Takazawa Candles Bring New Light to an Old Craft

Nothing beats the warm flickering glow of a candle to set the mood for a cozy family evening, an intimate meal, or solitary relaxation. A beautifully crafted high-quality candle makes for an instant, fail-proof mood-lifter. And Takazawa Candles have been lighting the way for over a hundred years.

Founded in Nanao, Japan, in 1892, Takazawa is famed for its traditional Japanese candles, wa-rousoku, crafted from natural waxes. The craft dates back to the Nara period (A.D. 710–794), beginning with beeswax, then later wax from haze (sumac) trees, which became widely cultivated for candlemaking.

Founded in Nanao, Japan, in 1892, Takazawa is famed for its traditional Japanese candles, wa-rousoku, crafted from natural waxes. The craft dates back to the Nara period (A.D. 710–794), beginning with beeswax, then later wax from haze (sumac) trees, which became widely cultivated for candlemaking.

The candles gained popularity with the spread of Buddhism, being commonly used in temples and home altars. After craftspeople came together to form a candle-making cooperative in Nanao, the port city became a national hub for candles and cargo ships left daily carrying the candles around the country.

Today, Takazawa Candle is carrying on the traditional approach to candle-making. They use wax derived from sumac trees, rice bran, canola oil, and fruits of the urushi tree; the wick is made by wrapping dried rush weed and silk around washi, Japanese paper, shaped into a cylinder. This technique enables the wick to absorb more wax, resulting in a larger, more powerful flame and a cleaner burn.

Make time for yourself. Light a candle and watch the flame dance. Enjoy the moment.