Begin your experience by learning about the history of Japanese fragrance culture. Discover how it started in the Asuka period with a piece of driftwood and evolved through the Heian, Kamakura, and Edo periods, becoming a cherished tradition among nobles, samurai, and townspeople.

Next, delve into the world of Kodo, the Japanese art of appreciating incense. Learn about the two main schools: the aristocratic “Oie-ryu” and the samurai “Shino-ryu.” Experience a demonstration of how to appreciate incense and get hands-on with different types of fragrant woods.

Witness a traditional Kodo ceremony, observing the spiritual and aesthetic elements that have been passed down through generations. Then, enjoy a guided incense appreciation session, where you’ll notice how the scent of the same wood can change based on factors like temperature and humidity.

Create your own unique fragrance by combining different aromatic materials. Take home your personalized scent in a sachet as a memento of your experience.

Learn how to incorporate the mindfulness of incense appreciation into your daily life. Finally, enjoy a tea and wagashi (Japanese sweets) session, sharing your thoughts and experiences with fellow participants in a fragrant, peaceful setting.