Iemoto's Log Vol.28 In the Rhythm of Autumn, Into New Beginnings

I often wondered when autumn would finally arrive, but as always, the seasons come around in their own time. While the sunlight can still be strong during the day, I can feel the crisp touch of autumn now.

I hope everyone is staying well and not feeling the fatigue of the summer.

While I would like to take a moment to rest and recover, October is the busiest month of the year for me, with one event following another.

Many of these are new experiences for me, and although I feel a bit more nervous than usual, I want each task to be something I can look back on and think, “Ah, that was truly enjoyable!” I will be sharing some of these experiences in future entries of this series.

Since the end of September, I have been in Kyoto, spending my days going to Sanzen-in Temple. The temple is bustling with visitors every day, including many from overseas.

While the temple is crowded during the daytime, I arrive before the gates open, first offering my respects to the Buddha, gazing at the serene garden, and calming my mind. Then, I take on the day’s work, preparing my arrangements with determination.

After several days of this routine, today marks the start of the 13th Kajiinomiya Goryu Autumn Ikebana Exhibition. Representatives from each branch have gathered, and together, we have arranged our flowers with care and heart.

Although the autumn leaves have not yet fully turned in Ohara, I hope visitors can enjoy the refreshing breeze as they come to see the exhibition at Sanzen-in.

We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

I also have another announcement. Starting this Sunday 5th of October, the studio arrangements I created will be featured on NHK Tanka and Haiku programs. The first two weeks will focus on Tanka. I will be contributing randomly over the next six months, and I warmly invite you to watch.

This month’s entry has turned into quite a promotional note, but I hope you enjoy it.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

梶井宮御流　Kajiinomiya Goryu

第二十一世家元　21st Headmaster

一松斎 藤原素朝　Fujiwara Socho