Happy New Year! In the spirit of seasonal celebrations, here are some highlights from the 34th annual Taikan-ten. The photos are courtesy of Boon Manakitivipart. Boon has generously offered to share some photo highlights from his recent visit to Japan, and what better place to start than the Grandview Bonsai Exhibit held each November in Kyoto, Japan. Thanks Boon! […]
Japan
A final walk through Imai’s garden
Imai’s deciduous bonsai are as interesting as his conifers and include a large number of varieties. Most common among these are small chojubai – the current utility bonsai, or so it seems, among small specimens. Outside, however, were some of the larger trees. Ume – great age Chinese quince – great branches Interesting pot Zelkova […]
Pines in Imai’s garden
Chiharu Imai’s garden featured some great pines. Some of these were far more developed than others. Seeing less developed trees next to more mature specimens made it clear how bonsai can develop and improve over time. The juxtaposition also made it clear that Imai can do great work at both ends of this spectrum. White […]
Where good bonsai come from
One of the benefits of visiting bonsai nurseries in Japan – apart from seeing so many great trees – is getting a better sense of the person who maintains the nursery. Do they like conifers or deciduous trees, a large or small number of varieties, trees in development or well-refined bonsai? How long trees remain […]
More conifers and deciduous trees in Shiino’s garden
In addition to many black and white pines, Kentaro Shiino’s Kanagawa garden featured great examples of a number of varieties, including some beautiful junipers. Chinese juniper Chinese juniper Chinese juniper Chinese juniper One of the junipers was delicate enough to merit a post and zip tie support. To prevent tipping, the pot sat in a custom […]