fragrant smell of grain, aromatic
薌 centers on a pleasant, distinctive scent, especially the fragrant smell of grain. It describes something aromatic or sweet-smelling.
薌 combines 艹 (grass/plant) with 鄉, which likely contributes the sound. The plant radical suggests a connection to fragrant plants or grains.
The grass radical 艹 sits above 鄉, like fragrant grain plants growing in a village. Imagine the sweet smell of harvested grain filling the air.
For キョウ, picture a fragrant grain field in Kyoto (キョウト). The scent of grain is so strong it reminds you of the ancient capital: Kyoto -> キョウ.