Kunjudo Washi Paper Incense Strips

Nestled on the tranquil west coast of Awaji Island in Japan, Kunjudo has been crafting high-quality Japanese incense for over 130 years. Established in 1893, Kunjudo draws on Awaji Island’s deep-rooted connection to incense, as mentioned in Japan's earliest recorded history, The Chronicles of Japan. With its mild, year-round climate and proximity to the sea, Awaji Island has become Japan’s centre for incense production, where the ancient art is celebrated and preserved.

At Kunjudo, crafting incense is both a legacy and an innovation. Each stick embodies the expertise of local artisans who blend traditional techniques with modern environmental considerations. Using coconut shell charcoal and eco-friendly materials, Kunjudo produces incense with minimal smoke to enhance the sensory experience while prioritising sustainability. In their commitment to protecting nature, Kunjudo have developed eco-incense sticks from unused domestic wood, with part of the proceeds supporting the Setouchi Olive Fund for nature conservation.

The Kunjudo headquarters are located just a short drive from the historic Izanagi Shrine, and are open to visitors year round. The showroom is a sensory journey across floral and woody scents, from lavender and Japanese cypress to cherry blossom and rose. Kunjudo offers a guided tour of its production process, a film on the history of Japanese incense, and a hands-on incense-making workshop, inviting guests to craft their own custom blends.

Kunjudo stands as a guardian of Japanese incense culture, preserving ancient traditions while embracing eco-friendly innovation. Through its unique offerings, Kunjudo shares the artistry of Japanese incense with visitors and customers worldwide, one delicately crafted scent at a time.