Published on
December 23, 2025
Kawaguchi City, located just north of Tokyo, is home to a 400-year tradition of bonsai culture, known as “Chitose Midori.” This vibrant area, blending urban convenience with centuries-old craftsmanship, has become synonymous with the iconic art of bonsai. As part of a new cultural initiative, Hachisuha BONSAI-Art is bringing this rich tradition directly to Tokyo with a unique bonsai-making workshop at Ikebukuro Station, one of Tokyo’s busiest transportation hubs.
Scheduled for January 24 and 25, 2026, this Small Bonsai-Making Workshop offers an exclusive opportunity for international visitors to engage in hands-on bonsai creation, under the supervision of seasoned bonsai artisans from Bonsai Kirakuen. Whether you are a first-time participant or a seasoned bonsai enthusiast, this workshop provides an accessible and immersive introduction to the Japanese art of bonsai.
A Unique Cultural Experience in the Heart of Tokyo
Set in the heart of one of Tokyo’s most vibrant urban districts, the bonsai workshop is held inside the AZLM TOBU Ikebukuro, allowing visitors to experience Japanese culture in the midst of bustling city life. Designed for tourists with short stays or flexible itineraries, this workshop offers a rare chance to learn a traditional Japanese craft while still enjoying the modern conveniences of Tokyo. The workshop’s focus is on “BON-Kei | Stillness and Movement × BONSAI-Art,” a theme that combines classical bonsai techniques with modern design sensibilities, blending time-honored traditions with a contemporary flair.
Participants will receive everything they need to create their own bonsai, including trees, pots, and tools. The hands-on nature of the workshop ensures a personalized experience where artisans guide each participant in tree selection, shaping, repotting, and caring for the plants. The experience is designed to connect travelers with Japanese values such as simplicity, balance, and mindfulness, with each participant leaving with their own handmade bonsai to continue cultivating at home.
Cultural Immersion Through Music and Mindfulness
To enhance the cultural experience, live performances of the traditional Japanese string instrument, the koto, will be held between workshop sessions. These performances, paired with the focused bonsai-making process, introduce the Japanese aesthetic concept of “Ma,” the beauty of space and pause. This calming atmosphere allows participants to slow down and connect with nature, making it a truly unique cultural experience in the middle of a fast-paced city.
The workshop will run three times daily, at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:30 PM, with each session limited to 10 participants to ensure an intimate, guided experience. This setup allows for close interaction with artisans, providing valuable insights into the art of bonsai while offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Premium Bonsai Experiences for the International Market
Following the Ikebukuro bonsai workshop, Hachisuha BONSAI-Art plans to offer additional premium experiences for international visitors beginning in February 2026. One of the highlights will be the Export-Ready Bonsai Premium Workshop, where participants will have the opportunity to create a bonsai eligible for export after a two-year quarantine period. Each bonsai will be paired with a unique vessel crafted by Kawaguchi-affiliated artists, offering a refined intersection of living art, craftsmanship, and time.
Additionally, a cultural walking experience will be introduced, allowing visitors to explore the bonsai and horticultural history of the Angyo–Akayama area. This guided tour will include visits to historic sites such as the Akayama Jinya and the Kawaguchi Green Center, all with multilingual support, providing a deeper cultural immersion beyond the typical tourist experience.
A Must-Do Cultural Experience for Travellers in Tokyo
The upcoming bonsai-making workshop in Ikebukuro Station offers a rare opportunity to experience Japanese tradition in a modern urban setting. Whether you’re an art lover, a first-time bonsai maker, or a cultural enthusiast, this hands-on workshop allows you to engage deeply with one of Japan’s most iconic crafts. As part of a wider cultural initiative, this program exemplifies the blend of tradition and innovation that defines modern Japan, providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience. Don’t miss the chance to create your own piece of living Japanese art and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of bonsai.
