation.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">After years of war, Japan turned to making their incense using local sources like cedar and lavender and homegrown fragrances from plants. Today, incense is used primarily without any religious connotation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-092e4ae e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"092e4ae\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c4a7105 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"c4a7105\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ee5645 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"6ee5645\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf-1024x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-17557\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cedar-leaf.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9c95f8a e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"9c95f8a\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1c4176f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1c4176f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Why Cedar Leaf Incense Matters <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-691b53c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"691b53c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\">Cedar leaf incense is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is prized for its calming and purifying properties. At Komamura <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW230528842 BCX8\">Seimeido<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\">, the incense-making process <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\">remains<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\"> a harmonious blend of tradition and nature. The gentle rhythm of the waterwheel and the earthy scent of cedar leaves create an atmosphere of <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW230528842 BCX8\">tranquility<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW230528842 BCX8\">, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW230528842 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d12e918 e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"d12e918\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5f70356 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5f70356\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The Journey to Ishioka <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-49379c0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"49379c0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Travelling from Tokyo to the Komamura Seimeido factory is convenient and scenic. Hop on the JR Joban Line from Tokyo Station, and in approximately an hour and 20 minutes, you&#8217;ll arrive at Ishioka Station. From there, a short taxi ride or local bus can take you to the factory.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you plan to explore the iconic Mount Tsukuba, you can take a bus directly from Tsukuba Station (accessible via the Tsukuba Express Line from Akihabara) to the mountain&#8217;s base.\u00a0 Combine your visit to the incense factory with a hike or cable car ride for breathtaking views of the Kanto Plain.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f6baa90 e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"f6baa90\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1547ddb e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"1547ddb\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-405f994 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"405f994\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">More About Ishioka and Its Surrounding Areas\u202f  <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7d86c05 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7d86c05\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW59535888 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW59535888 BCX8\">Beyond the sights and smells of the Komamura <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW59535888 BCX8\">Seimeido<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW59535888 BCX8\"> factory, Ishioka offers a wide array of experiences:\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW59535888 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mount Tsukuba<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">: Known as one of Japan&#8217;s &#8220;Three Holy Mountains,&#8221; this is a favourite among hikers and sightseers. Visit the ancient Tsukubasan Shrine, nestled at the mountain&#8217;s base, before ascending for panoramic views.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Kasama Inari Shrine<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">: A short train ride away, this stunning shrine is one of Japan&#8217;s three largest Inari shrines. It&#8217;s incredibly vibrant during festivals and features a picturesque setting with red torii gates and traditional architecture.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Local Cuisine<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">: Check out Ibaraki&#8217;s regional specialties, from soba noodles, to natto, a delicacy made of fermented soy beans.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ishioka Festival<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">: If you&#8217;re in the area in September, make sure you catch the Ishioka Festival, which is famous for its colourful floats and lion dances.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-53d13f3 e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"53d13f3\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-85c376f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"85c376f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">A Fun Historical Fact <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4ab0353 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4ab0353\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW226114540 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW226114540 BCX8\">Did you know that incense was once part of the samurai tradition? <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW226114540 BCX8\">Supposedly, samurai<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW226114540 BCX8\"> used incense to calm their minds before battle and the prospect of death. This practice highlights incense&#8217;s powerful role in Japanese culture, not only <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW226114540 BCX8\">as a way to<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW226114540 BCX8\"> purify spaces but also as a means of preparing the spirit for intense challenges.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW226114540 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4d5fa34 e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4d5fa34\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9479d98 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"9479d98\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3bcd01c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3bcd01c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Japanese Incense and Tea Ceremonies.\u200b<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-91c01a7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"91c01a7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In Japan, incense appreciation is known as Kodo, much like their traditional tea ceremony, Shodo.\u202fThese two rituals have been intertwined for years, with incense purifying the air in the room. Ensuring that tea ceremony guests enter a space free from impurities or evil spirits.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sometimes, incense can be used to time the tea ceremony; when the stick or cone finishes burning, the ceremony naturally concludes. In other cases, the Tea Master, who has mastered the art of the ceremony and is responsible for creating a calm and motivated atmosphere, burns incense in preparation for the guests&#8217; arrival. When the incense is done burning, the ceremony is ready to begin. In Japan, the tea master is called. &#8220;Chajin&#8221;.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1464a97 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-child\" data-id=\"1464a97\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-13f4e32 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"13f4e32\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1-1024x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-17560\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/tea-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b28c4cd e-flex e-con-boxed wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-equal-height-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"b28c4cd\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-866acfa elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"866acfa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Bring the Japanese Tradition Home <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d5c3fbc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d5c3fbc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you&#8217;re intrigued by the art of cedar leaf incense but can&#8217;t make the journey to Ishioka, don&#8217;t worry\u2014you can still experience this unique tradition from the comfort of your home. Mobal, in partnership with <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">GoodsfromJapan.com<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">, is offering an exclusive discount on cedar leaf incense. Simply use the code <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202fF32WFF0NZPFC <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">at checkout to enjoy 1 or 2 boxes of aromatic Japanese heritage with a discount of 10%. Whether you visit in person or shop online, cedar leaf incense offers a calming connection to Japan&#8217;s rich cultural past.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2a533fb elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"2a533fb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.goodsfromjapan.com\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">click here for GoodsfromJapan<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki March 11, 2025 Admin Exploring the Art and Tradition of Japanese Incense Nestled just 90 minutes from Tokyo in the serene countryside of Ishioka, Ibaraki Prefecture lies the historic Komamura Seimeido- an incense factory. This family-run establishment has perfected the art of making Suisha Senkou (\u6c34\u8eca\u7dda\u9999), or &#8220;waterwheel incense,&#8221; using a traditional waterwheel-powered mill to process cedar leaves. Located at the foot of Mount Tsukuba, surrounded by lush forests and rice paddies, the factory offers a rare glimpse into a centuries-old craft.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 What is incense? Incense has been used for yes, either in a religious setting, for spiritual reasons, or for aroma reasons. It&#8217;s a material shaped like a stick that tends to be made of plants, flowers, woods, and herbs. When burning, it gives off a lovely scent that fills the room with a smoky aroma.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The history of Japanese incense. Originating from India and China, incense made its way to Japan in the 6th century alongside Buddhism. The Japanese Imperial Court claimed incense as their own, making it an essential part of life at court. It became a sensation in Japan, with people welcoming the charms of incense, writing poems about the aromas, and gathering in the court garden to enjoy the burning sensation.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 After years of war, Japan turned to making their incense using local sources like cedar and lavender and homegrown fragrances from plants. Today, incense is used primarily without any religious connotation.\u00a0 \u00a0 Why Cedar Leaf Incense Matters Cedar leaf incense is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is prized for its calming and purifying properties. At Komamura Seimeido, the incense-making process remains a harmonious blend of tradition and nature. The gentle rhythm of the waterwheel and the earthy scent of cedar leaves create an atmosphere of tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 The Journey to Ishioka Travelling from Tokyo to the Komamura Seimeido factory is convenient and scenic. Hop on the JR Joban Line from Tokyo Station, and in approximately an hour and 20 minutes, you&#8217;ll arrive at Ishioka Station. From there, a short taxi ride or local bus can take you to the factory.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 If you plan to explore the iconic Mount Tsukuba, you can take a bus directly from Tsukuba Station (accessible via the Tsukuba Express Line from Akihabara) to the mountain&#8217;s base.\u00a0 Combine your visit to the incense factory with a hike or cable car ride for breathtaking views of the Kanto Plain.\u202f\u00a0 \u00a0 More About Ishioka and Its Surrounding Areas\u202f Beyond the sights and smells of the Komamura Seimeido factory, Ishioka offers a wide array of experiences:\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 Mount Tsukuba: Known as one of Japan&#8217;s &#8220;Three Holy Mountains,&#8221; this is a favourite among hikers and sightseers. Visit the ancient Tsukubasan Shrine, nestled at the mountain&#8217;s base, before ascending for panoramic views.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 Kasama Inari Shrine: A short train ride away, this stunning shrine is one of Japan&#8217;s three largest Inari shrines. It&#8217;s incredibly vibrant during festivals and features a picturesque setting with red torii gates and traditional architecture.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 Local Cuisine: Check out Ibaraki&#8217;s regional specialties, from soba noodles, to natto, a delicacy made of fermented soy beans.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 Ishioka Festival: If you&#8217;re in the area in September, make sure you catch the Ishioka Festival, which is famous for its colourful floats and lion dances.\u00a0 A Fun Historical Fact Did you know that incense was once part of the samurai tradition? Supposedly, samurai used incense to calm their minds before battle and the prospect of death. This practice highlights incense&#8217;s powerful role in Japanese culture, not only as a way to purify spaces but also as a means of preparing the spirit for intense challenges.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 Japanese Incense and Tea Ceremonies.\u200b In Japan, incense appreciation is known as Kodo, much like their traditional tea ceremony, Shodo.\u202fThese two rituals have been intertwined for years, with incense purifying the air in the room. Ensuring that tea ceremony guests enter a space free from impurities or evil spirits.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 Sometimes, incense can be used to time the tea ceremony; when the stick or cone finishes burning, the ceremony naturally concludes. In other cases, the Tea Master, who has mastered the art of the ceremony and is responsible for creating a calm and motivated atmosphere, burns incense in preparation for the guests&#8217; arrival. When the incense is done burning, the ceremony is ready to begin. In Japan, the tea master is called. &#8220;Chajin&#8221;.\u00a0\u00a0 Bring the Japanese Tradition Home If you&#8217;re intrigued by the art of cedar leaf incense but can&#8217;t make the journey to Ishioka, don&#8217;t worry\u2014you can still experience this unique tradition from the comfort of your home. Mobal, in partnership with GoodsfromJapan.com, is offering an exclusive discount on cedar leaf incense. Simply use the code \u202fF32WFF0NZPFC at checkout to enjoy 1 or 2 boxes of aromatic Japanese heritage with a discount of 10%. Whether you visit in person or shop online, cedar leaf incense offers a calming connection to Japan&#8217;s rich cultural past.\u202f\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 click here for GoodsfromJapan<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":31,"featured_media":17556,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[240],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17551","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-japan-travel-guide"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Mobal Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Admin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Admin\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Admin\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/f75ea7d7e87fca15c42e84eb47a863d2\"},\"headline\":\"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":857,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Japan Tourist Tips\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/\",\"name\":\"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00\",\"description\":\"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":800},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/japan-travel-guide\\\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Mobal Blog\",\"description\":\"A Community for Mobal World Phone travelers that features how-to guides, travel hints, tips, tricks and much more.\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Mobal Blog\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2016\\\/09\\\/logo-est-date-new1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2016\\\/09\\\/logo-est-date-new1.png\",\"width\":184,\"height\":110,\"caption\":\"Mobal Blog\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mobal.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/f75ea7d7e87fca15c42e84eb47a863d2\",\"name\":\"Admin\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Admin\"}}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -","description":"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -","og_description":"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/","og_site_name":"Mobal Blog","article_published_time":"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":800,"url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Admin","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Admin","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/"},"author":{"name":"Admin","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/f75ea7d7e87fca15c42e84eb47a863d2"},"headline":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki","datePublished":"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00","dateModified":"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/"},"wordCount":857,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg","articleSection":["Japan Tourist Tips"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/","url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/","name":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki -","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg","datePublished":"2025-03-11T08:16:02+00:00","dateModified":"2025-06-19T14:46:40+00:00","description":"Looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo? We suggest Ibaraki! Not far from Tokyo, it\u2019s the perfect day trip to find your own Japanese Zen.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Senryu-blog-1.jpg","width":1200,"height":800},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/japan-travel-guide\/a-day-trip-from-tokyo-japanese-zen-in-ibaraki\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"A Day Trip from Tokyo: Japanese Incense &amp; Tranquillity in Ibaraki"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/","name":"Mobal Blog","description":"A Community for Mobal World Phone travelers that features how-to guides, travel hints, tips, tricks and much more.","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Mobal Blog","url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/logo-est-date-new1.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/logo-est-date-new1.png","width":184,"height":110,"caption":"Mobal Blog"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/f75ea7d7e87fca15c42e84eb47a863d2","name":"Admin","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/2bac61f1c8a3a6cffa66d58a2d993b0502eb6be7a88241592d685fe9aee35da4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Admin"}}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17551","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/31"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17551"}],"version-history":[{"count":22,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17551\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18481,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17551\/revisions\/18481"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17556"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17551"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17551"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mobal.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17551"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}