Ikebana is the art of arranging flowers and plants in a container to create a work of art. Originally, these arrangements were offerings made to Buddha by monks. Today, however, ikebana has become a cultural practice enjoyed by people of all ages and genders, with many taking it up as a hobby that enriches their daily lives.

Ikebana may seem challenging at first, as learning its techniques often involves lessons and the use of special tools, but it can be incorporated into everyday life with ease. You can display your arrangements in your home’s entrance to welcome guests or in the living room where your family gathers. Bringing Ikebana arrangements into your daily routine can offer a sense of calm and fill your days with a greater sense of fulfilment.

The two approaches are quite different. Flower arranging is often called the “aesthetics of addition,” meaning it uses many flowers to fill the space. Ikebana, on the other hand, is known as the “aesthetics of subtraction,” creating beauty by using as few flowers and leaves as possible and appreciating the elegance of empty space.

Absolutely! Most beginners don’t have any tools yet, so it’s perfectly fine to come with nothing. The class will provide all the tools you need. But if you do have items like flower scissors, feel free to bring them and I will let you know whether they can be used for future lessons.

All flowers and plants are provided in my classes. I  prepare everything—flowers, branches, leaves, and more—according to the day’s lesson, so you can simply show up and enjoy. Part of the joy of ikebana is discovering what materials you’ll get to use. Sometimes you may even work with seasonal or unusual items that aren’t typically found in everyday arrangements.
In more advanced classes, students may bring their own materials, and special lessons that require specific items may include an additional flower fee. However, this is always discussed and agreed upon in advance.