Members of Ikebana International Chapter 71 generously provide Shofuso with beautiful floral arrangements, adding to the authenticity and beauty of our historic site.  Our annual ikebana exhibition expands on these installations to provide a floral extravaganza, showcasing several styles of ikebana arrangements for the public to enjoy.

What is Ikebana?

Ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arranging.  Ikebana is a disciplined art form which focuses not just the arrangement of blossoms, but also other areas of the plant, such as stems and leaves.  Ikebana places important in the shape, line, and form of the arrangement, as well as consideration of the containers and exterior elements of the arrangement.

About Ikebana International

Ikebana International, founded by the late Ellen Gordon Allen in 1956, is a non-profit, cultural organization dedicated to the promotion of the art of Japanese flower arranging. Her vision was to unite people of the world through their mutual love of nature and enjoyment of ikebana.

Ikebana International boasts over 8,000 members in more than 50 countries.  Ikebana International is not a specific school of ikebana, but a consortium of members of all nationalities from many different ikebana schools. Some schools emphasize classical styles, others stress creative, contemporary forms while still others focus on blending the two. All schools openly share their inspirations, styles, philosophies and histories as well as techniques with other Ikebana International members.