Nippon Kado Koryu

Nippon Kadō Koryū (日本古流花道) is one of Japan’s oldest and most esteemed schools of ikebana, founded in 1920 by Tsuruta Ichiyō in Yamanashi Prefecture. Guided by the principle that “Ikebana is the spiritual reflection of oneself,” the school combines classical traditions with modern techniques. Its signature styles include seika, a classical form highlighting the inherent beauty of natural materials; moribana, a contemporary style reflecting evolving Japanese lifestyles and often arranged in shallow containers; and nageire, offering informal arrangements often displayed in tea rooms. Practitioners work with a variety of containers, ranging from bronze vases (usubata) and ceramic to bamboo, in shapes such as slim vertical vases, boats, stirrups (abumi), and moon shapes.

The school emphasises careful structure and shaping, mastering techniques like hana kubari, a Y-shaped stick for support in seika arrangements, and hana kanzashi, attaching small sticks to stabilize stems in nageire. Tameru, gentle bending, and kiri dame, partial cuts fitted with wedges, ensure precise form. These methods, combined with thoughtful use of containers and tools, create arrangements that are both visually striking and technically refined, reflecting a harmonious balance of tradition, artistry, and creativity.

Learn more about Nippon Kadō Koryū at nihonkoryu.org

Nippon Kado Koryu Ikebana by Sumie Takahashi