DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
2025.03.21
A historic shop specializing in traditional Japanese cultural items such as incense, brushes, and ink.
address
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Tokyo Kyukyodo is a historic store specializing in traditional Japanese calligraphy supplies and incense. Established in Kyoto in 1663 during the Edo period, it still holds the prestigious title of "Purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency." The shop offers a diverse selection of Japanese stationery, including washi paper, chiyogami, origami, and letter paper, making it an ideal place for those seeking authentic Japanese souvenirs.
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Located in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo Kyukyodo offers an extensive selection of traditional Japanese stationery, including washi paper, origami, letter paper, and postcards, as well as essential calligraphy supplies like incense, brushes, and ink. Upholding the philosophy of "preserving and nurturing Japanese tradition," the first floor mainly features Japanese stationery, while the second floor offers a comprehensive selection of incense, brushes, and ink. The store's entrance display is adorned with seasonal decorations, allowing visitors to experience the essence of Japanese aesthetics.
The first-floor space is lined with paper products such as washi paper and origami. The sign displayed above the shelves bears the phrase "筆研紙墨皆極精良," meaning "All brushes, inkstones, paper, and ink are of the finest quality."
Experience high-quality brushes made from goat and horse hair.
Pick up a good quality brush made of sheep or horse hair.
"Kyukyodo" was founded in Kyoto in 1663. At that time, Japan was in the Edo period, and the incense produced by Kyukyodo was presented to the Imperial Family. This tradition has been preserved to this day. When the capital was relocated from Kyoto to Tokyo, Kyukyodo also expanded to Tokyo. The current flagship store in Ginza is situated along a street that leads to the Imperial Palace. The street in front of the store, called "Miyuki-dori," was named after the fact that the Emperor once used it for commuting to school, enhancing the location's historical significance.
The store was first established in Ginza 5-chome around 1880 and was later renovated in 1924. In 1965, the Ginza main store was relocated and redesigned, with another renovation following in 1982, shaping its present form.
Tokyo Kyukyodo Co., Ltd. Director & Ginza Store Manager, Michio Tamura.
The incense at Tokyo Kyukyodo holds the distinguished "Purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency" designation and is crafted using natural aromatic ingredients. Known for its soothing fragrance, the scent gradually evolves over time, adding to its allure. The shop also offers a wide selection of calligraphy supplies, including brushes and ink, making it an excellent choice for those interested in starting sumi-e (ink painting) or calligraphy. Additionally, its variety of washi paper and origami make for popular Japanese souvenirs. Expert staff members are available in-store to provide detailed explanations about the products, ensuring that even beginners can shop with confidence.
Kyukyodo’s signature incense, incense sticks, and sachets are crafted using a unique blending technique rooted in traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Their distinctive and elegant fragrances are a hallmark of Japan’s incense-making heritage.
Kyukyodo’s original incense, crafted from natural aromatic ingredients, is known for its calming fragrance and wide variety of scents. From left: Incense "Sakura" 1,320 yen, "Suzuran" 1,540 yen, "Tefutefu" 1,650 yen, "Rose" 1,540 yen.
An array of brushes displayed at the back of the second floor. With different thicknesses, lengths, and materials, visitors can choose the most suitable brush for their needs. From left: Brush "Shinpin Kiryuu No. 4" 7,700 yen, "Shinpin Kiryuu No. 5" 6,600 yen, etc.
A selection of letter paper, envelopes, and postcards. Those featuring Ginza-themed designs are particularly popular as souvenirs. From left: Notepad 418 yen, Postcard 121 yen, Letter paper 495 yen, Envelope 440 yen, Letter paper - 1,100 yen, Envelope 660 yen.
Chiyogami origami, also a popular souvenir, contains 20 sheets each of patterned and plain-colored paper. The beautiful Japanese designs make them enjoyable to display as decorations.Handmade Chiyogami Paper 1,320 yen.
The information contained this article was correct as of 03/21/2025 (the time of publication)
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