Listening to Scent: Thank You for Joining Our KODO Sessions in Los Angeles

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for Listening to Scent: The Art of KODO, a special series of workshops held across Los Angeles this March. Your presence, curiosity, and thoughtful participation made these gatherings truly meaningful.

The program ran from March 7 through March 15, 2026, bringing together participants across three unique venues to experience the traditional Japanese Way of Incense. Throughout the series, guests had the opportunity to slow down, focus their senses, and engage with incense in a contemplative and intentional way.

Across each location - including sessions at the Institute for Art and Olfaction, Tortoise General Store, and the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center - participants explored the art of “listening” to scent through guided instruction and shared ritual. Participants also experienced the Genjikō incense game, inspired by The Tale of Genji, which invites players to distinguish subtle differences between fragrances while engaging with centuries-old cultural traditions. 

We were especially grateful to see such enthusiasm for KODO throughout the city. These sessions sold out quickly, and it was a pleasure to welcome both newcomers and those already familiar with the practice. Opportunities to experience KODO outside of Japan are rare, and we are honored to have shared this unique cultural tradition with such an attentive and open-minded community.

Moments of stillness, reflection, and sensory awareness are at the heart of KODO. We hope the experience continues to resonate with you - whether through a renewed appreciation for scent, mindfulness in daily life, or curiosity about the cultural traditions that surround the art of incense.

Stay Connected for Future Events
If you would like to hear about upcoming programs and future KODO experiences, we invite you to subscribe to our newsletter at: www.kodous.org. Subscribing is the best way to stay informed about new workshops, cultural programs, and announcements.

Share Your Thoughts
We also encourage everyone to share their thoughts, reflections, and photos on social media. Whether you attended one of the sessions or are simply inspired by the art of KODO, hearing your impressions helps us grow this community and continue sharing the beauty of this tradition with new audiences.

You can tag and follow us here:
Instagram: @u.s._kodo_initiative, @nipponkodo_usa
Facebook: @NipponKodoUSA
TikTok: @nipponkodo

Thank you again for being part of Listening to Scent: The Art of KODO. We are deeply grateful for your support and look forward to welcoming you to future programs as we continue sharing the traditions and beauty of KODO.

The Japan-U.S. KODO Initiative
Hosted in partnership with Nippon Kodo