Kōdō-ryu
The Art of Flowers with Samurai Spirit
What is Kado (The Way of Flowers)
In Japan, Kado (華道), also known as Ikebana, is the traditional art of flower arrangement that has been practiced for over 600 years. Originating from offerings of flowers at temples, it evolved into a refined art form that expresses the harmony between humans and nature.
Unlike Western floral decoration, Kado is not about abundance or symmetry — it is about balance, space, and simplicity. Today, it is practiced across Japan and around the world as a form of mindfulness and spiritual expression, cherished for its quiet elegance and meditative beauty.
About Kōdō-ryu
Founded in the mid-Edo period by Mochizuki Gisō (1722–1804), Kōdō-ryū traces its philosophy to the Ming-dynasty scholar Yuan Zhonglang (Yuan Hongdao) and his classic work “Heishi” (The Art of Flower Vases). Deeply inspired by its idea of finding purity through simplicity, Mochizuki transformed court-style flower arrangement into a practice that reflects the disciplined heart of the samurai.
Rather than decorating with flowers, Kōdō-ryu teaches how to express the invisible balance of life — the harmony of heaven, earth, and human.
During the Edo period, it was beloved by poets and samurai who valued both aesthetic refinement and spiritual composure. Today, Kōdō-ryū continues to share this timeless way of seeing beauty not as display, but as a dialogue between nature and the human heart.
What You Will Experience
Guided by a master of Kōdō-ryu, you will learn the basic principles of Japanese flower arrangement and create your own elegant composition.
Through simple yet meaningful movements, you’ll experience how flowers can express mindfulness, harmony, and presence — the same qualities once cultivated by samurai as part of their daily discipline.
Key Points
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Private or small-group instruction
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English interpretation available
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No prior experience required
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All materials provided
Practical information
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Duration approx. 2 hours
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No special clothing required
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Advance booking required
Meet the instructor
Gizen Mochizuki, 8th Iemoto of Kodo-ryu
Born in Tokyo in 1978 as the eldest son of the Seventh Head, Yoshitaka Mochizuki began studying ikebana at the age of six under his father’s guidance. He succeeded to the name Niun-sai in 2006 and became the Eighth Head of Kōdō-ryū in 2016.
Rooted in classical ikebana while embracing modern sensibilities, his work embodies refinement and purity. He actively collaborates with artists across disciplines and participates in cultural and community projects, including Ikebana for Tohoku Reconstruction.
He currently serves as Director of the Japan Ikebana Art Association and Director of the Ikebana Association of Japan.
