Nippon Kodo Incense Holder – Yukari

Yukari: Incense Plates Inspired by Traditional Crests

The Yukari Incense Holder & Plate Series by Nippon Kodo presents incense plates designed with motifs drawn from traditional decorative patterns and family crests long admired in Japanese culture. Each design reflects symbols that have been valued across generations for their beauty, meaning, and quiet dignity.

Rooted in historical ornamentation, the Yukari series expresses a subtle connection to heritage and aesthetic tradition through refined, minimalist form. The plates are designed to complement incense rituals with visual calm, offering a composed presence that harmonizes naturally with a variety of living spaces.

Design Motifs

Butterfly Crest (Chomon)
Butterflies were cherished by court nobles during the Heian period as graceful decorative motifs. Over time, their elegant forms were incorporated into armor and helmets within warrior culture, and later transformed into family crests admired for their beauty and symbolism.

Chrysanthemum Crest (Kikumon)
The chrysanthemum is a flower deeply associated with Japan and has been respected since ancient times. From the Kamakura period onward, chrysanthemum motifs were used in lacquerware and garments, eventually becoming auspicious symbols in family crests representing refinement and continuity.

Tea Seed Crest (Chano-mi-mon)
Tea was introduced to Japan as a precious substance and was once regarded as a noble medicinal plant. Associated with longevity and well-being, the tea seed motif came to be adopted into family crests as a symbol reflecting these admired qualities.

Each Yukari incense plate is intended to be enjoyed not only as a functional holder but also as a quietly expressive design object. Incense is not included, allowing the plate to be freely paired with a wide range of fragrances according to individual preference.