Nankun Kodō

Nankun Kodō is a deeply contemplative and aromatic attar that captures the essence of traditional Japanese incense, particularly the smoky, woody, and spicy character of Shoyeido's Nankun Kodo. It opens with a humid, resinous core of cloves, star anise, cinnamon, and frankincense, layered over cypress and hinoki wood, creating a warm, atmospheric, and slightly herbal foundation. The fragrance evolves into a complex interplay of sweet-bitter notes, with marzipan-like nuttiness and a quiet, sticky sweetness that remains grounded in the woody-savory territory of oud and patchouli. The scent is not overt or flashy—it unfolds gradually, with a quiet sillage and a focus on depth and presence rather than projection. It feels synthetic in its precision, yet perfectly mimics the experience of burning incense in a serene temple environment.