The company mainly works on the design, construction, restoration, and repair of shrines, temples, castles, and cultural heritage buildings.

While Kongō Gumi historically specialized in traditional architecture, increased competition from major construction companies due to the growing use of concrete in shrines and temples resulted in the company becoming a subsidiary of the Takamatsu Construction Group in January 2006.

[8] Kongō Gumi was one of the first construction companies in Japan to use concrete with wood to build temples after the Meiji Restoration.

[citation needed] The company fell on hard times and went into liquidation in January 2006, and was purchased by the Takamatsu Construction Group.

As of December 2024[update], Kongō Gumi continues to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Takamatsu Construction Group.

[9] In 578, Kongō Shikō, one of the three Miyadaiku (specialized carpenters who build shrines and temples) invited from Baekje by Prince Shōtoku[citation needed] to construct Shitennō-ji, founds the company.

In July 2007, they[clarification needed] acquired all the shares of Nakamura Shaji, a company undergoing civil rehabilitation.