Flower Frog - Michikusa Kenzan

Kenzan, literally translating as ‘sword mountain’, is a stand used for creating flower arrangements by fixing the flower stems on spikes. The modern design of this transparent glass kenzan allows the flowers to take centre stage, rather than the stand. It was born from the idea of picking tiny wild flowers growing on the side of the road that could be taken home and used for ikebana-style flower arrangements, bringing life and colour to the room. Its name michikusa also relates to this idea with ‘michi‘ meaning road or path and ‘kusa‘ translating as grass.

Tōhoku

Tōhoku consists of six prefectures located in the north-east of Honshu island. This region is known for its hot spring (onsen) resorts, colourful festivals, remote sacred mountains and harsh winters. In 2011, the devastating earthquake and tsunami hit the region hard; however, the massive efforts in reconstruction are proof of the people’s resilience. Urushi (lacquer) ware, ironware and the crafting of kokeshi dolls make up but a few of the local industries in this lesser-visited region of Japan.