Back to Kyoto, And Back to the Home of a Fragrance That Took USA by Storm

Glasshouse Fragrances Founder Nicole Eckels Returns to the Place That Inspired Kyoto in Bloom

Fragrance is memory. When Glasshouse Fragrances Founder Nicole Eckels first visited Japan as a teenager, she was captivated by the country’s beauty, contrasts, and its ability to surprise you around every corner. Years later, that same inspiration became the heartbeat of two of our most beloved fragrances: Kyoto in Bloom and A Moment in Tokyo.

On a recent return to Japan, Nicole retraced her steps, adding new memories to old favorites - and this time, she brought her fragrances home.

Gregory’s presence made the journey even more special. "Seeing Kyoto through his eyes gave everything new life," Nicole says.

"A favorite memory in Japan - eating ramen at a little street stall with Gregory. It wasn’t fancy, but it was perfect. Those are the moments that stick with you - real, delicious, and totally unfiltered."

The trip was a sensory celebration.

From lantern-lit alleyways in Shinpontocho to peaceful boat rides through the old town, Kyoto felt both familiar and brand new.

Nicole explored food stalls, took in the bustle of the riverside near Gion, and dined at unforgettable local spots.

"The service at Hamacho was impeccable. The food felt both exciting and comforting - just like fragrance should be."

"From the moment you walk in, you can feel the history and the care that goes into every detail. It’s the kind of spot that makes you slow down and appreciate the artistry of both the food and the experience. Definitely one of those places that stays with you long after you leave." 

Every moment was a reminder of the power of scent: to ground us in the present, transport us to the past, and spark joy in the everyday.

Kyoto in Bloom Eau de Parfum is Nicole's ode to the city she fell in love with.
With notes of Camellia, Lotus, Amber, and Cherry Blossom, it captures both the elegance and spirit of Kyoto.

Kyoto: Where Fragrance Blossoms

“Wearing Kyoto in Bloom Eau de Parfum in Kyoto... full circle moment. This fragrance was born here and I am still so obsessed all these years later.”

Kyoto is a city where time slows down. Nicole's travels took her to quiet riversides near Gion, where young women in kimonos sat chatting beneath the late afternoon sun. She wandered the narrow alleys of Shinpontocho, lit by soft lanterns and echoing with the hum of conversation from hidden izakayas.

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"Standing amongst all this color and energy on the streets of Shibuya. All captured inside this fragrance... a pinch me moment."

In Tokyo, contrast reigns. Nicole found herself lost in the electric pulse of Golden Gai, hopping between tiny yakitori stalls, neon signs buzzing above. One night, she visited the infamous "Deathmatch in Hell" horror bar in Shinjuku - a place that, while unexpected, reminded her of Tokyo's spirit: wild, unapologetic, and full of surprises.

“Golden Gai is pure magic - tiny alleyways & neon lights. I love hopping from yakitori stall to yakitori stall, watching the chefs work their grill magic.”

A Moment in Tokyo is her tribute to this kaleidoscopic city. Blending Rose Petals, Incense, and Black Tea, it's bold, mysterious, and thoroughly modern - a scent made for turning heads. Inspiration, Bottled

"Sitting at a sushi counter in Japan, watching the chef work - it’s like performance art. Every movement is precise, thoughtful, and full of respect for the ingredients. I remember thinking, ‘this is what I love about our fragrances’ - considered, delicate, and totally unforgettable."

Nicole believes fragrance is memory. Her journey through Japan was more than a holiday - it was a sensory experience that reaffirmed everything Glasshouse Fragrances stands for: craftsmanship, artistry, and the magic of scent.

Whether you're lighting Kyoto in Bloom to bring a sense of peace or wearing A Moment in Tokyo to feel powerful and inspired, these fragrances are more than just beautiful scents - they're moments, captured.

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