How to Light Japanese Charcoal

To light Japanese charcoal for burning resin incense, begin by selecting a heat-resistant surface like an incense burner, a ceramic dish filled with sand, or a metal bowl. Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated and free from any flammable materials. Japanese charcoal typically comes in smaller sticks or discs and requires a more gradual lighting process. Start by using a lighter or a match to apply a flame directly to one end of the charcoal piece. Hold the flame steady until you see the charcoal start to glow with an orange or red hue. Japanese charcoal can take a bit longer to ignite compared to quick-light charcoal, so be patient and continue applying the flame for around 20 to 30 seconds or until you notice a consistent glow.

Once the charcoal is glowing, use a pair of tongs to carefully place it onto your heat-resistant surface. Let the charcoal sit for a few minutes to ensure it is fully ignited and evenly heated. You may notice a faint glow spreading across the charcoal and a slight release of heat, indicating that it is ready for use. When the charcoal is fully lit, use a small spoon or spatula to place a few pieces of resin incense, like frankincense or myrrh, onto the center of the hot charcoal. The resin will begin to melt, releasing aromatic smoke that fills your space with a calming scent, perfect for meditation, cleansing, or ritual practices. Always remember to monitor the charcoal while it is burning, handle it with care, and allow it to cool completely before disposing of the ashes.