The Japanese art of flower arrangement is known as Ikebana. Derived from the Japanese Ikeru (“keep alive, arrange living”) and hana (“flower”), Ikebana is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together. Ikebana often emphasizes the stems and leaves and draws emphasis toward shape, line, form. The artists intention behind each arrangement is shown through a piece’s color combinations. Ikebana is thought to have arrived in Japan with the migration of Buddhism in the 6th century. The offering of flowers on the altar in honor of Buddha was part of worship from which Ikebana evolved and transformed into offerings to the spirits of the dead. The first Ikebana students and teachers appeared in the middle of the fifteenth century, and they were Buddhist priests and members. 

Over time, Ikebana schools were created and styles were changed. By the late fifteenth century, styles evolved and popularity grew so much, that these flower arrangements were being appreciated by ordinary people. Between 1443 and 1536 Ikebana became a staple of traditional festivals and exhibitions. There are various styles of ikebana. Some are eccentric and created for imperials, others are specific to tea ceremonies and are simple, and focus on rustic beauty. There are free creative styles where an artist can use more than just flowers and plants but can incorporate whatever they see fit.