Kobe Chapter #181 Japan

11/1/2025
Demonstration
On November 1st, we held our November Meeting at Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers, welcoming Mr. Naohiro Kasuya, Iemoto of Ichiyo School of Ikebana.
He created a series of works inspired by the image of Kobe City, where “the mountains and the sea lie close together.” The theme expressed a graceful transition “from the mountains to the sea.”

The first work, featuring persimmon branches, lilies, chrysanthemums, and boke (Japanese quince), evoked the scenery of the mountains. Next, using bamboo tubes, green branches, wild rose berries, chrysanthemums, lilies, and dried pampas grass, he represented the gentle atmosphere of an autumn bamboo forest. Then, with split bamboo placed both inside and outside, a bridge leading toward the sea took form. A ship adorned with fall-colored hydrangeas seemed to float upon the sea, beautifully expressing the flow of nature. The final work was a balanced work of bamboo and red ginger flowers. As the sound of dripping water played softly in the background and the crisp crack of splitting bamboo resonated through the hall, the audience was captivated in silence. When the final work was completed, the hall was filled with resounding applause. He closed the demonstration with the inspiring words, “Through Ikebana, I wish to bring light and to build bridges that connect many places.”

The Meeting was attended by the spouse of the Consul General of Indonesia, as well as the President, First Vice President, and Corresponding Secretary from the Headquarters. Members from the Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto chapters also joined us. The President gave a greeting, and the First Vice President provided information about the New Year’s party. It was a delightful autumn afternoon shared with many guests in an atmosphere of warmth and beauty.