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Eau de parfum
Kohshi Upstream
Gender:
Unisex
Segment:
Lux perfumes
Fragrance information:
Kohshi Upstream — Fragrance Character
Kohshi Upstream is a unisex perfume launched in 2021 by the Japanese brand Kohshi.
It is an eau de parfum with an expressive citrus-green profile, combining freshness with floral and woody-mossy nuances.
The fragrance belongs to the Kilesa collection and is designed for those who enjoy clean, energetic and noticeable compositions without a strict gender identity.
Upstream’s character reflects a distinctly Japanese pursuit of balance: its bright opening gradually becomes more transparent, then gains green depth before finishing with a warm amber-woody accent.
At the same time, the composition does not feel simple or linear — on the skin, it evolves from sparkling freshness to cool minerality and then to a soft mossy base.
Structure and Development
The top notes create a dynamic impulse: bergamot, grapefruit, lemon and lime sound juicy, clean and remarkably vibrant.
In the heart, jasmine, rose and ylang-ylang join the citrus freshness, while sage and tarragon add a spicy-green nuance.
An ozonic accord heightens the sense of air and coolness, like after rain or in an open space.
The base gradually becomes calmer and denser.
Amber gives it gentle warmth, oakmoss adds earthy depth, vetiver brings a dry woody-rooty nuance, and musk makes the trail more cohesive and smooth.
Thanks to this transition, the fragrance retains its fresh character without disappearing from perception too quickly.
Notes and Olfactory Profile
Kohshi Upstream’s olfactory palette brings together citrus, floral and green motifs.
Bergamot, grapefruit, lemon and lime are responsible for the radiant opening; ozonic notes create a mineral-airy effect, while sage and tarragon sustain the fresh herbal facet.
The floral component is built around jasmine, rose and ylang-ylang, keeping the composition soft and elegant without becoming overtly sweet.
In the finish, amber, oakmoss, vetiver and musk form a warm, slightly dry and noticeable base.
Overall, the fragrance belongs to the citrus, floral and green families, while also touching on aromatic, mineral, woody, musky, amber and white-floral accords.
Longevity, Sillage and Wearability
Kohshi Upstream is rated as having a very strong sillage, making the composition a good choice for those who enjoy noticeable fragrances and want to leave a distinctive impression.
Its fresh citrus opening makes it especially appealing in warm weather, while the mossy-amber base also allows it to be worn in spring, early autumn and on cool evenings.
Upstream is suitable for the city, walks, travel and occasions when you want to emphasize energy and individuality.
Given its stated high intensity, it is best to start with a small number of sprays and assess how it develops on your own skin.
Specific dosage recommendations for skin and clothing are not provided, so the optimal amount should be determined gradually, taking temperature, fabric and personal sensitivity to sillage into account.
The Perfumer and the Fragrance’s Place in the Brand’s Style
The composition was created by Hidenori Matsuno. In Upstream, his work is expressed through the contrast between sparkling citrus notes, a cool ozonic effect and a deep natural base.
This approach makes the fragrance modern, fresh and expressive at the same time — a distinctive take on unisex perfumery, where clarity of scent meets a rich presence.
For Kohshi, this release is an important example of the Japanese brand’s signature approach to eau de parfum: the composition is not limited to a single fresh note, but unfolds fully from a bright opening to a dry mossy-woody finish.
If you would like to compare Upstream’s mood with other fragrances, take a look at Balmain Vent Vert. However, Kohshi Upstream stands out for its more prominent ozonic accent and particularly powerful sillage.
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