Kobe Chapter #181　Japan

Demonstration Koryu Katabamikai

On January 17th, the New Year’s Party of Kobe Chapter was held at the Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers, featuring a demonstration by Mr. Rikou Otsuka, the Vice-Iemoto of Koryu Katabamikai. The demonstration began with an explanation of the basic forms of the traditional Koryu. The flowers are arranged based on the three lines of “Ten, Chi, Jin”, a traditional form that developed during the Edo period. In Koryu, the Tenchijin line are called “Shin, Nagashi, Uke”—and consists of five main styles.

These styles progress from the “Shin-Kei” to the “Gyo-kei” and “Sou-Kei”, with each step representing a gradual breakdown of structure. Despite this, five styles have its own distinctive beauty, and when combined in balance, they enable the creation of even larger-scaled works. He also presented a freestyle Ikebana arrangement, using seasonal spring flowers such as Keiou cherry blossoms, Boke, and Snowbell.

He skillfully created a beautiful arrangement with Nageire and Moribana. Lastly, a sheet-like red vine was transformed into a three-dimensional representation inspired by the Year of the Snake and combined with driftwood to create a Gendaika arrangement. He extended their time to create five works, leaving the audience deeply moved. He is a passionate and energetic young Ikebana artist who actively uses social media to make Ikebana more accessible to the public.

Following the demonstration, Ms. Shizuko Okubo, Ticket Director of the Finance Committee, explained about the flower exhibition ticket sales for upcoming World Convention. This announcement provided valuable insight for the participants.

The event was attended by members of Koryu Katabamikai, the wives of the U.S. Consul General, Indian Consul General, Indonesian Consul General, and staffs from the French Consulate, as well as members from other Chapters.
The meeting was a festive gathering for the New Year.