Date of Issue : 23 Oct 2006
Postmark : Tokyo
Denomination : 2 x 80 yen
Stamp Size : 18.5 mm x 48 mm
Paper : Phosphorised
Printing Process : Photogravure
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Ikebana was introduced in Japan in the 6th century by Chinese Buddhist missionaries who had formalised the ritual of offering flowers to the Buddha. Ikebana International was founded in 1956. Headquartered in Tokyo, it is dedicated to spreading the knowledge of ikebana through study and practice. This stamp issue is in conjunction with the 9th World Convention of Ikebana International held from 27 to 30 Oct 2006. It also commemorates the 50th anniversary of Ikebana International in 2006. The stamps depict autumn flowers and Japanese oxcart for the court noble.