A soothing fragrance wafts through Kyoto's Teramachi Street, making you stop and take a look. The source of this fragrance is Kungyokudo Teramachi Store, which was opened in 2022 by Kungyokudo, a long-established incense store founded in 1594. Known as the oldest incense supplier in Japan, Kungyokudo boasts a 430-year history, but is constantly developing new initiatives to suit modern lifestyles.

Adapting to the changing times while maintaining a commitment to quality

Kun Gyokudou has been loved by people for 430 years since it was founded in 1594. During its long history, the types of customers and their needs have changed significantly.

"In the past, we mainly sold incense for Buddhist altars in temples and ordinary homes. Incense used to be more strongly associated with Buddhist altars, but recently many people have been purchasing it as a healing item," explains store manager Ueda Yuri.

Kungyokudo offers the soothing aroma of incense in a way that is in tune with the times while still respecting tradition. They also sell items other than incense. Among their most popular products are soaps and hand creams that are packed with Kungyokudo's unique fragrance.

Kungyokudo is particular about quality, and directly purchases ingredients that cannot be found in Japan from the countries where they are produced. They carry out all processes from blending to sales in-house. "Of course, we have a product lineup that is in line with the times, but I think it's the trust in our quality that has built long-term relationships with our customers," Ueda said.

Ueda-san explained the characteristics of the scent of "Kungyokudo" using the expressions "faint" and "melts into the air." The soothing scent, which is only possible thanks to the quality of the ingredients, fills the air inside the store.

While adapting flexibly to the changing times, they never let go of their commitment to quality. This is one of the reasons why Kungyokudo continues to be loved to this day.

"Custom-made fragrances that soothe the soul" - a new way to enjoy fragrances that expand the world

Kun Gyokudou not only sells traditional products, but also offers new initiatives to meet modern needs. Of particular interest are the incense stick sets that allow you to fill up your favorite scents, and the workshops where you can make your own incense bags.

The incense stick set, which comes with an assortment of your favorite scents, allows you to choose your favorite scents in units of 10 sticks for a certain amount of money or more. Incorporating the SDGs perspective, you purchase a paper box the first time you purchase it, and use it as a reusable box for repeat purchases. You can enjoy the scent according to your mood or the occasion, such as a refreshing scent in the morning and a relaxing scent in the evening.

The incense bag making workshop is a popular event where you can experience mixing and creating your own fragrance, a true "custom" experience. "The fragrance changes dramatically depending on the combination of ingredients, so you can enjoy the excitement of creating your own fragrance. I hope that through this workshop you will learn about the depth and fun of fragrance," says Ueda.

Kungyokudo also sells miscellaneous items such as incense holders. Some of the items are antiques. Ueda says, "Even if they are not made as incense burners or incense holders, you can use a plate with your favorite design as an incense burner, and you can learn how to enjoy them freely."

A special place where you can sense the past and future of Kyoto

Since its founding in 1594, Kungyokudo is the oldest incense supplier in Japan, and has been loved by people for 430 years. As you step inside the store, you will feel the weight of its history, but you will also be surprised by the fresh and modern atmosphere. Kungyokudo will continue to wrap people in healing fragrances, using expressions that suit the times.

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Kungyokudo Teramachi store

電話：075-222-5860

Address: 705-2 Yohoji-mae-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Access: 6 minutes walk from Kyoto City Hall Station on the Tozai Subway Line

HP: https://www.kungyokudo.co.jp/

SNS: https://www.instagram.com/kungyokudo/

For details on opening hours and closing days, please check the link above.