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Cool Down in Kyoto : Traditional Incense Making Experience

Kyoto, Japan 50m 5.0 · 21 reviews EN 5591601P24
Instant confirmation Free cancellation (24h) Mobile ticket Adults 13–99
Photos 6
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Overview

Create your own original Japanese incense in a traditional Kyoto setting.
In this hands on experience, you will blend natural fragrance ingredients to design a scent that reflects your personal taste and mood.

Incense has been part of Japanese culture for centuries, known as “Kodo” the Way of Incense.
Through this experience, you will not only create your own incense but also discover the cultural meaning and beauty behind it.

What makes this experience special:
Blend over 7 natural fragrance ingredients
Add your favorite aroma oil to create a unique scent
No rules design a fragrance that reflects you
Experience it inside a traditional Kyoto machiya
Relaxing and sensory experience for all travelers

What you get:
- Your own handmade incense sticks
- A one of a kind scent you created yourself
- A meaningful and memorable Kyoto souvenir

Tour at a glance

Duration
50m
01
Tour type
Group tour
up to 8 travellers per booking
02
Languages
EN
live guide
03
Pickup
Meet at start point
04
Operates
Every day
Starts 10:00, 11:30, 14:00, 15:30 +1
05
Confirmation
Instant
e-ticket by e-mail
06
Cancellation
Free up to 24h before
07
Traveller ages
Adults 13–99
08
Rating
5.0 / 5
21 verified reviews
09
Ticket
Mobile ticket
show it on your phone
10

What's included

  • Take-home handmade incense
  • All incense materials

What you'll do

Japanese incense craft in a traditional Kyoto Machiya Blend over 8 carefully selected natural ingredients with 4+ aroma oils to craft your own original incense, guided by the spirit of traditional Japanese fragrance culture.

Meeting & pickup

Everyone meets at the start point.

Our entrance is marked by a noren curtain with the “incense” logo.

Schedule

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 10:00, 11:30, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveller reviews

5.021 reviews
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21
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zacharypF1340XL Aug 2026 · Tripadvisor
Fun time

Mari was a great teacher, highly recommend her if you can choose! Was a cute little shop and a really unique experience!

allisonkQ2576AQ Jun 2026 · Tripadvisor
Lovely workshop off the beaten path...

This was a wonderful class that shared not only the process of making the incense but also the significance in Japanese culture. The staff were patient and the atmosphere was so calming. It was a rainy day and the entire feel of the workshop was serene and lovely. The location is tucked away in an artist filled alley making it an off the beaten path adventure.

adamsL946BE May 2026 · Tripadvisor
Great smelling incense with a fun guide

Mari was great guide to help us create our first incense. We enjoyed the experience and recommend it to others who like scents.

Maps62792737638 May 2026 · Tripadvisor
Great Experience

For a personal and awesome experience, paid a very reasonable fee. It was a private lesson and hands on activity in making a personal incense. It was about 50 minutes and was a fantastic time. The guide was incredibly nice and contributed to the experience.

amandajR9136AB May 2026 · Tripadvisor
One of a kind

Very welcoming. Nice atmosphere. Helpful, clear information and instructions. Loved learning about the use of incense and the meanings to each of the ingredients. Would absolutely recommend!

Lydia_J May 2026 · Viator
Definitely add this to your itinerary!

I would definitely recommend this activity when visiting Japan! It was hands on and very unique! Plus you got to take the product home with you! They understand and spoke English and Japanese! They were very friendly and kind! All around amazing experience!

Jami_L May 2026 · Viator
So fun!!

What a beautiful and unique experience! The instructor Mari made the experience soooo fun!! This is SUCH a hidden gem and EVERYONE should do this!!

Y144VVmichellet May 2026 · Tripadvisor
I’m an incense maker now!

This was such a fun class! It was a very close-knit experience with the instructor and it was fun getting to know both the instructor and other students. The class was very hands on and informative, and I’m really excited to make my own incense now. I’d love to come back and come with my friends too. Also a plus that it was located in such a small and sweet street.

Reviews are collected by Viator and Tripadvisor from verified travellers.

Frequently asked questions

How long does this experience last?

It lasts 50m.

Is hotel pickup included?

Everyone meets at the start point.

Can I cancel for free?

Yes. Cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Which languages is the guide available in?

Guide languages: EN

On which days does it run?

It runs Every day. Starts 10:00, 11:30, 14:00, 15:30 +1

How fast is the booking confirmed?

Instantly. Your e-ticket arrives by e-mail right after booking.

Is this a private tour?

No, this is a shared group experience.

Where do I complete the booking?

On viator.com, a Tripadvisor company, with live availability and secure payment. TourViaGo is a Global Partner of Viator.

Product code 5591601P24

Book on viator.com · Global Partner of Viator $34per person
Book now
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