Ikebana Workshops & Courses
Immerse yourself in the refined and contemplative world of Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging.
Our workshops offer a unique opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore the harmony between form, space, and silence.
Led by a passionate practitioner, each session blends hands-on practice with insights into the philosophy, history, and cultural roots of Ikebana. You will learn to create meaningful arrangements using seasonal materials, natural elements, and mindful technique.
We offer small group sessions – Intimate, focused learning environments or private bookings – Tailored experiences for individuals, friends, or corporate groups. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
Rooted in respect and creativity, we are proudly LGBTQIA+ inclusive and warmly welcome people of all identities.
We currently offer two Discover the Art of Japanese Ikebana Workshops and one Ikenobo Ikebana Class.
We also offer tailored private Workshops either at Bella Formosa Garten or at your home.
The private workshop offers a personalised introduction to the refined art of Japanese Ikebana, designed for small groups celebrating a special occasion — whether a hens gathering, birthday, corporate experience, or an intimate event with friends.
Hosted exclusively for your group at a time and date of your choosing, the experience combines cultural depth with a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Location:
Carnegie, Victoria. Full address provided upon booking confirmation.
5 minutes from Carnegie or Murrumbeena Station
Only 20 minutes from Town Hall / Flinders Street Station (Cranbourne or Pakenham line – through the new Metro Tunnel)
Free off-street parking is available.

Ikebana Workshops & Courses
Discover the Art of Japanese Ikebana – Beginners Workshop
A 1-day (2.5 hours) workshop
No experience needed.
This 2.5-hour workshop introduces the philosophy and style of the Ikenobo school — the oldest and most respected Ikebana school in Japan, with more than 550 years of history.
Philosophy about Ikenobō is not just decoration — it’s about:
• Harmony between nature and humanity
• Respect for seasonality
• Bringing life to flowers (“giving life” rather than arranging)
Ikenobo represents the spirit of Japanese aesthetics. Its influence extends beyond flowers — informing the setting of tea ceremonies and inspiring sushi and sashimi masters, who apply the same principles of balance, restraint, and thoughtful presentation to their craft.
Yet this workshop is not intimidating or overly serious.
It is relaxed, enjoyable, accessible, and designed for everyone.
What You Will Experience
A Short Introduction to Ikebana & Ikenobo
We begin with an introduction to the history and philosophy of Ikenobo Ikebana.
You will discover:
• How Ikebana began in Buddhist temples
• Why “less is more” is central to Japanese beauty
• The meaning behind Shin, Soe, and Tai
• How space (ma) gives life to an arrangement
It is cultural insight made simple and enjoyable.
During the workshop, you will:
• Learn a 550-year-old Japanese tradition
• Create two structured arrangements
• Use authentic tools and materials
• Take home your floral creations
• Gain skills you can continue to develop
You will leave with both experience and something tangible.
We focus on:
• Line and movement
• Balance and proportion
• Working with natural growth patterns
• Appreciating simplicity rather than excess
Workshop Details
You will create two classical Ikenobo arrangements with step-by-step guidance.
This is hands-on, practical, and creative.
Simply learning by doing.
You will leave with new skills, fresh perspectives, and your own floral creations.
Everything is provided, and you do not need to bring anything.
A range of fresh seasonal flowers and branches is included, and your floral materials are yours to take home.
We will provide the equipment, such as Japanese hasami scissors, eco-friendly floral foam, kenzan, wires, and Ikebana vessels or vases.
All Ikebana tools and containers remain at the studio and are returned at the end of the class.
The workshop includes a simple vessel for you to take home after the session.
During the workshop, you will practise using either eco-friendly floral foam or a kenzan.
The eco-friendly floral foam is included.
Should you wish to continue your practice at home, a traditional metal kenzan, Ikebana equipment and tools are available for purchase.
Workshop participants receive a 10% discount on all equipment.
Duration:
2.5 hours
Cost:
$175 AUD
Class Size:
2 (minimum) to 8 (maximum) participants
To maintain a relaxed and focused environment with personal guidance and a calm atmosphere.
Ready to Experience Ikebana?
Japanese Ikebana for Men – Beginners Workshop
A 1-day (2.5 hours) workshop for men only
This 2.5-hour workshop follows the same structure and curriculum as our Discover the Art of Japanese Ikebana – Beginners Workshop.
This session is offered as a men-only workshop, open to all men, providing a relaxed and comfortable environment in which to explore Ikebana.
Why we offer this workshop?
In addition to our all-gender sessions, we offer a men’s workshop in response to participant interest in a more tailored group setting.
By providing both formats, we seek to create considered and welcoming experiences that accommodate different preferences while remaining inclusive to all.
Duration:
2.5 hours
Cost:
$175 AUD
Class Size:
2 (minimum) to 8 (maximum) participants
To maintain a relaxed and focused environment with personal guidance and a calm atmosphere.
Ready to Experience Ikebana?
Ikenobo Ikebana Course – Foundations of Japanese Flower Arranging
a 4-day (2.5 hours x 4 days = 10 hours) course - (Sundays)
Course Details
This course offers a deeper exploration of Ikebana and the principles behind the Ikenobo tradition.
You will gain a broader understanding of the techniques and philosophy that guide each arrangement, helping you develop confidence and sensitivity when working with natural materials.
Over the four sessions, you will gradually develop your observation, sensitivity to line and space, and confidence in creating balanced arrangements. The four-week format allows you to practise regularly, reflect on your work, and refine your understanding of Ikebana in a calm and supportive learning environment.
Each week introduces a different style, including Free Style (Moribana), Nageire, Shoka I, and Shoka II.
Through guided practice, you will learn how structure, line, balance, and space work together to create harmony within an arrangement.
The course is suitable for beginners as well as those who would like to deepen their understanding of Ikebana in a more structured learning environment. It is ideal for those who wish to move beyond a single workshop and experience a more meaningful and continuous learning journey in Ikebana.
Everything is provided, and you do not need to bring anything.
A range of fresh seasonal flowers and branches is included, and your floral materials are yours to take home.
We will provide the equipment, such as Japanese hasami scissors, eco-friendly floral foam, kenzan, wires, and Ikebana vessels or vases.
The course includes a vessel and a Japanese-made kenzan (Premium Japanese Kenzan #8 号 万能丸) valued $ 84.99 and a flower scissor (Hanaha no Hasami 花葉の鋏 はさみ ) valued $34.99 both of which you may take home after the course for continued practice.
All other Ikebana tools and containers remain at the studio and are returned at the end of the class.
Should you wish to continue your practice at home, Ikebana equipment, a variety of traditional metal kenzans and other ikebana tools are available for purchase.
Course participants receive a 10% discount on all equipment.
Duration:
2.5 hours
(4 sessions in total)
Cost:
$650 AUD for the full course
Class Size:
2 (minimum) to 8 (maximum) participants
to maintain a relaxed and focused learning environment with plenty of personal guidance.
Ready to Experience Ikebana?
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Foundations of Japanese Flower Arranging 4 Sundays, each class 2.5 hours - 2 weekly interval
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