Hana wo rō sureba kaori koromo ni mitsu “Playing with Flowers, the Fragrance Permeates our Robes”

Chabana, the artful expression of bringing nature into the tearoom by way of flowers, encapsulates the essence of subdued and quiet taste, synonymous with the Tea Ceremony. These arrangements showcase a minimal selection of perennial flowers and grasses, thoughtfully arranged in a vase and displayed in the tearoom alcove. Through the understated presentation of flowers, the ephemeral beauty of nature and the poignant cycle of seasonal change are unveiled.

By cultivating Chabana plants in our gardens and exploring our neighborhoods for Chabana materials, we become attuned to the subtle shifts in the natural world around us. This practice invites us to appreciate the fleeting moments and delicate nuances of the ever-changing seasons.

On Sunday, September 22, we were honored to welcome Chabana master Ms. Kimiyo Kawasaki from Sasebo, Japan. For the third consecutive year, Kimiyo-sensei, with her assistants, led workshops for East-West Chanoyu Center members and the broader Tea community.

Participants brought vases, and flowers from their gardens that were complemented by additional plant material provided by Kimiyo-sensei. Each participant carefully selected and arranged flowers, receiving insightful critique and guidance from sensei.

Kimiyo-sensei masterfully trimmed each arrangement, revealing the unique beauty and essence of each bloom and branch in perfect harmony with the vase. Her serene and skilled approach transformed every arrangement into a living work of art.

Participants also visited the Zuishin’an tearooms to enjoy a bowl of matcha and traditional sweets, deepening the cultural experience. We hope you will join us for another enriching workshop when she returns in the fall of 2025.

PowerPoint Slides courtesy of Maiko Behr sensei of sabiteaarts.com, Vancouver, B.C. Images of the progress of our Chabana Garden courtesy of EWCC member Karen Fujita. Funding for the Chabana Garden was provided by the generous support of Peggy and Steve Garber of Seattle.