Abracadabra Tours
This workshop offers the chance to create your very own SOKO-BACHI (dried flower planter) by adorning driftwood with dried flowers. In collaboration with OUKA FLOWER, a Japanese dried flower brand dedicated to uncovering the hidden beauty in all plants and reimagining their value, this workshop introduces a new kind of flower experience that is different from traditional ikebana or bonsai art.
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SOKO-BACHI Dried Flower Planter Workshop
The Highlight
- Design your own SOKO-BACHI planter using eco-friendly materials like discarded flower stems. Decorate driftwood with dried flowers to create a vibrant, one-of-a-kind piece.
- All materials are dried, so no watering or upkeep is required. These planters stay beautiful for years and brighten even low-light indoor spaces.
- Experience a new kind of flower workshop that combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with dried flower art, offering a unique alternative to ikebana and bonsai. *Family or friend groups can book private workshops for an additional fee. Can’t make the scheduled dates? Contact us to arrange an alternative.
The Experience
・About SOKO-BACHI The term “soko (蒼枯)” conveys: “A weathered charm with a rustic beauty.” “Deep elegance within antiquity.”
OUKA FLOWER interprets “soko” as the essence of dried flowers and pairs it with “hachi (鉢)”, which refers to a container for plants. They paired the two to develop the concept of SOKO-BACHI, a planter crafted from dried flowers.
For this workshop, you will use STEMN, an eco-friendly product made from pulped mold and discarded flower stems, which decomposes naturally over time, as the base for your unique creation.
・About OUKA FLOWER OUKA FLOWER is a Japanese dried flower brand that blends traditional craftsmanship with innovation. They specialize in creating products, installations, and workshops that bring the beauty and potential of Japanese dried flowers to life. Collaborating with OUKA FLOWER makes this workshop a unique alternative to traditional ikebana or bonsai experiences.
Learn more https://ouka-flower.com/ (international website) https://ouka-soan.com/ (Japanese website)
・Create one-of-a-kind dried flower art Decorate driftwood with dried flowers to craft a truly unique piece of art. This workshop uses flower materials that would otherwise be discarded, giving them new value and purpose. Featuring native Japanese plants, this experience transforms these materials into stunning works of art, offering a tranquil and creative atmosphere to help you relax.
・A lasting memory of Japan Take home your handcrafted SOKO-BACHI as a unique souvenir from Japan. Unlike fresh flowers, dried flowers never wilt and will maintain their beauty for years, serving as a lasting reminder of your time in Japan. Note: To ensure safe transport, all components are provided in a disassembled state, preventing damage during transit. *An English instruction guide is included, making it easy to reassemble your creation at home.
Gen Akita / Chief Creator of OUKA Fascinated by the unique beauty of withered wild plants, Gen Akita mastered dried flower arrangement techniques through self-study. With a passion for maximizing the natural charm of plants and sharing their value, he specializes in designing and producing dried flower products as well as creating captivating displays for stores and offices. Through this workshop, he aims to convey the joy of craftsmanship and working with plants while also helping participants feel a closer connection to Japan and dried flowers.
*An additional fee is required for private parties. Additionally, we may be able to accommodate dates not listed on our website. Please contact us for more details.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- Japanese
- English
Language in Printed Materials (Booklet)
- English
Itinerary
- Join us at Sanagi Shinjuku, located just steps from Shinjuku Station’s Southeast Exit. This café and creative space brings together events, food, and culture. *On-site workshops are also available. Please contact us for more details.
- The workshop will take place in Sanagi Shinjuku’s beautifully designed lounge. *Depending on the group size or other circumstances, we may use another room.
- Everything you need is provided, so feel free to come empty-handed! This experience is beginner-friendly, so special skills or prior experience are not required.
- During the workshop, you’ll work with STEMN, an eco-friendly product made from recycled paper pulp and upcycled flower stems that would otherwise go to waste. This ethical planter is not only creative but also kind to the planet.
- Our instructor will introduce you to a selection of flowers, including iconic Japanese varieties like pine needles and chrysanthemums. *Flowers availability may vary by season.
- Use a pair of clippers to trim your flowers and arrange them into a sponge base.
- The process includes some intricate steps, but don’t worry!
- The instructor will be there to guide you and help with any tricky parts.
- Let your creativity shine as you balance colors and composition to craft your one-of-a-kind planter!
- Once your flowers are arranged, you’ll add white sand to the base.
- Top it off with dried moss to give your piece a uniquely Japanese flair!
- Your finished planter will make a beautiful keepsake of your time in Japan that you can enjoy for years to come!
- At the end of the workshop, we’ll pack your creation in separate pieces to make it easy to take home safely. You’ll also receive an English instruction sheet so you can easily reassemble it at home.
- Relax and enjoy complimentary soft drinks during the workshop!
- After the workshop, you’re welcome to dine at Sanagi Shokudo (meal cost not included). The "Asian & Japanese Street Food"-themed menu offers a variety of dishes like katsudon, sushi, and oden.
Price Details
How to Use
- Please provide your order number on-site.
Purchase Notice
- Our guides can assist you in both English and Japanese. ◆Bringing dried flowers outside of Japan The dried flowers used in the workshop are pre-checked using the Biosecurity Import Conditions Database (BICON) to confirm they can be brought into your country. A list with the English or scientific names of the flowers will also be provided for customs purposes if needed. To confirm the plants can be imported, please provide your country of residence accurately when making your reservation. ◆Displaying and caring for dried flowers ・Keep dried flowers away from direct sunlight, high humidity, air conditioning vents, sealed spaces, or water sources. Place them in a bright, well-ventilated, shaded area. ・If dust or dirt accumulates, gently wipe the flowers with a dry, soft cloth. ◆Lifespan of dried flowers ・The longevity and aging of dried flowers depend on the type and the environment where they are displayed. ・Over time, typically after about three months, the flowers may start to fade to a sepia tone and become brittle or shed petals.
Important Booking Information
・Our guides can assist you in both English and Japanese. ・Failure to arrive at the meeting point on time will be considered a no-show, and you may be charged a cancellation fee. ・Due to the nature of the program, unscheduled participation is not allowed. ・We are not liable for any accidents or injuries that occur during the program, though compensation may be provided within the limits of the participation fee if the company is found at fault. We recommend that you consider purchasing insurance if you are concerned about possible accidents or injuries. ・If you are not feeling well on the day of the program, please refrain from participating. We may also ask you not to participate if your health condition could be a concern.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 3 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel on 2 day(s) before departure, will charge 40%
- Cancel on 1 day(s) before departure, will charge 60%
- Cancel on activities date, Non-refundable (0% refund)