Princess Hisako and Princess Akiko Attend Opening of the 13th Ikebana Convention

Japan's Princess Hisako (Takamado) and Princess Akiko (Mikasa) attended the Ikebana International 13th World Convention at the Kyoto International Conference Center in Kyoto City. Approximately 1,000 participants from about 40 countries and regions attended the event, which was held under the theme "Connecting and Continuing." The event also featured an ikebana exhibition showcasing around 300 works.

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, also known as kadō ("the way of flowers"). The origin of ikebana can be traced back to the ancient Japanese custom of erecting evergreen trees and decorating them with flowers as yorishiro to invite the gods.

Ikebana is considered one of the three classical Japanese arts of refinement, along with kōdō (the art of incense appreciation) and chadō (the art of tea and the tea ceremony). Princess Hisako serves as the Honorary President of Ikebana International.