Karin Swallows in Flight Japanese Incense Sticks by Kunjudo + Incense Holder

This is an intriguing incense. The first couple of times I burned just half a stick and really didnt like what seemed like a strange sweet cloying smell. Not wanting to waste the rest of the packet, I decided to experiment by burning it alongside other incenses. This seemed to work as it became less overpowering. Then I decided to try it on its own again and a strange thing happened: this time I really liked it! Now it's like one stick isnt enough and its seems so subtle compared to the first few burnings!!It is hard to describe but my individual take is that it is rich and earthy, but with a sweetness and also a slight smokiness, Sometimes it almost smells like cigars, sometimes I pick up something like coffee/vanilla. It definitely isnt of the light, flowery or fruity kind of incense. I cannot imagine why someone decided to call it Swallows in Flight.The sticks are small and thin but do last approx 30 mins. Once burned, the odour soon dissipates so you have to enjoy it whilst it is burning and for a short while after. Although it does smoke a bit, it doesnt leave an after smell of smoke like some of the cheaper Japanese incenses like Morning Star.I don't think this is one for burning everyday as it is a bit special - though currently I am a bit addicted to it!