Oldest Continuous Operating Company in the World Spanning More Than 1400 yrs And How its Doing Today

Kongo Gumi is a historic Japanese construction company, renowned for being the world’s oldest continuously operating business. Founded in 578 AD, it specializes in building and maintaining Buddhist temples. Originating from a lineage started by Shigemitsu Kongo, a Korean craftsman, the company has a legacy spanning over 1,440 years. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and deep-rooted traditions in temple construction, Kongo Gumi represents a unique intersection of cultural heritage and business resilience. Despite financial challenges in the early 21st century leading to its acquisition by Takamatsu Construction Group, Kongo Gumi continues to uphold its specialized craft in temple construction, symbolizing a remarkable journey through Japan’s historical and societal transformations.