A Year of Japanese Ikebana

Hiroshi Toda is the 13th-generation head of Tanimatsuya Toda Shoten, a venerable Osaka-based tea utensil dealer with a history spanning three centuries. An expert in both classical tea ware and contemporary art, he studied in the United States and apprenticed at Tokyo’s Yayoi Gallery before joining the family business in 1976. Known for bringing a modern sensibility to the ancient art of Chado, the “Way of Tea”, he served as president of the company before passing the torch to his son, although he continues as chairman.

Atsushi Kobayashi is an ikebana master who has worked for Tanimatsuya Toda Shoten since 1998, he is known for his deeply intuitive and expressive approach to the art of floral arrangements for the tea ceremony. Drawing inspiration from traditional aesthetics, contemporary art, and the rhythms of nature, Kobayashi treats each arrangement as a singular moment of creation—improvised, imperfect and deeply felt. This book is a reflection of his belief that true artistry lies in trusting one’s instincts, embracing imperfection and finding quiet joy in the everyday act of placing flowers.