No two flowers ever meet you the same way twice — a spirit close to ichigo ichie, "one encounter, one chance," runs through the practice of ikebana. Over 90 minutes in an old Kamakura machiya, a demonstration by Koen Yokoi, third-generation master of the Sogetsu school, gives way to one-on-one instruction as each guest completes their own arrangement. The point isn't technique so much as the time spent, quietly, with a flower.
01｜The History and the School
A machiya sitting room, an arrangement in the tokonoma alcove
The first 30 minutes trace the history of ikebana and the philosophy Yokoi carries forward as the Sogetsu school's third generation. Having presented her work on Noh stages, in film sets, and at exhibitions overseas, she speaks with a weight that goes beyond technique — and slowly, it becomes clear why arranging flowers grew into an art form in Japan in the first place.
02｜The Arrangement, By Your Own Hand
Selecting and trimming flower material
Yokoi opens the next 30 minutes with her own demonstration. Guests then choose from the prepared flower material, trimming and arranging under her direct, one-on-one guidance. No prior experience is needed — if anything, those holding scissors for the first time often find it easiest to simply focus on the flower in front of them.
03｜Tea and Conversation
Seasonal wagashi and tea, before the finished arrangement
The final 30 minutes unwind over seasonal wagashi and tea, the finished arrangement still in view. There's no set structure here — just an unhurried exchange with Yokoi and fellow guests. What guests take home isn't only the flowers, but the memory of the 90 minutes spent with them.
What the tour handles for you
Instruction, venue, flower material, and tea and sweets are all included. The experience runs for a minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 guests, and bookings should be made up to one month in advance. It can be booked on its own or combined with the Zen Journey or other cultural experiences to build a full day — please see our tours page for details and booking.