A Kiriko-Inspired Cast Iron Incense Box That Combines Burning and Storage
Bring greater intention to your daily incense ritual with the Awase Incense Box by Chushin Kobo. Expertly crafted from cast iron in Yamagata City, the box pairs two dedicated compartments - one for burning incense and collecting ash, the other for neatly storing incense sticks. Compact and thoughtfully designed, it keeps your incense ritual organized in one elegant piece.
The integrated holder positions each incense stick at a gentle angle, allowing ash to collect neatly inside the box while keeping both ash and incense contained.
The distinctive geometric pattern on the lid draws inspiration from the refined facets of traditional Kiriko cut glass. Its crisp lines contrast beautifully with the subtle texture created through traditional sand casting, celebrating the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship while giving the piece a clean, contemporary presence.
Available in two sizes, the larger version accommodates Japanese incense sticks up to 6.3 inches in length, while the smaller version is designed for incense up to 3.6 inches. When not in use, simply replace the lid to transform the piece into a sculptural object that quietly complements any room.
Thoughtfully balancing beauty and function, the Awase Incense Box brings lasting order and quiet elegance to your everyday ritual.
Chushin Kobo
Founded in 1997 by designer and caster Hisanori Masuda, Chushin Kobo is dedicated to bringing the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese cast iron into contemporary life. Based in Yamagata, a region renowned for its centuries-old casting heritage, the studio designs, manufactures, and distributes every piece in-house, preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern living.
Masuda studied design at Musashino Art University before spending more than two decades learning the traditional techniques of tea kettle casting in Yamagata. His work reflects the belief that craftsmanship should continue to evolve, creating everyday objects that balance utility, simplicity, and enduring beauty.
From teapots and incense accessories to candle holders and home décor, each Chushin Kobo piece embodies a thoughtful harmony between tradition and innovation. By combining refined design with time-honored casting techniques, the studio creates functional objects that enrich daily rituals and celebrate the enduring spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
Awase Incense Box - Kikiko
Dimensions
• Small: 4.3" L x 2.4" W x 1" H
Fits incense sticks up to 3.6" long.
• Large: 7.1" L x 2.4" W x 1" H
Fits incense sticks up to 6.3" long.
Materials
• Cast Iron with a Black Acrylic Resin Finish
Important Note
Due to the nature of the traditional sand-casting process, the lid may exhibit slight warping. This is a natural characteristic of cast iron production and is not considered a defect.
Origin
• Yamagata, Japan