Flower Arranging
Kado, which literally means "The Way of Flowers", is the Japanese art of arranging flowers. The practice started in ancient times when flowers were arranged as offerings to a god or Buddha. In the 15th or 16th century, a new style of architecture incorporating an alcove became popular, and it became tradition to place arranged flowers in the alcove to accentuate the room. Kyoto is also the home of Kado, and there are many flower arrangement schools with their heads actively supporting this traditional art.
Depending on the type of vase used (whether a shallow plate-shaped vase or jar-shaped vase), people use different styles of arranging flowers. Two of the most famous styles are "Moribana" (three-dimensional flower arranging) or "Nageire" (casually arranged flowers). "Moribana" usually requires "Kenzan" (needle point holder) and a pair of scissors specially designed for flower arranging.
The Japanese flower arrangement creates a harmony of linear construction, rhythm, and color. While western flower arrangements tend to place more emphasis on the beauty of blossoms itself, the Japanese arrangement emphasizes flowers and plants in their natural state as much as possible.
To enjoy flower arrangement, advance booking is essential as materials must be arranged in advance. Discover and enjoy the differences between arrangement in Japan and the West.
For further information, please visit the following websites.
WAK JAPAN
Address: 506-412 Iseya-cho, Kawaramachi Marutamachi sagaru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Tel: 075-212-9993 FAX: 075-212-9994
e-mail: wak@wakjapan.com
