Shikun - Imperial Purple

At a Glance: Agarwood - Spiced Resin Depth - Fruity Wood - Warm Incense Smoke - Complex - Rich - Energetic

Length: 14cm Burn Time: ~25 minutes

Main Notes / Character:
A vibrant agarwood-focused incense with a spiced, slightly fruity profile. It opens sharp and energetic, with dry woody resin and a noticeable spicy lift. As it develops, deeper agarwood richness comes through, warm, slightly sweet, and resinous. Compared to more meditative woods in the range, Shikun feels more expressive and dynamic, with a noticeable contrast between brightness, spice, and deeper woody base. It can read slightly smoky or assertive in character, making it more suited to attentive burning rather than background use. 

History / Lineage:
Shikun is part of Yamadamatsu’s Premium incense range from Kyoto, a house with origins in Edo-period incense, herbal medicine, and fragrant wood trade. This line focuses on expressive kōboku (aromatic wood) compositions, especially agarwood, blended with traditional herbs and spices to highlight depth, contrast, and movement within the fragrance. 

Meaning behind the Name:
“Shikun” (紫薫) is often associated with “purple fragrance” or noble aroma imagery in Japanese incense naming, symbolising refinement, depth, and richness, reflecting its bold, layered aloeswood character.