FAQ - MURO | Traditional Japanese Incense & Mindful Scents

Do I need prior experience?

No. Our residencies are designed for committed beginners. Your master will guide you from fundamentals, teaching techniques appropriate to your skill level. What matters is genuine interest and willingness to learn, not prior expertise.

How many guests join each residency?

Groups are intentionally limited to 6–8 participants. This ensures quality instruction, meaningful interaction with your master, and genuine connection within the group. The intimate size is fundamental to the experience.

Are rooms private?

Yes. Each participant has their own private bedroom. You share common spaces—living areas, dining room, gardens—with your group, but your bedroom is your personal space for rest and privacy.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Many participants attend solo and value the small-group setting as a way to meet like-minded people. The shared house and group meals create natural opportunities for connection without forced socializing.

Is this suitable for private groups or company teams?

Yes. We arrange exclusive residencies for private groups of 6–8 people. This works well for leadership teams, founders, creative collaborators, or friends traveling together. See our Private Groups page for details.

What is included in the program?

Everything except international flights: private room in the shared house, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), craft instruction with your master, all workshop materials and tools, local transportation, cultural activities and site admissions, full-time coordinator support, and airport transfers.

What is not included?

International flights to/from Japan, travel insurance, personal expenses, alcohol beyond what's served with meals, and additional activities outside the program.

Can MURO help arrange flights?

No. You arrange your own international flights to Japan. We handle all transportation once you arrive—airport pickup, daily transport to workshops, cultural sites, and return airport transfer.

How physically demanding is it?

Most crafts involve sitting or standing work that's accessible to people of moderate fitness. Blade smithing is more physically demanding due to hammer work and heat. Some extra-curricular sightseeing and activities may require a reasonable level of fitness. We're happy to discuss specific physical requirements.

Are dates fixed?

Residencies run on scheduled dates announced several months in advance. Private groups have more flexibility and can request custom dates subject to master availability and seasonal considerations.

What language are the experiences conducted in?

Your master teaches in Japanese with technical interpretation provided. Cultural activities and house coordination happen in English. This combination allows authentic instruction while ensuring comprehension.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most religious or allergy-based dietary needs. Japanese cuisine offers considerable flexibility. Let us know your requirements when booking.

What is the pricing?

Pricing varies by craft and duration. Most 6-day residencies start from ¥850,000 (~$5,800 USD) per person, all-inclusive except flights. More intensive or longer programs range higher. Exact pricing is provided when specific programs are announced.

How do I join or register interest?

Join our waitlist through the Contact page. Waitlist members receive early notification of upcoming residencies with booking access before public announcement. Programs typically fill quickly, often within days of release.

What is your cancellation policy?

Detailed cancellation terms are provided at booking. Generally, deposits are non-refundable after a certain date, as we commit to masters, house bookings, and materials well in advance. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We require participants to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and travel delays. We can recommend providers if needed.

What should I pack?

Detailed packing guidance is sent to confirmed participants. Generally: comfortable clothing suitable for workshop wear, walking shoes for cultural activities, weather-appropriate layers, and any personal items. Workshop clothing can be simple—you'll work with materials that may stain.

What if I have more questions?

Contact us directly through the Contact page or email inquiry@muro.jp. We're happy to answer specific questions about programs, logistics, or help you determine which residency might suit you best.

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