KAMAKURA CHAPTER ＃51 JAPAN

18 September, 2025
Chapter Meeting
What an educational way to kick off our new season on September 28, 2025,
with a lecture from Dr. Aurelijus Zykas, the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Japan.
Dr. Zykas is a renowned Japanologist and academic, with years of studies into the diplomacy of the relationships between Japan and Lithuania. Holding a doctorate from Vytautas Magnus University, Dr. Zykas has taught at the university and was the Head of their Centre for Asian Studies, and he has impressive Japanese speaking skills!
We first held a chapter meeting, introducing the board members and welcoming new Ikebana members. We enjoyed a tasty bento lunch and camaraderie before the lecture. Dr. Zykas’ lecture included a brief history of Lithuania, as well as stories of connections to Japan through the humanitarian work of Chiune Sugihara during World War II.
What a great way to start the new season, at the lovely Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura.

20 November, 2025
Demonstration Chapter Meeting　　Kajiinomiya Goryu
Ikebana Demonstration by Ms. Socho Fujiwara, Headmistress of Kajiinomiya Goryu and Japanese Tea Service.
Ms. Fujiwara demonstrated five flower arrangements, plus two others she donated to the temple. She introduced us to autumn flowers that complement each other during this special time of the year, when the weather is cooling down and it’s very pleasant to be outside. She also demonstrated Christmas theme arrangements.
We had a lovely bento lunch and tea ceremony by Professor Mori Masako and her students.
We were joined in attendance by Mrs. Momoe Fritz, spouse of the Micronesian Ambassador to Japan, Chisato Obikane, President of Ikebana International, and Momoyo Shimatani, Tokyo Founding Chapter President.