Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, is all about simplicity, balance, and harmony with nature. But it’s so much more than just arranging flowers. It’s a meaningful encounter with the fleeting beauty of nature and a conversation with the materials in their unique, present form. This art invites us to deeply observe—a branch’s elegant curve, a leaf’s delicate direction, or the subtle play of colors. The process itself is a journey of discovery, reflecting the rhythm of life as you cut, trim, and thoughtfully shape your arrangement.
Practicing Ikebana with genuine intent becomes a form of self-reflection. It helps us connect with our inner selves, appreciate imperfection, and embrace life’s transient moments. Exploring Ikebana can spark creativity, nurture mindfulness, and bring more depth and fulfillment to our lives. I’m passionate about contributing to this art form and sharing its transformative beauty with others.
Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, is a meditative practice that encourages deep observation and a profound connection with nature. Each arrangement is a unique expression, born from a careful dialogue with the materials at hand. The process of selecting, cutting, and placing each element demands mindfulness and a quiet appreciation for the ephemeral beauty of life. Through this practice, we learn to find beauty in imperfection, embrace the present moment, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
Join us and let your creativity flourish while embracing the meditative joy of this timeless art form.
Nakaba Emtesali is a Certified 2nd Associate Master of the Ohara School of Ikebana with a lifelong passion for Japanese floral design. She began practicing Ikebana in middle school in Kobe, Japan, the heartland of the Ohara School of Ikebana. After moving to the U.S., her passion led her to pursue extensive education to deepen her understanding of this art form. She has since shared the beauty and artistry of Japanese flower arranging through numerous demonstrations and workshops across San Diego, inspiring creativity, mindfulness, and cultural appreciation in diverse audiences.
Discover the timeless art of Ikebana, traditional Japanese flower arranging, in this hands-on class. Guided by a Certified Master of the Ohara School of Ikebana, you will learn the fundamental techniques and principles of this elegant art form. Explore how to create harmonious arrangements that blend natural beauty with artistic expression, emphasizing balance, simplicity, and mindfulness. This class is perfect for beginners and experienced floral enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to develop a new skill or deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture, this course provides a creative and meditative experience that will transform the way you see flowers. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
UCSD Craft Center
9605 Scholars Dr. North, La Jolla, CA 92093 map
Winter Quarter 2026
🌹 Date: January 21 (Wednesday)| 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
🌻 Date: February 25 (Wednesday)| 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Location: UC San Diego Craft Center
🔗 Register here
Fall Quarter 2025
🌸 Date: October 15 (Wednesday)| 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
🌼 Date: November 12 (Wednesday)| 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Spring Quarter 2025
🌺 Date: April 23 (Wednesday) | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
🌷 Date: June 4 (Wednesday)| 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
No experience needed—Please bring your garden scissors! All other materials and supplies are provided! Just bring your creativity, and leave with a beautiful floral arrangement to take home.
Poway Adult School
13626 Twin Peaks Rd, Poway, CA 92064 map
Winter Term 2026 - Registration Now Open
🌺 January 14 (Wednesday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15350
🌷January 14 (Wednesday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15351
🌸 January 15 (Thursday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Beyond Beginning | Pre-Requisite: Introductory Ikebana)
🔗 Class ID : 15356
🌺 February 4 (Wednesday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15352
🌷February 4 (Wednesday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15353
🌸 February 5 (Thursday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Beyond Beginning | Pre-Requisite: Introductory Ikebana)
🔗 Class ID : 15357
🌺 February 11 (Wednesday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Valentine's Day Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 15359
🌷 February 11 (Wednesday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Valentine's Day Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 15360
🌺 March 11 (Wednesday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15354
🌷March 11 (Wednesday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 15355
🌸 March 12 (Thursday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Beyond Beginning | Pre-Requisite: Introductory Ikebana)
🔗 Class ID : 15358
🌺 March 25 (Wednesday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Spring Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 15361
🌷 March 25 (Wednesday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Spring Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 15362
No experience needed—all materials and supplies are provided! Just bring your creativity and leave with a beautiful floral arrangement to take home.
Private classes / Online classes available — inquire for details!
San Diego Oasis (Rancho Bernardo)
Rancho Bernardo Lifelong Learning Center
17170 Bernardo Center Dr. San Diego, CA 92128 map
🌻 January 16, 2026 (Friday) | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2299 Register here
🌹 February 23, 2026 (Monday) | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2300 Register here
🌼 December 12, 2025 (Friday) | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2160
🌸 November 14, 2025 (Friday) | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2159
🌷October 27, 2025 (Monday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2158
🌺 September 26, 2025 (Friday) | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔗 Class ID : 2157
San Diego Oasis (La Mesa)
5500 Grossmont Center Drive, Ste. 269
La Mesa, CA 91942 map
🌻 January 23, 2026 (Friday) | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 1468 Register here
🌹 March 13, 2026 (Friday) | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🌼 April 27 (Monday) | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
No experience needed—Please bring your garden scissors! All other materials and supplies are provided! Just bring your creativity and leave with a beautiful floral arrangement to take home.
Poway Adult School
13626 Twin Peaks Rd, Poway, CA 92064 map
Fall Term 2025 - Registration
🌺 Wednesday, September 10 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14835
🌷 Wednesday, September 10 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14836
🌸 Thursday, September 11 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Beyond Beginning | Pre-Requisite: Introductory Ikebana)
🔗 Class ID : 14845
🌺 Wednesday, October 8 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14837
🌷 Wednesday, October 8 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14838
🌸 Thursday, October 9 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Beyond Beginning | Pre-Requisite: Introductory Ikebana)
🔗 Class ID : 14846
🌺 Wednesday, November 19 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Thanksgiving Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14839
🌷 Wednesday, November 19 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Thanksgiving Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14840
🌸 Thursday, November 20 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Thanksgiving Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14841
🌺 Wednesday, December 10 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Holiday Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14842
🌷 Wednesday, December 10 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Holiday Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14843
🌸 Thursday, December 11 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Holiday Centerpiece)
🔗 Class ID : 14844
Spring Term 2025
🌺 Wednesday, May 7 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14437
🌷 Wednesday, May 14 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14495
🌸 Wednesday, May 21 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Class ID : 14480
Poway Library
13137 Poway Rd, Poway, CA 92064 map
🌸 May 9, 2026 (Saturday) | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
(Sign-up required.)
🌺 August 27, 2025 (Wednesday) | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
(Adult Summer Reading Program - Sign-up required.)
No experience needed—all materials and supplies are provided! Just bring your creativity and leave with a beautiful floral arrangement to take home.
Encinitas Library
540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024 map
🌸 February 24, 2026 (Tuesday) | 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
(Sign-up required.)
Private classes / Online classes available — inquire for details!
I loved this class. I learned a new way of arranging flowers. The instructor was wonderful explaining how it's done. I look forward to another class of this.
The class was excellent. Our teacher was confident and kind as she instructed us. We also came home with our flower arrangements which are still pretty.
Nakaba is very welcoming. Her personal story, passion for teaching as well as inspiration has left me wanting to learn more about the art & beauty of Ikebana floral design. I look forward to attending more classes with her.
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