Sakaimachi 101 incense, 60 sticks

At a glance

- Natural woods and aromatics; refined, precise character, minimal smoke
- 60 sticks, burns approx. 20 to 30 minutes each
- By Kungyokudo (薫玉堂), Kyoto, founded 1594; named after their historic shop address

The name comes from the address. Sakaimachi 101 (堺町101) is where Kungyokudo's main Kyoto shop has stood for centuries, a narrow frontage on a narrow street, the kind of place you walk past before realising what it is. This incense is named for that location and carries something of its character: tradition expressed with quiet confidence rather than ceremony.

Kungyokudo (薫玉堂) was founded in 1594 near Nishi Hongan-ji temple in Kyoto and is often cited as Japan's oldest continuing incense shop. Over four centuries, the house has refined its blending methods using natural woods and aromatics, producing incense with a restrained, precise character that reflects Kyoto's aesthetic sensibility. Sakaimachi 101 uses natural woods and aromatics to produce a refined aroma with minimal smoke, the kind of scent that works as well in a modern flat as it does in a traditional interior. Each stick burns for around 20 to 30 minutes, long enough to mark a work session, a reading hour, or the transition from afternoon to evening.