Japan’s MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES To Celebrate Tradition With Senko Ikenobo As Godmother Of New Ship MITSUI OCEAN FUJI

Published on November 28, 2024

MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES, Japan’s most seasoned cruise line, has announced that the esteemed Senko Ikenobo, the Headmaster Designate of the Ikenobo school of ikebana, will officially christen its newest vessel, MITSUI OCEAN FUJI, during a traditional maritime ceremony in Tokyo Bay on December 7, 2024.

Senko Ikenobo’s appointment marks a historic milestone for the Ikenobo school of ikebana, as she becomes the first woman to hold the prestigious title of Headmaster Designate. This momentous occasion not only represents a new chapter for the school but also offers a fresh perspective on an art form steeped in centuries-old tradition. Founded in the 15th century by Ono no Imoko during Japan’s Muromachi period, the Ikenobo school remains the oldest and most influential ikebana institution in the world.

Rooted in the philosophy of fostering harmony between nature and humanity, the Ikenobo tradition of ikebana transcends mere flower arranging. It embodies a mindful practice that encourages practitioners to engage deeply with the natural world, shaping not only the arrangement but the spirit of the artist as well.

Tsunemichi Mukai, President of MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES, remarked: “It’s inspiring to see how Senko Ikenobo’s artistry and values align with the essence of our new ship, and we’re honored she accepted our invitation to officially name MITSUI OCEAN FUJI. Much like the delicate artistry of ikebana, which blends the natural beauty of flowers with the mindful arrangement of form and space, our ship symbolizes the experience fusion of nature, tradition and culture by offering beautiful encounters with Japan.”

On December 7, the naming ceremony for MITSUI OCEAN FUJI will be held onboard as the ship docks at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. In a heartwarming welcome, MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES’ other opulent vessel, Nippon Maru, will be stationed in Tokyo Bay to greet MITSUI OCEAN FUJI and bid her a journey of “fair winds and following seas.”

Before the ceremony, MITSUI OCEAN FUJI, with a capacity for 458 guests and a weight of 32,477 tons, will make her debut in Yokohama on December 1. This marks the arrival of Japan’s most luxurious all-suite cruise ship, which will embark on a six-day inaugural voyage, visiting Beppu, Busan, Shimonoseki, and returning to Tokyo by December 7. Boasting expansive public spaces, gourmet dining, vibrant entertainment, and mesmerizing ports of call, reservations are now open for her inaugural season, which includes exclusive New Year’s sailings and a grand 66-day Asia cruise.