Binchotan (Japanese Oak) activated charcoal is the highest grade of charcoal. These charcoals are from the Kishu region of Japan. A natural purification that reduces water hardness, absorbs odor, and filters for great-tasting water Use 1 stick for 3 liters of water; stick is approximately 2-2.5cm in diameter and 15cm in length. Reactivate charcoal every two weeks by boiling for 10 minutes and letting dry. Filtering time for 3L of water is 3-4 hours. Binchotan Charcoal naturally purifies for great-tasting water. Binchotan is known as the highest quality charcoal and is activated through an extremely high burning temperature and a rapid cooling process. Binchotan's alkaline properties reduce water hardness. In addition, it naturally absorbs odor and improves the overall taste of water, leaving you with a fresh glass of water each time. Each stick can be used for about three months. After three months, it can be used as a natural deodorizer, dehumidifier, or broken it into small pieces and placed into your plant soil, creating micro water and air cavities in the soil. Made in the Kishu region in Japan. First use: rinse with water and boil for 10 minutes and let dry. Two binchotan charcoal sticks are included in a package. Use 1 stick for 3 liters of water. The filtering time is approximately 3-4 hours.