Kobe Chapter #181 JAPAN
3/14/2025
Demonstration
On March 14, 2025, the Kobe Chapter’s March meeting was held at Nippondaira Hotel in Shizuoka, offering a breathtaking view of the World Heritage Site of Mt. Fuji, Miho no Matsubara, and Suruga Bay.
We had the honor of inviting Mr. Fumihiko Muramatsu, Interflora World Cup Champion and Flower Artist, to present a demonstration.
The demonstration began with a passionate red welcome bouquet, beautifully crafted using the spiral technique with black roses. Then, a white bouquet was created using the parallel technique, featuring Kobe Lily “Princess O-go,” which is grown in Kobe. Following that, an arrangement using yellow flowers,
evoking the essence of spring, was presented. The addition of yellow baby’s breath at the end made it even more gorgeous. Another arrangement showcased the beauty of Japanese quince in a crossed design. The final work was an arrangement incorporating driftwood from the 3.11 earthquake disaster.
Mr. Muramatsu expressed that “even without words, flowers create connections between people,” leaving a deep impression on the audience.
After the demonstration, we enjoyed a delightful lunch while deepening our connections in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The meeting was honored by the presence of the wife of the Indonesian Consul General, the wife of the President of Nippondaira Hotel, members from the headquarters and other
chapters, as well as guests from Shizuoka and other prefectures.
The event became a memorable occasion where Kobe and other regions strengthened their bonds through flowers. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to share such a heartwarming moment, surrounded by the beautiful scenery and flowers.
5 / 9/ 2025
Demonstration Chapter Meeting
On May 9, with fresh greenery all around, the Kobe Chapter held its final Meeting of the term at the Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers.
The event began with the Annual General Meeting, where reports on this term’s activities and finances were shared. Then, the new directors for the upcoming term were elected, and the baton was passed on to them.
A bouquet of flowers was presented to Chapter President Ms. Matsuoka in appreciation of her leadership over the past two years.
Following the AGM, we welcomed Ms. Satoko Fuji, Vice-Iemoto of Kasei-ryu, who presented a demonstration. The venue was adorned with a refreshing piece featuring the lush green leaves of the wax tree, creating a serene atmosphere. The demonstration was themed “Makuranosoushi, Ikebana, and Me”, with the subtitle “From Imagination to Creation.” It beautifully blended literature and Ikebana. The presentation included the works inspired by three passages from Makuranosoushi, and interactive arrangements in which guests participated—representing scenes from Cinderella—the ball and the moment the magic fades. The audience was drawn into this imaginative and creative world. Ms. Fuji encouraged everyone to “enjoy the experience of touching flowers while exploring their imagination.”
We were honored to welcome guests from the Consulates of Panama and France, as well as members from Kyoto and Osaka Chapters.
Inspired by Makuranosoushi by Sei Shonagon, we imagined the elegant lifestyle of aristocrats in the Heian period. It was a memorable afternoon filled with imagination and creativity.
