Beyond Beauty: A Cultural Endeavor for Inner Peace
The Grand Prix champions a novel approach where participants translate their prayers and heartfelt intentions into fragrance. The inaugural event garnered significant attention, with a reported 86% of participants experiencing improved mental well-being within just five minutes. This year’s second iteration deepened its cultural and social significance by showcasing the finalist works for a week at Ninnaji Temple’s Kuroshoin (Black Drawing Room), allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the prayers and worldviews embedded within each unique scent.
A diverse group of 150 individuals, spanning from preschoolers to those in their 70s, participated in this year’s Grand Prix (111 general, 34 kids, 5 junior entries). They collectively engaged in the experience of “recognizing their own mind and body’s state” through scent creation. The awards ceremony itself was held at the Ninnaji Temple’s Goshoteien “Tatsunoden” (Dragon Hall) on November 3, 2025.
Scenting Well-Being: Participants Report Positive Shifts
Post-event surveys revealed a significant positive impact on participants’ well-being. When asked, “Did your Well-Being increase by participating in this contest?” on a five-point scale, approximately 80% responded affirmatively, with 82 individuals saying “greatly increased” and 22 saying “increased.” This indicates that the process of “choosing, assembling, and expressing” scents can swiftly influence one’s emotional state.
The most poignant example of this transformative power came from the 4-year-old finalist. During her fragrance creation journey, she quietly confronted her intricate feelings and emotions toward her sister, ultimately transforming them into a scent that embodied compassion. Her ability to acknowledge her emotions without denial and naturally extend her gaze towards another’s feelings was highly praised. This achievement stands as a powerful testament to how scent can serve as a conduit for prayer, introspection, and the cultivation of empathy, transcending age barriers.
Children Discover Self-Care Through Scent
Beyond the adult participants, the kids’ division survey further underscored this impact, with 81% of young participants believing their self-made fragrances could “energize or reassure them,” and 71% expressing a desire to “apply again next year.” This demonstrates that children themselves are developing a tangible sense of “self-care” and “self-nurturing” through this unique olfactory art form.
The profound resonance of the Grand Prix was echoed in the words of its participants. One shared, “Through putting my thoughts into fragrance, I was able to carefully confront my past and future,” illustrating the deep introspection fostered by the process. Another reflected, “I realized that ‘my current self’s one drop is enough’,” highlighting a newfound acceptance and self-compassion. Such heartfelt testimonials underscore the Grand Prix’s unique ability to connect individuals with their deepest selves and others.
A Fragrant Future for Well-Being
Looking ahead, the Fragrance Art Grand Prix is poised for continued growth. Organizers plan to expand the practice of Well-Being through fragrance into diverse fields such as medicine, education, and culture, aiming to integrate this innovative approach into broader societal contexts. The next chapter, the 3rd Fragrance Art Award, is set to open its entry period on February 10, 2026 (Tuesday).
The Grand Prix is organized by MIWAIKEHATA Co., Ltd. in collaboration with the Omuro School of Shingon Buddhism Head Temple Ninnaji and the Japan Aroma Therapy Creation Organization “TeraCARE 2025 OMOIYARI & Femtech in Kyoto” Executive Committee. Kyoto Prefecture provided support, with special cooperation from Flavor Life Co., Ltd. and several other companies. More information about MIWAIKEHATA Co., Ltd. can be found on their official website: http://miwaikehata.com
