Latest from the Journal
From Temple to Table: an Ikebana Journey in Kyoto
We go from Rokkaku-dō temple to a Kyoto Sanjo flower shop. Then from the Kamo River to the HanaYou Ikebana Studio.
HanaYou Ikebana Journal
Seasonal notes from Ryoko's Kyoto studio on ikebana, flowers, tools, and Japanese culture. Read along from anywhere, or use these stories to plan a deeper ikebana experience in Kyoto.
Branches in ikebana: finding the optimal direction
Learn how to identify the natural front and back of a branch. Also, a reflection on a hina doll exhibition in Kyoto.
Setsubun and Risshun: the changing of the seasons
A trip to the Kyoto Botanical Garden and to a shrine for Setsubun as we start to use spring flowers for ikebana.
What the Narcissus means in Japan
Thoughts on seasonal flowers as "omotenashi" and Suisen (Narcissus), the "immortal sage of the river.”
New Year Ikebana in Kyoto: Pine, Bamboo, Plum
A year-end ikebana journal from Kyoto exploring Japanese New Year traditions, pine-bamboo-plum symbolism, and a seasonal arrangement how-to.