Bonsai Workshop in the Heart of Tokyo

Why choose this activity?

• Learn from a true bonsai expert: Meet a specialist and gain hands-on guidance rooted in years of professional bonsai practice.
• Access rare, centuries-old bonsai: Observe exceptional bonsai specimens, some over 100 years old, normally inaccessible to the public.
• Create your own bonsai in a unique setting: Practice pruning and shaping techniques in an elegant space overlooking Tokyo Station.

Available language: English, French

Activity type: Cultural workshop

Duration: Approx. 1h

Meeting point: Daimaru Tokyo, Tokyo station

What is Bonsai?

Bonsai is the Japanese art of cultivating and shaping miniature trees to express the beauty of nature in a compact, living form. More than simple gardening, bonsai is a dialogue between the artist and the tree, guided by patience, observation, and respect for natural growth. Each cut, curve, and adjustment reflects an intention to balance aesthetics, vitality, and time.

During this experience, you will discover bonsai not only as an art form but as a living practice passed down through generations. By observing historic bonsai and working on your own piece, you will gain a deeper understanding of how tradition, craftsmanship, and nature come together in this uniquely Japanese discipline.

Why choose the Bonsai Workshop in Tokyo?

Bonsai has been practiced in Japan for centuries as a way to capture the essence of landscapes, seasons, and the passage of time within a single tree. Traditionally cultivated by monks, aristocrats, and later master craftsmen, bonsai embodies values such as discipline, humility, and harmony with nature.

This activity offers a rare opportunity to explore bonsai in its authentic context—guided by an expert and surrounded by exceptional specimens, while staying in the center of Tokyo. By learning the principles behind pruning, wiring, and shaping, you will better understand how bonsai reflects Japanese aesthetics such as wabi-sabi and respect for impermanence. Even for beginners, this experience provides meaningful insight into a living art that continues to evolve while honoring centuries of tradition.

What happens during the activity?

1. Meet your bonsai expert and receive an introduction to bonsai principles
2. Visit the store’s bonsai collection and observe rare, historic trees (some over 100 years old)
3. Learn basic techniques for pruning and shaping
4. Create your own bonsai by cutting and curving branches under expert guidance
5. Free time to browse bonsai tools available for purchase in the store

※ Please note: the bonsai created during the workshop cannot be taken home due to customs regulations.

Additional Information

Group size: 1 to 10 participants

What’s Included:

• Guided bonsai workshop with a professional expert
• Access to the bonsai collection on display
• Use of tools during the workshop
• Materials needed to create your bonsai (excluding items for purchase)

What’s Not Included:

• Bonsai tools for purchase
• Transportation to/from the meeting point

Cancellation Policy:

• Up to 7 days before: Full refund
• Between 7 days and 5:00 PM the day before: 50% cancellation fee
• After 5:00 PM the day before or on the day: Non-refundable

Hotel pick-up: No

※ Things to know before booking

• The workshop takes place indoors and is not affected by weather conditions
• Bonsai created during the activity cannot be taken abroad due to customs regulations
• Bonsai tools are available for purchase if you already own a bonsai at home
• Comfortable clothing is recommended
• This activity is suitable for beginners; no prior experience is required