About “Shitsurai” – The Art of Seasonal Arrangement

Shitsurai – The Art of Seasonal Arrangement

Omnicent operates an artist residency in a renovated traditional Japanese house in Ukiha. This house originally belonged to a tea master who served as the Kyushu branch head of the Omotesenke school of tea. As a result, the property includes a tea room and a tea garden, along with a collection of traditional tea utensils.

When we first began welcoming international artists to this space, Omnicent’s directors, Noritaka Tanaka and Ryoko Baba, had the opportunity to receive monthly lessons of Shitsurai, the refined imperial court culture of seasonal arrangements, under a teacher well-versed in the traditions of the Japanese court. This practice is deeply rooted in the rhythms of nature and the lunar calendar, adjusting overall elements of everyday life from living spaces to personal well-being to the subtle transitions of the seasons.

The monthly Shitsurai lessons at Omnicent occasionally allow visiting artists the rare opportunity to observe and participate, offering them a glimpse into the profound aesthetics and philosophy that underpin Japanese traditional arts.

Ukiha is a land rich in history, with traces of Jomon-era ruins and Kofun-period heritage still visible today. In recent years, a diverse mix of newcomers and long-time residents have embraced a lifestyle that blends modern work styles with traditional ways of living, staying closely connected to the earth and water. Within this environment, practicing Shitsurai as a seasonal guide feels like a natural extension of daily life.

Shitsurai serves as the foundation for many of Japan’s beautiful cultural traditions, including tea ceremony, ikebana, garden design, and traditional architecture. For many international visitors who come to Ukiha in search of an authentic and deep connection to Japan, learning about Shitsurai offers an enlightening and almost mystical experience, unlocking many of the cultural mysteries they seek to understand.

Through this column, we will continue to explore and share insights about Shitsurai and the seasonal wisdom embedded in Japanese living traditions.