The history of Utena Co., Ltd. began when the founder Masakichi Kubo opened the “Tenjindo Pharmacy” in Hongo, Tokyo in 1912. The company launched not only the sales of pharmaceuticals but also the development of cosmetics, establishing and starting the operation of the plant in Minami-Karasuyama of Setagawa Ward where the present headquarters is located, with a strong belief that “good environment and clean water are needed for the cosmetics products which will be applied directly to the skin.

“Utena”, which is the corporate name, means the calyx of a flower. It is an inconspicuous and invisible part of the flower. Yet, for a flower to bloom naturally balancing and beautifully, calyx is essential and important. That is exactly our philosophy of establishment expressing the calyx of a flower as a motif, “We would like to become the foundation supporting what are beautiful”. As there are various flowers, so are various personalities in humans, which we would like to support so that the human charms will be maximized. We will not forget that is our mission and will always challenge new fronts and continue to provide valuable human care products which can be useful in your daily lives. It may not be the flashiness, but it will be so that we will have “not-yet-achieved beauty” come into bloom.

Lastly, we will have our 100 th anniversary in 2027. We won’t be able to walk in our path for such a long time without the support of our customers, and our vendors who have supported us for many years, employees and their family members. We will continue to value our corporate philosophy “Truth, Goodness and Beauty – contribute to the society wholeheartedly and be pleased by satisfying customers”, as well as sincerely tackle everything with the feeling of gratitude and share thrilling moments with you.

President and CEO Motoaki Tagashira