Akari, Ikebana Display Presented by Saga Goryu School – North American Chapter

Shakamuni Buddha’s birthday is commemorated on the eighth day of the fourth month. In Japan, this celebration is called Hana Matsuri. Saga Goryu North America Chapter will offer an ikebana installation for Hana Matsuri at Portland Japanese Garden from April 8 through 11. Members and guests who pay admission can enjoy this special display in the Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation Courtyard. The theme of this year’s ikebana installation is akari, or “bright,” which was inspired by the Imperial New Year’s Poetry Reading. 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. Viewing this display is included with garden admission.