Shunkohdo Sarasoju (1196, 1121, 1120)

This incense smells of wood burning in the beginning and intermittently thereafter; light sandalwood scent emitted thereafter. Dry, woody, sawdust-like and resinous notes were discerned. There was little traces of creaminess and sweetness (unlike Minorien Fu-In), and no cinnamon/spice and perfumery notes (unlike Yamadamatsu Kayo). It feels cool, quiet, and austere. The scent is subtle and does not travel across a wider radius. It feels transparent/open and quiet. But it can also feel "dense temple-like" and even acrid if you get too close into the way of the smoke. It is best to appreciate it from a distance of more than 1 metre. It left a subtle sweet sandalwood scent in the room up to 15 minutes after extinguishment.

This was the first time I ordered from Wa no Kaori. The entire purchasing process was smooth, and the parcel arrived within the estimated delivery timeframe. It took 10 calendar days for the parcel from Japan to arrived at my mailbox in Singapore. Tanaka-san has been very responsive to my initial email enquiry.

If you wish to try out sandalwood scent without the embellishments of spices and other additions, Shunkohdo Sarasoju is a good way to savour that (your mileage may vary). I highly recommend this product and Wa no Kaori's service.