A scent is like a good cup of tea — it makes life feel better

What Is Ume? The Japanese Plum Blossom The Japanese plum — ume , also called mume plum  or Japanese apricot  — is known by this name in Japan, while in China it is called meihua . Ume begins to bloom while the weather is still cold, from early February until the end of March. It is a small, elegant tree with bright pink flowers and a yellow center that produces small green fruits by early June. The fruits of ume are almost never eaten raw because of their intensely sour taste

A Personal Story of Sakura, Japan, and the Beauty of the Ephemeral A long time ago, when I was about fourteen — long before I began to seriously explore the world of perfumery — sakura was, for me, the symbol of Japan and everything Japanese. For a girl from the distant north, it represented not so much Japanese culture itself — at that time I was only beginning to discover it — but rather everything cherished and unattainable. Something incredibly beautiful and far away, som

Looking for the best Valentine’s Day perfumes 2026  to make an unforgettable impression? I’ve curated my personal list of romantic and seductive fragrances for women — from niche luxury perfumes to irresistible date night scents with gentle cherry, rose, creamy gourmand, and skin-like musk accords, perfect for love, passion, and lasting sillage. There are evenings that ask for silk. For candlelight. For lowered voices and lingering glances. Valentine’s Day is one of them. It