An ideal scent is not one that everyone must like. Individual psychological and physiological differences — cultural background, mental and physical state, etc. — mean olfactory aesthetics are inherently subjective. Different people perceive the same scent differently, and every fragrance has its own audience. So in the vast world of smells, what counts as an ideal scent? After experiencing more than 100 fragrances, we identified three features:

First, fundamental harmony. These accords generally transition naturally and are rounded and delicate. Harmonious beauty helps people relax and isn’t limited by individual preferences — for example, classic lychee rose. If, when testing a scent, you’re hit by chemical or alcohol notes or notice an overpowering element stealing the show, trust your nose: it doesn’t belong to the realm of ideal scents.

Second, a clear theme and layers. Built on harmony, these scents can be described in one or two concrete sentences that capture their core image, and they show distinct evolution over time. For example, you might perceive a “moody” Don Quixote: warm leather with a hint of cold metallicness conjuring an isolated brave figure in tall boots riding a donkey and brandishing a short sword. But if a fragrance only smells pleasant without evoking any imagery, it clearly doesn’t belong to this advanced category of ideal scents.

Third, a sense of story. These fragrances not only spark imagination but also evoke emotions — joy or sorrow — and faded memories, the well-known Proustian effect; in other words, the scent is imbued with soul. Scents in this category are rare and serendipitous.

If a fragrance meets any of the above characteristics, it can be considered an ideal scent. JIYU focuses on ideal fragrances and collaborates with independent perfumers worldwide to create purely natural space fragrances. You are welcome to try and purchase them.