Japanese New Year Wreath @1 Hotel Mayfair

What is Shimekazari?

Shimekazari is a traditional Japanese New Year decoration rooted in Shinto tradition. Made from sacred rice straw and natural materials, it hangs at the entrance of a home to mark a sacred threshold and welcome the year ahead.

For centuries it has been a cherished New Year custom, a symbol of protection, renewal and good fortune.

From Kyoto to London

More than a seasonal decoration, Shimekazari marks a moment of transition. Guided by the principles of Ikebana (line, form, balance and space), you’ll create your own piece and let each natural element find its place within the whole.

From the sacred rice straw and cords to the finishing ornaments, each element comes from Kyoto, Japan’s centre of traditional craft for over a thousand years. The piece you take home is as authentic as the ritual behind it.

Every material and ornament, premium and Kyoto-made.

What You’ll Experience

Join Studio Seren for a 90-minute guided experience in the art of Shimekazari. Guided by Serena Sensei, a Kyoto-trained First Grade Ikebana Instructor, this intimate workshop invites you to discover the meaning behind the tradition while creating your own decoration for the New Year.

Set in the Nightingale Room at 1 Hotel Mayfair, surrounded by a considered, nature-led setting, take a pause from the festive rush to enjoy a moment of creativity, reflection and connection. Seasonal snacks and complimentary refreshments will be served throughout.

You will:

• Create your own Shimekazari (approx. 16W × 27H cm) to take home
• Work with premium Kyoto-made materials
• Explore natural materials and traditional forms through the art of Ikebana
• Learn about the symbolism and Japanese cultural tradition of Shimekazari
• Take a moment to reflect on the year behind and the year ahead
• Beginner friendly. No experience needed.

A Japanese ritual for a new beginning. Create something meaningful to display in your home, give to someone special, or keep as a reminder to welcome the year ahead with intention.

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.