Begin your journey in Sagano, Arashiyama with a short introduction from your English-speaking guide, who will walk you through the flow of the experience before you step into the world of classical Kyoto. Your destination is Tenkodo Sagano, a long-established incense specialty shop where the culture of fragrance has been carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

As you enter, you’ll be invited to imagine the refined atmosphere of the Heian Period, when Kyoto was the heart of aristocratic life and elegance was expressed through every detail of daily living. Through engaging explanations, you’ll learn about the customs of the nobility—how they dressed, what they ate, and the kind of spaces they lived in—while discovering the unique role incense played in shaping their sense of beauty and sophistication. In Heian society, fragrance was more than a pleasant scent; it became a cultural statement, a way to express individuality and charm, and an essential part of a noble’s refined lifestyle.

The highlight of the experience is an incense-making workshop where you will create your own powder incense using materials and techniques preserved since the Heian era. This is a rare opportunity to connect with an art form that has long been valued in Japan, and to experience how scents can tell stories, evoke memories, and convey personality. As you work, you’ll hear about the history of incense, the origins of fragrant woods—many of which are imported—and the distinctive characteristics of different scents. With your guide’s support and interpretation during the workshop, even first-time participants can enjoy the process with confidence and curiosity.

After crafting your incense, you’ll have time for questions and conversation, allowing you to deepen your understanding of what you experienced and learned. You can also enjoy some shopping time in the store, where you may find unique incense-related items that make a meaningful souvenir from Kyoto.

To conclude, enjoy a boating experience—an elegant pastime once favored by Heian aristocrats. As you take in the atmosphere of Arashiyama, you’ll finish the day with a memorable cultural moment that connects the refined traditions of the past with the beauty of Kyoto today.