NEWS
2026-04-08Fragrance Expo 2026 Opens on April 18 (Incense Day) — Experience the Art of Fragrance in Ginza, Kyoto, and Kamakura
Theme for 2026: "Scents Connecting to Tomorrow – Where Scents Meet Tomorrow"
Fragrance Expo 2026, an event dedicated to experiencing Japan’s rich incense culture, will take place for one month from Saturday, April 18 (Incense Day) to Sunday, May 17, 2026. Now in its third year, the expo is expanding to three areas—Ginza, Kyoto, and Kamakura—with Kamakura joining the lineup for the first time.
In addition to the organizers, Kyukyodo, Shoeido, and Nippon Kodo, the event welcomes back MUJI Ginza and MUJI Kyoto BAL. Furthermore, Kito Tenkundo will make its debut in the Kamakura area.
The 2026 theme is "Scents Connecting to Tomorrow – Where Scents Meet Tomorrow." As AI and digital technologies evolve, shifting the way we live and communicate, "scent" is gaining renewed attention as a profound sensory experience.
Fragrance Expo is a cultural event where visitors can immerse themselves in Japan’s ancient incense traditions. The program features a stamp rally across various fragrance shops, hands-on workshops such as incense ceremonies (kodo) and sachet-making, special exhibitions at participating stores, and the sale of exclusive Fragrance Expo incense.
Through four core experiences—"Exploring," "Listening to," "Creating," and "Enjoying" scent—visitors can savor the tranquil moments and sense of mindfulness that fragrance brings to the body and soul.
In line with this year's theme, the three historic incense houses—Kyukyodo, Shoeido, and Nippon Kodo—have collaborated to create a limited-edition series: "TRINEX <Future Three Scents>." These three unique fragrances, each reflecting the distinct character of its maker while harmonizing toward the future, will be available starting April 18.
