About Us

Okoh — Japan’s Incense Culture to the World


Founded in 1937 as a wholesale incense merchant, we chose the name Kohgen with the hope of becoming a true "source of information on Japanese incense."

We are passionate about sharing the beauty and depth of incense with as many people as possible.

With a deep respect for tradition, we continue to dedicate ourselves to incense so that this unique aspect of Japanese culture can be passed down to future generations—and shared with the world.

Company Profile

Kohgen Co., Ltd.
Founded 1937
Established December 6, 1991
Address 4-47 Oaki-cho, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi 453-0042

・Contact
E-mail webmaster@kohgen.com
Company HP https://okoh.co.jp/

・Finance & Business
Capital JPY 10,000,000
Business Activities
Sales of incense (okoh), aromatic wood, prayer beads (juzu), and other fragrance-related products.

Company Timeline

  • 1937
    Kikuya Seishindo founded by the first generation, Shigeo Kikuya
  • 1947
    Became an agent for Usui Shoten (now S.T. Corporation) and began selling pocket warmers and charcoal
  • 1947
    Certified as agent for major incense manufacturers nationwide (Kincho, Seijudo, Baieido, etc.)
  • 1953
    Launched charcoal incense "Miyoshikoutan", now holding 60% market share (manufactured by Mycoal Co., Ltd.)
  • 1999
    Started mail-order business via website (still operating today)
  • 2001
    Started incense experience at directly managed stores — kohgen.com
  • 2009
    Nagoya Head Office newly opened
  • 2014
    Ginza Main Store opened
  • 2016
    Nagoya Main Store newly opened
  • 2018
    Ueno store opened
  • 2020
    Okoh Recurrent Academy established (General Incorporated Association)
  • 2025
    Company name changed to "Kohgen Co., Ltd."
  • 2025
    Kyoto Karasuma Gojo store opened

Store 　-4 locations-

Concierges are stationed at each store. In a relaxing space filled with good scents, we will help you find the scent from a selection of incense from all over Japan.Enjoy a variety of encounters, from familiar scents to new scents.
Ginza

Ginza

Ginza is Tokyo’s premier luxury district, known for its blend of tradition and modernity. Nestled in Ginza 4-chome, just steps from the iconic Kabukiza Theater, our store offers a refined space to explore the world of fragrance.Conveniently located a 1-minute walk from Exit 5 of Higashi-Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line & Toei Asakusa Line).
Ueno

Ueno

Ueno is a vibrant cultural hub, home to museums, historic sites, and the charming Yanesen neighborhood. Our store stands along Kotoidori in Ueno Sakuragi, Taito Ward—a quiet area perfect for a leisurely visit. About a 15-minute walk from JR Ueno Station’s Park Exit, toward Tokyo University of the Arts.
Kyoto

Kyoto

Kyoto, the ancient capital, is famed for its temples, seasonal beauty, and deep cultural roots. Our Kyoto location offers a serene space to discover fragrance in the heart of this historic city. Just 7 minutes on foot from Gojo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
Nagoya

Nagoya

Nagoya is a dynamic city where innovation meets tradition, located in central Japan. Our flagship store stands in Oakimachi, near Nagoya Station’s west exit. It's an easy 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Honjin Station on the Higashiyama Subway Line.

Message from the CEO

CEO　Masahiko Kikuya

Founded in 1937 during the early Showa period, we originallystarted as an incense wholesaler." We named our company“Kohgen” meaning "the source of information about incensein Japan.”We would like to convey the culture of incense to peoplearound the world. And we would like to pass on the culture ofincense as a gift to our future children. For this purpose, all ofus aim to be an “incense concierge” who can suggest the bestincense for our customers, and each of us is making effortsevery day.

CEO's Biography

Graduated from Aichi University
Graduated from JapanShorinji Marcial Arts College,Higher Normal Course

2002～ Lecturer at the China-JapanCultural Center

2009～ Part-time lecturer atKinjo University

2020～ Established GeneralIncorporated Association OkohRecurrent Academy and assumedthe position of Director.

《Lecture History》
the Association of Small BusinessEntrepreneurs, Japan ManagementConsultants Association, Nikkei BusinessPublications, Rikkyo University, Ministryof Land, Infrastructure, Transport andTourism etc.