What kinds of scents does incense have?
I like traditional Japanese scents—any recommendations?
When you hear the word "incense," you might not immediately grasp how many types there are—Japanese incense, Indian incense, and more.
Here, we’ll introduce you to Japanese incense available at Kohgen and help you discover fragrances that match your preferences.
3 Steps to Fall in Love with Incense
Types of Japanese Incense Scents – What You Should Know Before Choosing
Scents of Japanese incense can generally be divided into two main categories:
The traditional Japanese-style “Fragrant wood (traditional)” type, and the Western-style “Fragrance(aromatic)” type.
The Fragrant wood type uses aromatic woods—literally, wood that emits fragrance—and evokes images of temples and serene, traditional Japanese atmospheres.
Even within this “Japanese-style” category, there's a broad range, from classic and calming to more vivid and elegant scents.
The Fragrance type is easier to imagine from the name—think flowers, fruits, drinks like tea or coffee, perfume, forest or ocean themes—Western-style scents focusing on imagery.
In these, liquid fragrance materials play a key role in scent creation.
Fragrant wood-Type Scents
Temple-Inspired, Japanese Style
Fragrance-Type Scents
Image-Focused, Western Style
How to Find Your Favorite Fragrance
The scent of incense changes drastically before and after lighting—so the best way is to try burning it yourself.
Tips for Smelling Incense
How Incense Releases Fragrance and Smoke
Interestingly, the scent of incense doesn’t actually come from the smoke.
It’s released from the incense body itself as it is gently heated—not from the smoke.
So when smelling incense, try standing about 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) away and slowly inhale the surrounding air through your nose.
You can also gently wave your hand to waft the scent from a distance and enjoy the aroma that way.
Visit a Specialty Incense Store
If there’s an incense shop nearby, take your time exploring in person.
Pick a few that catch your eye or seem appealing, and try sample burning to experience the scent directly—that’s the clearest way to find your match.
If test burning isn't available, or you're unsure what to choose, don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for guidance.
Kohgen store information
At Kohgen’s physical stores, our “Incense Concierges” are always ready to assist with fragrance consultations!
You can also hold and test the actual products.
Tokyo Ginza Store
4-14-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061
☎03-6853-8811
Open: 10:17 AM – 7:17 PM
Open year-round
1-minute walk from Exit 3 of Higashi-Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro)
Right near Kabukiza Theatre
Store Information(Japanese official site)
Tokyo Ueno Store
1-10-16 Ueno Sakuragi, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0002
☎03-3827-6666
Open: 9:17 AM – 6:17 PM
Closed: Monday & Tuesday
5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro)
Paid parking available nearby
Store Information(Japanese official site)
Nagoya Store
4-47 Oaki-cho, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya City 453-0042
☎052-486-1888
Open: 9:17 AM – 6:17 PM
Open year-round
7-minute walk from Exit 4 of Honjin Station (Subway)
7 parking spaces available
Store Information(Japanese official site)
Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo Store
1F, Shinhanakomachi, 830 Higashiwakamatsu-cho, Hanayacho-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8305
☎075-741-7026
Open: 9:17 AM – 6:17 PM
Closed: Wednesday & Thursday
7-minute walk from Gojo Station (Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line)
Store Information(Japanese official site)
