Experience the Unique Charm of Obuse with 'Muso' Incense until November 30

Discovering Obuse’s Local Charm through Sustainable Craft

In a beautiful fusion of tradition and innovation, Obuse, a charming town in Nagano, Japan, is introducing a new incense product called 'Muso' (霧想), crafted from discarded chestnut husks. This initiative, led by Obuse Local Produce, showcases the town's commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship while collaborating with renowned creators from both domestic and international backgrounds.

The Journey of Muso Incense

The inspiration behind 'Muso' comes from the rich cultural heritage of Obuse, a place famous for its high-quality chestnuts, particularly the 'Obuse Chestnut.' Recognizing the waste generated from chestnut processing, the local artisans have ingeniously transformed these husks into artwork. The incense takes the shape of chestnut leaves, representing the seamless blend of nature and craftsmanship.

Currently, this sustainable product is featured on the social good crowdfunding platform 'For Good.' The pre-sale will run until November 30, 2025, providing backers with an opportunity to support and experience this unique project firsthand. For Good Project Page

Embracing Sustainability and Culture

Obuse has a historical reputation for embracing external talents, with a legacy highlighted by the famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai during the Edo period. This project reflects Obuse's tradition of collaboration, infusing new life into local resources through the perspectives of external artists.

In recent times, Obuse has positioned itself as a 'model city for environmental disaster prevention,' focusing on circular economies and sustainable tourism. 'Muso' incorporates these principles, merging cultural appreciation with environmental consciousness to create an innovative product that pays homage to Obuse's rich heritage.

Collaborators That Shine

The creation of 'Muso' owes much to the collaboration between the local creators from Obuse, 'Tokyo Kodo,' a leading incense maker founded in 1935, and 'POETIC CURIOSITY,' a design studio known for their poetic approach to craftsmanship. The artisans behind 'Tokyo Kodo' have refined their craft using both traditional Japanese techniques and insights gained from the perfume capital of the world, Grasse, France.

POETIC CURIOSITY, led by designers Yusuke Aonuma and Kensei Miyoshi, specializes in transforming poetic ideas into tangible designs, earning their place as recognized talent at prominent design exhibitions such as Milan Design Week.

An Unforgettable Experience: Obuse Welcomes You

One of the standout rewards for backers is the 'Ultimate Obuse Hospitality Plan,' a unique experiential tour that lasts two days and one night. Organized by locals who are engaged in the community's development, this plan provides an exclusive perspective on Obuse's cultural and historical richness.

Guided by a Local Legend

The tour includes a visit to a chestnut confectionery factory, where participants will hear insights from former town mayor, Mr. Shoichi Sakurai, a key figure in promoting Obuse's culinary heritage. His firsthand stories of the town's past, intertwined with the history of its renowned chestnut products, offer an invaluable glimpse into Obuse’s identity.

Zen at Genshoji Temple

Another highlight is a Zen meditation experience at Genshoji Temple, where participants will savor the aroma of 'Muso' incense while meditating under the guidance of creators from POETIC CURIOSITY and Tokyo Kodo. Founded over 450 years ago, Genshoji boasts a serene atmosphere that enhances the sensory experience of the incense, encouraging meditative reflection on the essence of time in Obuse.

Through 'Muso,' Obuse invites everyone to immerse themselves in its unique culture and sustainability efforts. This limited-time offering not only showcases the beauty of local craftsmanship but also contributes to broader conversations about environmental responsibility and community engagement. Join us in experiencing the sweet aroma and rich history of Obuse before November 30, 2025.