2014 / Bonsai convention to be held in Takamatsu, Japan, Oct 29 – Nov 2

Takamatsu Bonsai Convention 2014

As one of biggest Japan’s bonsai shows, Takamatsu Bonsai Convention will be held from Oct. 29 through Nov. 3 in the City of Takamatsu which produces about 80% of pine bonsai trees in Japan.

The venues of the Takamatsu Bonsai Convention include the Tamamo Park at Hiunkaku Hall and Sakuranobaba (formerly riding ground) from Oct. 29  – Nov. 1; the Ritsutin Garden at the Kikugetsu-tei Tea House from Oct. 29 – Nov. 3; Kagawa Kinashi Ueki Bonsai Center from Oct. 31 – Nov. 2; and JA Kagawa Kokubunji Bonsai Center from Oct. 31 – Nov. 2.

Bonsai Suiseki Exhibition at Hiunkaku Hall in Tamamo Park

Oct. 29 (Wed) through Nov.1 (Sat), 10 am – 8 pm

Located inside the historical Takamatsu Castle built in 1590, the Hiunkaku Hall was a detached residence of the descendants of the Takamatsu lord in the early 20th century. Registered as an Important National Cultural Properties, the Hiunkaku Hall is a perfect setting for the bonsai and suiseki (viewing stones) displays. Admissions are 200 yen ($2).

Bonsai Demonstration at Sakura no baba in Tamamo Park

Oct. 30 (Thu) through Nov. 1 (Sat)

The bonsai demonstrations will feature three emerging bonsai artists: Mr. Kouji Hiramatsu, 46-year-old, on Oct. 30 from 1 – 5 pm; Mr. Bjorn Bjorholm, 28-year-old, on Oct. 31 from 1 – 5 pm; and Mr. Taiga Urushibata, 35-year-old, on Nov.1 from 1 -4 pm.

Mr. Hiramatsu is the fourth generation owner of Hiramatsu Syunsyuo-en nursery. His specialty is in shohin (small pieces) genre of bonsai. Mr. Hiramatsu is the official demonstrator of All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association.

Mr. Bjorholm was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, and started bonsai at the age of 13. He has been in apprenticeship at Fujikawa Kokaen nursery in Ikeda city, Osaka since 2008. He teaches bonsai at Fujikawa International Bonsai School and travels around the world to teach bonsai.

Mr. Urushibata was apprenticed under renowned bonsai master Mr. Masahiko Kimura for 6 years. He is the second generation owner of Taisho-en nursery. He has been invited to Spain, France, Poland, Italy, and Colombia so far.

Bonsai Suiseki Exhibition at the Kikugetsutei Tea House in the Ritsurin Garden

Oct. 29 (Wed) through Nov. 3 (Mon) from 9 am – 4:30 pm

Bonsai and suiseki (viewing stones) will be displayed inside the Kikugetsutei Tea House and at the surrounding gardens. Entrance fee to the Ritsusin Garden is 410 yen ($4), and a ticket for green tea with Japanese sweets at Kikugetsutei is 500 yen ($5). The Ritsurin Garden was originally constructed in the 17th century, and its strolling gardens with sprawling hills and ponds are extending over 28 acres.

Kinashi Bonsai Gardening Festival at Kagawa Kinashi Ueki Bonsai Center

Oct. 31 (Fri) – Nov. 2 (Sun) 9 am – 4:30 pm

Kokubunji Bonsai Center Big Exhibition and Sale at JA Kagawa Kokubunji Bonsai Center

Oct. 31 (Fri) – Nov. 2 (Sun) 9 am – 4:30 pm

Kinashi and Kokubunji areas have a long history of producing pine bonsai trees. Dozens of fine bonsai nurseries in the areas will welcome all who visit. Bonsai growers, hobbyists, venders will gather at the event.

Kinashi Bonsai Center will host bonsai exhibitions, auctions, and workshops. Two-hour workshops will be held every morning from 10 am – 12 pm. Only 20 people are allowed to attend per session. Fees are 20,000 yen ($200). Registration required.

Kokubunji Bonsai Center will present the bonsai exhibition with local vendors. The exhibition will include kusamono (accent planting), tools, and consultations.

Welcome Reception

Oct. 29 (Wed) at 6:30 pm. Japanese cuisine and cultural programs will be provided. Fees are 10,000 yen ($100) per person. Registration required.

For more information, visit www.takamatsu-bonsai-convention.jp/en