Bonsai on the Rock: A Private Crafting Experience— Sculpting a Miniature Wilderness upon Stone —

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Marubashira, Iga City
Activity

Bonsai on the Rock: A Private Crafting Experience— Sculpting a Miniature Wilderness upon Stone —

90 mins (30 mins Lecture / 60 mins Workshop)
Private Workshop

In this experience, through the creation of "Ishizuki" (Bonsai on the Rock), you will discover how the Japanese people have historically interacted with nature, as well as their unique sense of aesthetics and perception of time.

Surrounded by mountains with significant temperature variations, Iga is blessed with high-quality soil and water, making it an ideal environment for nurturing Bonsai.

Furthermore, the qualities of "patience," "observation," and "silent focus" cultivated in this ninja heartland resonate deeply with the discipline of Bonsai.

The process of arranging trees on stone and layering moss to recreate a natural landscape is more than just learning a technique; it is a moment to regain a sense of reverence for and harmony with nature.

  • 01
    Welcome — Entering the World of Bonsai
    The experience begins with a welcome by Takebe, the caretaker of the garden. He will introduce what bonsai is, how it expresses natural landscapes, and the sense of beauty cultivated in Japanese culture.
  • 02
    Gallery Tour — Appreciating Bonsai
    You will view the bonsai displayed throughout the garden.
    Trees rooted firmly to stone, capturing the essence of natural scenery.
    Each bonsai is one of a kind — an expression of nature that can never be repeated.
  • 03
    Choosing the Stone and Tree
    Next, you will select the stone that forms the foundation of your work.
    By observing its shape, flow, and front, you begin to imagine the landscape that will emerge.
    You then choose a bonsai tree, carefully observing its character and movement to find harmony with the stone.
  • 04
    Stone-Planted Bonsai Workshop
    You will trim the roots and secure the tree to the stone using wire and keto soil.
    Finally, moss is carefully applied, completing a small natural scene crafted upon stone.
  • 05
    Completion & Commemorative Photo
    Your finished bonsai is displayed, and a commemorative photo is taken.
    The bonsai you create today will continue to change and grow with time.

武部 和広 (Kazuhiro Takebe)

日本盆栽協会認定講師 (Certified Instructor, Japan Bonsai Association)
After training at a historic nursery in Angyo, Saitama, he opened his own Bonsai garden in Iga in 2017. He aims to share the healing power of Bonsai and the profound joy of the moment a masterpiece is completed.
Price per person (1~20 person)
From ¥15,000 (English Guide fee not included)
English Guide fee from ¥20,000/per group
  • Duration
    90 mins (30 mins Lecture / 60 mins Workshop)
  • Location
    Marubashira Area, Iga (Details provided in booking confirmation)
  • Meeting Point
    Marubashira Area, Iga (Details provided in booking confirmation)
  • Language
    EnglishJapanese
  • Attire
    Clothing that you don't mind getting slightly dirty with soil.
Request to Book
*Availability is limited. Please contact us to check schedule
Informations

THINGS TO
KNOW

Clothing & What to Bring Please note that soil may get on clothing during the experience. We kindly recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.

Available Languages Japanese, English, Chinese, Spanish

Guest Eligibility

  • Ages 4 and above (participants must be able to join a seated experience)
  • Guests aged 12 and above are considered adults

Booking Deadline / Release Policy Reservations must be confirmed at least 10 days prior to arrival

Cancellation Policy

  • 10 days prior to arrival: 30% cancellation fee
  • 2 days prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee
  • 1 day prior to arrival / same day / no-show: 100% cancellation fee

Additional Notes

  • For guests traveling with children, parents or guardians are kindly requested to supervise children at all times.
  • Bonsai created during the experience cannot be taken overseas.
  • Guests residing in Japan may purchase the bonsai they create for approximately JPY 10,000–50,000 (cash and credit card accepted).

Included

  • Experience fee

Not Included / Optional

  • Bonsai take-home fee
  • Transportation / private transfer fee
  • Guide fee

Gallery

Combine with

Premium Iga Beef Lunch

After the training, replenish
your energy with local Iga Beef.
Read More

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