Miss International 2018 contestants learn ikebana

Ikebana, literally “living flowers”, is a Japanese tradition of arranging flowers. The art dates back to 7th century and today, many ikebana enthusiasts continue to hone their skills not only within Japan but across the world as well.

The Miss International 2019 delegates got a chance to develop their skills in arranging flowers and learn more about ikebana‘s history. Under the guidance of an iemoto (head teacher) the contestants got to experience first hand a Japanese cultural heritage in Ikenobo, the oldest ikebana school in Japan.

Check out some of the photos taken by Kenji Yutani/Missosology-Japan.