Japan has a long and fascinating history of cosmetic rouge, or beni, as it was called during its rise in popularity during the Edo period (1603-1867). Made with natural pigment extracted from crushed safflower, beni makeup was traditionally used as lipstick or blush for centuries, before Western makeup was introduced during the Showa period, but modern day geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) still use this versatile product.
At this shop and free museum managed by the long-standing Isehan Honten makeup company, you can look at antique lipstick cases and 19th century makeup boxes as you learn about how beni makeup evolved over time, along with Japanese beauty trends. Shop for authentic products made the traditional way with natural safflower, or ask for a free application of beni lipstick to see which shade of red suits you best.