Welcome, I’m Hanako Motoya, Ikebana master and teacher. I teach Ikebana lessons in Kyoto and London.
Ikebana master and
Kyoto-based teacher
I also work with both private and commercial clients to create arrangements inspired by the beauty of nature
What is Ikebana?
You might have some images about Ikebana, one of them might be like a single flower in a small vase. It is no exaggeration to say that is the symbol of Ikebana.
Ikebana, one of the traditional arts of Japan, is over 600 years old and emerged as an independent art during the Muromachi period. The four seasons, each with its own distinctive beauty have nurtured all of Japanese culture.
Contemporary Ikebana was established in the mid-Muromachi Period (AD 1336 – 1573) by a monk of Kyoto-Rokkakudo. This is the beginning of the Ikenobo school, one of the 3 major styles, with Sogetsu and Ohara.
Nowadays, we have over 50 schools in Japan, and each one has their own philosophy and style. The most interesting and beautiful thing about Ikebana is expressing “Space”.
About me
When I started Ikebana, I was working as a florist and more interested in European flower arrangements. But eager to become an expert in my field, 30 years ago I knocked on the door of one of Japanese traditional arts.
Since then, I have been practicing and teaching Ikebana, sharing the beauty of Japanese flower arranging with people from around the world.
I still remember my trial lesson vividly. It took about 15 minutes to complete my first arrangement following my teacher’s instructions. At first, I thought it looked beautiful! However, when my teacher corrected it, something incredible happened. She gently touched each stem and moved them slightly. What I had thought was a beautiful arrangement became completely different—the result was jaw-droppingly amazing.
That feeling continues to fascinate me and inspires my teaching to this day.
My Ikebana work
Rimpa
Hanakanade
Landscape Moribana - Realistic
Morimono
Hanamai
Rimpa
Rimpa
Freestyle
Rising Form
Traditional Realistic Moribana
Rimpa
Hanakanade
Heika Slanting Style
Commissions
I create arrangements for Kyoto and London locations and events such as:
- private homes
- corporate displays and events
- corporate activities (from 10 people)
These can be one-off or commissioned on a weekly/bi-weekly basis.
How it works – it’s simple!
Have a look through my work and if there are any arrangements that you particularly love make a note of them.
Contact me
Email me using the form below.
What happens next
I communicate with you to finalise your budget, check colour palettes and arrangement style. A 50% non-refundable deposit is paid up front to secure my time. I then create the arrangements on site.
Experience
– A Moment with Flowers
A gentle Ikebana experience to reconnect with nature and your senses.
- All materials provided
- No experience needed
Mainly available in Kyoto, with occasional sessions in London. Private arrangements are welcome.
Booking & Availability
Please contact me to check availability or make a booking. When sending your inquiry, kindly include your preferred date, location, and number of participants.
Pricing & Venue
Venue: A machiya-style guesthouse or your accommodation may be arranged.
For pricing, direct bookings through this website are available at a slightly lower rate. You may also view reviews and book through my Airbnb Experience page if you prefer.
Gift & Group Options
This experience can also be arranged as:
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A birthday or special occasion gift
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A team or corporate wellbeing activity
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A creative session for retreats or gatherings
Venue, schedule and pricing are negotiable based on your needs.