KITOWA

KITOWA is Japan's first maison fragrance brand, born in 2018, that merges traditional Japanese wooden natural oils with perfume-grade fragrances. KITOWA treasures the scents of trees integral to Japanese life, such as Hinoki (Japanese cypress), Hiba (Japanese arborvitae), and Kusunoki (camphor tree), known for their calming and soothing properties. With a background from Japan's historic leading incense company, a company that has preserved the traditional incense-making techniques and the history and culture of fragrances for over 450 years since the 16th century, KITOWA inherits and shares Japanese fragrance culture with the world.

Japanese Fragrance Culture

Kodo, the Japanese art of appreciating the scent of various types of incense wood, mainly produced in Southeast Asia, holds a significant place in Japanese culture. Kodo cherishes the spirit of Zen, involving numerous protocols related to etiquette and behavior. Proficiency in Kodo requires an appreciation of classical literature and calligraphy, yet its essence lies in the simple enjoyment of the fragrance itself. In Kodo, smelling incense is described as "listening" to its scent, a term preferred over "smelling" to avoid insensitivity. This practice includes Monko, the appreciation of incense scents, and Kumiko, a game of distinguishing between them. The use of "listening" implies a modern interpretation of engaging with nature and the Earth through the scents of incense woods, promoting unity with nature and introspection.

KITOWA Products

KITOWA offers a range of products, including eau de parfum, cosmetics, and home fragrances, that elegantly elevate the natural scents of Japanese woods. With a 450-year history, KITOWA excels in sourcing fragrance ingredients globally, particularly excelling in the quality and quantity of kyara (agarwood), jinkoh (aloeswood), and byakudan (sandalwood). These MADE IN JAPAN fragrances captivate both domestic and international markets by providing an elegant olfactory journey through Japan's natural landscapes.

A lit black scented candle made of Arita ware, offering a relaxing wooden scent.

KITOWA's Fragrance Philosophy and Manufacturing Process

At the heart of KITOWA's creation process is a commitment to natural ingredients and traditional craftsmanship. The brand's philosophy avoids synthetic fragrances, preferring rare natural aromatics and focusing on the scents of Japanese woods to create luxurious and pleasant fragrances. KITOWA's incense sticks are meticulously handcrafted by artisans, based on 450 years of inherited incense-making techniques, from the blending of raw materials and fragrances to kneading, drying, and finishing.

KITOWA's Signature Fragrances

KITOWA's signature fragrances feature aromatic trees that have been part of Japanese history, such as Hinoki, Hiba, and Kusunoki. Hinoki from Mie Prefecture, used in the reconstruction of the Ise Grand Shrine, is prized for its rich aroma and beautiful white wood. Hiba from Aomori Prefecture, known for its durability and stress-relieving properties, is considered one of Japan's three great beauties of the forest. Kusunoki from Yakushima, Kagoshima, is cherished for its refreshing scent and is nicknamed "the medicine tree." KITOWA uses these natural aromatic materials generously to deliver unique fragrances that provide a tranquil and elegant olfactory experience.

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