Hibi: incense matches made in Japan
We were first attracted by the sleek design of Hibi products. Made in Japan, the incense is elegant and incredibly smart in its design. It was designed to function like a matchbox, which resembles nothing known. The packaging it comes in is compact and looks like a traditional matchbox. Inside are eight small incense sticks that have exactly the shape - you guessed it - of crackling matches. Composed of delicate yet captivating scents, the Hibi collection includes fragrances such as classic lavender and essential Japanese aromas like Yuzu.
To use the incense, simply strike the tip of the stick against the side of the box. Once lit, tilt it downwards so that the flame continues to burn. When the flame reaches the incense part of the stick, blow on it and place it on Hibi's exclusive round mat to let it burn while releasing its sweet bouquet (the Hibi team told us that their mat is an original design with a pending patent and is made from non-flammable materials).
Each stick burns for about 10 minutes, but the scent lingers in your space much longer.
A collaboration between two traditions
It is easy to fall in love with Hibi incense: its unique design and high-quality scents make it an extremely successful product. However, we wondered: "Why a matchstick?" Beyond the playful aspect, was there a practical reason for this concept?
It turns out that the story is not just a simple gadget.
Hibi was born in 2011, when two respected Japanese manufacturers from Kiyogo Prefecture (think in terms of province) met and had the idea to collaborate. They designed a useful product that would highlight their respective professions.
First of all, there is the company Daihatsu, which has been producing incense for 80 years. The use of incense has been an integral part of Japan since the 9th century AD. Originally, it was a religious offering, but it quickly evolved to become a daily element of culture, which still exists today. The region of Hyogo Prefecture, where Daihatsu operates (Awaji Island), accounts for up to 70% of the country's incense production, and this famous company has continuously contributed to this success.
Secondly, there is the Kobe Match Corporation. Founded in 1929, this company was established after match production on the island surged following the introduction of fire-starting technology by Europeans in the late 19th century. Since then, Japan has become a leader in the manufacturing of high-quality matches, and Kobe Match has helped keep this local industry alive. Unfortunately, the use of matches has declined in our modern era, but brands like Kobe Match are still passionate about maintaining their tradition.
"Matches do not need to play a leading role. However, we would like to convey the roots and tradition of our industry." - Kobe Match Corp.
When these two esteemed companies met for the first time, they forged a bond based on a simple idea. After three years of hard work and meticulous development of this idea, the final product we have today represents the best of Japanese craftsmanship. Not only did they succeed in creating something from their original vision, but they also managed to give a new purpose to their two industries.