Shoyeido Incense

Life with Fragrance ~ Kodo (Way of Fragrance), together with kado (Floral Arrangements) and chado (Tea Ceremony) are collectively known as the Three Classical Japanese Arts of Refinement.

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The Ten Virtues of Koh  

These "virtues of incense" were compiled in the 16th century. They continue to capture the spirit of Koh (incense) appreciation.

  • It brings communication with the transcendent.
  • It refreshes mind and body.
  • It removes impurity.
  • It brings alertness.
  • It is a companion in solitude.
  • In the midst of busy affairs, it brings a moment of peace.
  • When it is plentiful, one never tires of it.
  • When there is little, still one is satisfied.
  • Age does not change its efficacy.
  • Used everyday, it does no harm.

Over 1,400 years ago, a large piece of fragrant driftwood washed ashore on the tiny Japanese island of Awaji. Realizing the uniqueness of the marvelous fragrance emanating from the wood, island locals presented it as a gift to the Empress Suiko. With this gift of precious agarwood began a new era of refinement of -- and appreciation for -- the enjoyment of fragrance.

In the early 18th century, Rokubei Moritsune Hata began incorporating incense-making techniques he learned as an employee of Kyoto's Imperial Palace. He would eventually introduce a new world of scent to an audience beyond the realm of royalty.

Twelve generations later, the Hata family continue to create an amazing array of fragrances. Shoyeido incense is considered the highest quality, most natural incense available on Earth.

Shoyeido's blending process is an art form. Highly trained "masters" draw upon centuries-old secrets to create masterworks of fragrance. These artisans carefully process the quality, balance, and ratio of every hand-selected natural ingredient. The slightest variation in amount or quality of any component can dramatically influence the outcome. Only the finest raw materials are used. The results are remarkable, subtle scents that beckon us to use all of our senses, which the Japanese call mon-koh, or "listening to incense."

Shoyeido products are not just the preferred incense for most temples in Japan. Their unique blends are the modern natural solution for creating a relaxed atmosphere in the home. Whether as an accompaniment to work, to enliven social settings, to deepen yoga and meditation practices, or simply as bubble bath or spa accompaniment, Shoyeido's pure incense is a timeless way to enhance atmosphere.

With respect for the environment and a concern for green practices, Shoyeido continues to set the standard in the market of fragrance. We have procured permits from the Ministry of Economy, Trade & Industry in Japan, and the US Fish & Wildlife Department to validate that our products are properly accounted for and responsibly harvested. None of our recipes contain animal ingredients and no testing has ever been done on animals.

Shoyeido's products are proven sellers in many markets, including health food stores, gift shops, bookstores, boutiques, vitamin stores, apothecaries, spas, and salons. Shoyeido is the ideal product for stores looking for the best quality lifestyle items. As consumers continue to reach for natural products to deepen their experience and appreciation for life, Shoyeido incense stands apart as the perfect, pure solution.