Brand & Maker Overview

DAIYO

100% natural plant wax from Japan. Quiet light, handmade in Omi.

Founded in 1914 in Takashima, Shiga, DAIYO is a specialist maker of Japanese candles. The craft has been refined across four generations. Each candle is made with 100% domestically sourced natural plant wax and finished by skilled hands. In household sizes, wax drips and soot are kept to a minimum, and the scent stays subtle. From the dining table to the bath and moments of prayer, DAIYO offers options you can choose by scene.

2-5-8 Sumiyoshi, Imazu-cho, Takashima-shi, Shiga 520-1621, Japan daiyo
DAIYO

Why We Love It

DAIYO feels best when you use it as a daily tool, not just a decoration. For dinner, try a rice-wax candle — its odor stays subtle, so it won't overpower food or tea aromas. In the bathroom or on a small counter, a block candle is easy to place because it stands on its own. For a short reset before bed, the small "Mame" size is a simple way to mark time. When you want a slower moment, choose a haze-wax candle and enjoy tending the wick as the flame changes.

PROFILE About the Company / Workshop

Founded in 1914 in Takashima, Shiga, DAIYO is a specialist maker of Japanese candles. The craft has been refined across four generations. The brand's spirit is shaped by local knowledge of living alongside nature — an attitude that still guides its making today.

DAIYO candles are made with 100% domestically sourced natural plant wax, finished one by one by skilled artisans. In household sizes, wax drips and soot are kept to a minimum, and the scent stays subtle. It's a practical kind of light for daily rooms.

Key materials include rice bran wax and haze (wax berry) wax, both plant-based. The Rice Candle is recognized for its clean burn and received the 2011 Good Design Award (SME Agency Director's Award). Sizes and shapes are designed so you can choose what suits your space and pace.

For the table, there are long-burning rice candle options. For small spaces, the block candle can stand on its own. For a short moment, the "Mame" size ends quickly and helps you mark time. The main store is open 9:00–17:30, and weekend/holiday visits require a reservation. Online shopping is also available.

A craft rooted in 1914

DAIYO was founded in 1914 in Shiga and has passed its techniques through four generations. Inspired by the wisdom of living with nature around Lake Biwa, the brand keeps refining the quality of light — quietly and steadily.

100% natural plant wax from Japan

DAIYO uses 100% domestically sourced natural plant wax. Each piece is carefully made by skilled artisans. The material's honest character shows in the flame, creating a gentle warmth in the room.

Minimal drip, soot, and odor

In household sizes, wax dripping and soot are kept to a minimum, and the scent is almost unnoticeable. That makes the candles easy to place in everyday spaces — at the table, by the bath, or near your bed.

Choose by scene: rice, haze, and more

From rice-wax candles and self-standing block candles to short-burning "Mame" sizes, the lineup fits different rhythms of life. The "Rice Candle" received the 2011 Good Design Award (SME Agency Director's Award).

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