An Ikebana-inspired New Year ritual: Shimekazari Making
An Ikebana-inspired New Year ritual: Shimekazari Making
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What is Shimekazari?
Shimekazari is a traditional Japanese New Year decoration with roots in Shinto tradition. Made from sacred rice straw and natural materials, it is traditionally placed at the entrance of a home to mark a sacred space and welcome the New Year.
Over time, Shimekazari has become a cherished New Year custom, symbolising protection, renewal and good fortune for the year ahead.
Ikebana-Inspired Shimekazari
More than a seasonal decoration, Shimekazari marks a moment of transition, welcoming the year ahead with a sense of protection and renewal. Guided by the principles of Ikebana, create your own Shimekazari through line, form, balance and space, allowing each natural element to find its place within the whole.
A quiet Japanese New Year ritual, bringing together seasonal beauty, mindful making and the art of Ikebana.
What You’ll Experience
Join Studio Seren for a 60-minute seasonal ritual of making and reflection. Guided step by step by Serena Sensei, a Kyoto-trained First Grade Ikebana Instructor, you will create your own Shimekazari using natural materials while discovering the meaning and traditions behind this Japanese New Year practice.
You will:
- Learn about the symbolism and Japanese cultural tradition of Shimekazari
- Explore natural materials and traditional forms
- Create your own Shimekazari (approx. 16W × 27H cm) to take home
- Take a moment to reflect on the year behind and the year ahead
A thoughtful gift for a friend, someone you love, or simply for yourself. A quiet ritual to reflect on the year past, welcome the year ahead, and begin 2027 with a sense of renewal.
Refund Policy
Due to the intimate nature of our workshops and the preparation of seasonal materials, tickets are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to a friend or colleague by notifying us at least 3 days in advance.
Should the workshop need to be cancelled or rescheduled by Studio Seren, guests will be offered the option of a full refund or transfer to a future session.
Location
Café Petiole, South Wing, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA