What is HanaYou and what do you offer?

At HanaYou, we help you slow down and reconnect with nature through ikebana—the Japanese art of flower arrangement. From our studio in Kyoto to our online Ikebana Journal that you can enjoy from anywhere, we share a gentle, seasonal practice designed to fit real homes and real life.

Is HanaYou a traditional ikebana school?

While our founder has studied Misho-ryu Ikebana for many years, HanaYou itself stands apart from any fixed lineage. HanaYou blends the philosophy and history of ikebana with approachability for the newcomer. We honor tradition, but we teach with freedom.

Who teaches the ikebana classes at HanaYou?

Ryoko Arnwine, the founder and ikebana practitioner behind HanaYou, leads each class. With a floral career spanning more than 15 years in Japan and New York City, she brings her extensive experience in traditional and modern, Asian and Western practices to customers at HanaYou. Meet Ryoko »

Can I learn ikebana with HanaYou if I’m not in Japan?

Yes. Through the HanaYou Ikebana Journal, you can receive stories, how-tos, and seasonal reflections, along with the option to add one-on-one remote instruction.

What is ikebana and how is it different from Western floral design?

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Unlike Western floristry, ikebana emphasizes minimalism, asymmetry, and the negative space between elements. It’s not just decorative — it’s expressive. At HanaYou, we bring a strong influence from the Misho-ryu school of ikebana, which puts an emphasis on patterning arrangements on nature itself.

Can beginners learn ikebana without any floral experience?

Absolutely. At HanaYou, we guide complete beginners and experienced floral designers alike. Many of our guests are beginners. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are the only prerequisites to get started.

FAQ

Answers about our Kyoto ikebana classes and online newsletter, including booking, lessons, and ikebana basics.

What is HanaYou and what do you offer?: At HanaYou, we help you slow down and reconnect with nature through ikebana—the Japanese art of flower arrangement. From our studio in Kyoto to our online Ikebana Journal that you can enjoy from anywhere, we share a gentle, seasonal practice designed to fit real homes and real life.
Is HanaYou a traditional ikebana school?: While our founder has studied Misho-ryu Ikebana for many years, HanaYou itself stands apart from any fixed lineage. HanaYou blends the philosophy and history of ikebana with approachability for the newcomer. We honor tradition, but we teach with freedom.
Who teaches the ikebana classes at HanaYou?: Ryoko Arnwine, the founder and ikebana practitioner behind HanaYou, leads each class. With a floral career spanning more than 15 years in Japan and New York City, she brings her extensive experience in traditional and modern, Asian and Western practices to customers at HanaYou. Meet Ryoko »
Can I learn ikebana with HanaYou if I’m not in Japan?: Yes. Through the HanaYou Ikebana Journal, you can receive stories, how-tos, and seasonal reflections, along with the option to add one-on-one remote instruction.
What is ikebana and how is it different from Western floral design?: Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Unlike Western floristry, ikebana emphasizes minimalism, asymmetry, and the negative space between elements. It’s not just decorative — it’s expressive. At HanaYou, we bring a strong influence from the Misho-ryu school of ikebana, which puts an emphasis on patterning arrangements on nature itself.
Can beginners learn ikebana without any floral experience?: Absolutely. At HanaYou, we guide complete beginners and experienced floral designers alike. Many of our guests are beginners. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are the only prerequisites to get started.