Hands-on Bonsai Experience in Bonsai Mecca near Tokyo

Bonsai is the traditional Japanese art of creating miniature natural landscapes in containers using tree branches, which is increasingly gaining worldwide recognition. Learn in depth about bonsai from a dedicated instructor and get a hands-on experience in Bonsai-cho which, just as the name suggests, is a mecca for bonsai lovers, located less than an hour from central Tokyo.

During this 2-hour session, you get to try some of the most important techniques for maintaining bonsai such as pruning, not to mention treat your eyes with hundreds of top-quality bonsai pieces, coupled with extensive commentary by the instructor. Whether you are a complete beginner who wants to know what bonsai is all about, or a bonsai enthusiast who aims to further your knowledge and skills, you are sure to love this experience!!

You'll meet your instructor at Toro Station in Saitama City, about half an hour train ride from central Tokyo, and walk for about 15 min to get to Bonsai-cho area with cobbled streets lined with beautifully trimmed hedges and shrubs.

Once you get to Tojuen, one of the 5 prominent bonsai nurseries in the town, the instructor will give you a brief introduction to the history of Bonsai-cho and bonsai in general.

Then you'll be off to a quaint cafe (or a community space, depending on the day) where you can try your hand at essential bonsai techniques such as pruning and wire shaping in a relaxed atmosphere. If you have any bonsai-related questions, feel free to ask away!

Finally you'll visit an outdoor bonsai garden, or if it rains, Omiya Bonsai Art Museum (admission fee:300 yen), where you'll be given tips on how best to enjoy bonsai viewing, as well as how to pick good bonsai specimens, while browsing masterpieces created by talented bonsai artists.
*Please come with weather appropriate clothing (hat, coat, etc.) and shoes suitable for walking.
*Large baggage such as backpacks is not allowed in the bonsai garden. Please store it in the coin-operated lockers at the station.
*The trees used during the experience cannot be taken home.