Established in 1953, the Sogetsu Foundation promotes various activities to research and diffuse ikebana and to contribute to the enhancement of Japanese culture. Located in Akasaka, Tokyo, the headquarters manages ikebana classes in Tokyo and Osaka. The Foundation has 49 branches in Japan - one in every prefecture, three in Tokyo and over 100 overseas branches/study groups in 34 countries and areas. Branches and study groups regularly hold workshops, demonstrations, and exhibitions to enhance local cultural activities.

The late Iemoto (Headmaster) Sofu Teshigahara (1900-1979) established the Sogetsu School in 1927. Believing that ikebana should be both enjoyable and creative, Sofu developed a school of ikebana that was deeply rooted in Japanese tradition yet embraced the evolving requirements of the modern age. The changes of Japanese lifestyles and release of the Japanese traditional mentality after World War II made the novel and original Sogetsu ikebana available to everyone. In this way Sofu spread the art of Sogetsu ikebana throughout the world, as well as staging exhibitions of his own ikebana-based sculptures. Sofu's close relationships with many Western artists helped make the term ikebana known to many people throughout the world.

Kasumi Teshigahara (1933-1980), the daughter of and successor to Sofu, started her career as an ikebana artist after World War II. Her elegant, feminine, yet dynamic works charmed many overseas enthusiasts of ikebana.

Hiroshi Teshigahara, Sofu's son, was Iemoto from 1980 until his death in 2001. His keen sensitivity and outstanding ability found expression in a very contemporary use of space.

The daughter of Hiroshi, Akane Teshigahara, succeeded her father as Headmaster of Sogetsu. Her gorgeous and delicate works have been displayed on many occasions. She conducts nimble and dynamic ikebana demonstrations that are highly regarded by audiences in Japan and overseas.