Kōdō (way of fragrance)

Kōdō, meaning "Way of Fragrance," is a traditional Japanese art form centered on appreciating and experiencing the subtlety of incense. Practitioners select, light, and savor specific aromatic blends, often during ceremonial gatherings. It emphasizes sensitivity to scent, the mood it creates, and the mindful experience of fragrances, blending aesthetics, spirituality, and cultural tradition. Unlike perfumery aimed at personal scent or perfumes, Kōdō is more meditative, focusing on the deep appreciation of incense’s fleeting aroma and the harmony it fosters between the senses and the environment.