• Open box of Kosaido Hyakuraku-kou incense displaying a colorful array of assorted incense sticks neatly arranged by scent.
  • Ceramic incense holder with a lit incense stick beside the open Kosaido Hyakuraku-kou set, showing colorful sticks and packaging.
  • Closed box of Kosaido Hyakuraku-kou incense, decorated with circular line motifs and scent color indicators.
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Kousaido

Japanese Incense Hyakuraku-kou (Set of 17)

Japanese Incense Hyakuraku-kou (Set of 17)

$89.00 USD
$89.00 USD
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A curated journey through fragrance, the Hyakuraku-kou incense set by Kousaido brings together 17 distinct scents, each inspired by natural botanicals, woods, and resins both familiar and unexpected. From the nostalgic sweetness of fragrant olive and the crisp brightness of lemon, to the grounding depth of aloeswood and the gentle bloom of cherry blossom, every stick invites a new mood, a new moment.

Blended with carefully selected natural sandalwood and aromatic ingredients, each incense is a long-style stick, suitable for both ceremonial use and everyday enjoyment. The set includes six sticks of each fragrance along with a long incense holder in celadon glaze, allowing for a complete and elegant incense experience right out of the box.

Scent lineup:
Magnolia, Lemon, Fragrant Olive, Patchouli, Apple, Peach, Cherry Blossom, Lotus, Lavender, Vanilla, Jasmine, Green Tea, Bamboo, Camphor, Sandalwood, Coffee, and Aloeswood.

Whether as a personal collection or a thoughtful gift, Hyakuraku-kou offers a richly layered experience—seventeen invitations to pause, reflect, and rediscover the beauty of scent.

Detail

Box Size: W 6.5in x L 12.8in x H 0.9in / W 16.6cm x L 32.6cm x H 2.4cm
Set includes: 17 types of incense (6 sticks each), one long incense tray (celadon)
Burn time: approximately 20–30 minutes per stick

Care ＆ Use

  • Light the tip of the incense, then gently extinguish the flame to allow it to smolder.
  • Place the incense in a secure holder on a heat-resistant surface to catch the ash.
  • Allow the delicate fragrance to unfurl and fill your space.
  • Avoid placing near drafts or flammable objects.
  • Even after the visible smoke fades, the ember may remain—please handle with care.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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Japanese Incense: A Fragrant Journey Through Time

Japanese incense, known as "kō," has been an integral part of the nation's cultural and spiritual tapestry for over a millennium. Its introduction dates back to 595 CE when a log of fragrant agarwood drifted ashore on Awaji Island and was presented to Empress Suiko. This event marked the beginning of incense's profound influence in Japan, closely intertwined with the advent of Buddhism. Initially utilized in religious rituals to purify spaces and create a sanctified atmosphere, incense soon permeated various facets of Japanese life. 

By the Heian period (794–1185), the aristocracy embraced the art of "takimono," blending aromatic substances to perfume their garments and surroundings, reflecting sophistication and aesthetic sensibility. The samurai class also adopted incense practices, using them for mental preparation before battles. This evolution culminated in the Muromachi period (1336–1573) with the establishment of "kōdō," the "Way of Incense," elevating its appreciation to a ceremonial art form alongside tea ceremonies and flower arranging. 

Today, Japanese incense is celebrated for its subtle, refined fragrances and the meditative experiences it fosters, distinguishing it from other global incense traditions.

Brand History

Founded in Kyoto, Kousaido draws on centuries of aromatic tradition to create incense that honors both ritual and relaxation. The brand is known for its commitment to natural ingredients, precise blending techniques, and an aesthetic that reflects the quiet beauty of Japanese culture. With each product, Kousaido seeks to evoke a sense of peace—whether through a moment of reflection or a fragrant accent to daily life. Their collections are inspired by the seasons, landscapes, and literature of Kyoto, grounding each scent in a deep sense of place.

Kousaido's incense ranges from classic sandalwood-based blends to floral, citrus, and green tea notes, appealing to both traditionalists and modern fragrance lovers. Each stick is designed not only to soothe the senses but also to serve as a quiet companion to daily rituals. Through craftsmanship and care, Kousaido continues to invite new generations into the serene world of Japanese incense, where even a moment of fragrance can leave a lasting impression.