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Botanical Exhibitions

Ikebana Display Presented by Saga Goryu School North American Chapter

A previous installation.

Shakamuni Buddha’s birthday is commemorated on the 8th day of the 4th month. In Japan, this celebration is called “Hana Matsuri.” Saga Goryu North America Chapter offers an ikebana installation for Hana Matsuri at the Portland Japanese Garden from April 9th through 12th, 2025. Members and guests who pay admission can enjoy this special display in the Tateuchi Courtyard.

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, has been translated as “living flowers” or “giving life to flowers.” It dates to the sixth century when China and Korea introduced Buddhism to Japan. Floral offerings, known as kuge, were placed on the altar of temples.

The Saga Goryu School, started by Emperor Saga, founder of Daikakuji Temple in Kyoto, aims to introduce visual and spiritual pleasure into daily life. They teach floral decoration, and the skills to recognize the delicate beauty of flowers and their artistic value. According to Saga Goryu, ikebana is more than a classical art of ancient origin. It is an art form still relevant today.