The founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kobo Daishi, Kukai (774-835) dedicated a ceremony called "Mando Mange E" in 832 A.D. at Mt. Koya, Wakayama, Japan. The art of flower arrangement style along with the Koyasan Shingon rituals have been refined over 1,200 years. This style of flower arrangement is called the "Kado Koyasan".
Kobo-Daishi, the great master of Shingon Buddhism, said, "We are just one part of the universe, and all of us, even plants and animals, have equal life. It is important to respect each other's lives and make the most of it." The essence of Koyasan flower arrangement is to make the best use of the short life of flowers.
Why not take a moment to enrich your heart in the midst of your hectic daily life? When we touch the flowers, feel their life, and make use of their life, all of our senses will be healed and we will be in a state of tranquility.
“Ikase Inochi”, “Let's make use of all life”, is the heart of Kado Koyasan.
Funded in part by the generosity of the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), City of Los Angeles.