March 22, 2025
The Primary Purpose of Bonsai and a Potential Solution, as Seen Through its History
Bonsai, alongside the spread of Zen culture, became popular among the upper classes during the Muromachi period. However, the bonsai culture we know today is believed to have been established in the early Edo period, particularly during the reign of the third Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu. Unlike his predecessors, Tokugawa Ieyasu and Hidetada, Iemitsu lacked the experience of a warlord and was more inclined towards cultural pursuits.During this time, bonsai evolved beyond mere plant cultivation into an "art of appreciation," focusing on the tree’s form and grandeur. Bonsai became cherished among the daimyo and samurai classes, and they were displayed in gardens and grand residences across various domains. This cultural shift was influenced by the era of peace following the warring states period, encouraging the samurai to adopt refined hobbies.
It is thought that Iemitsu, in his efforts to curb the military power of feudal lords (daimyo) and consolidate his own position, promoted bonsai as part of his policies. Highly cautious and often fearing rebellion, Iemitsu implemented numerous measures to stabilise the shogunate. For instance, he modified traditional seating arrangements into the modern "seiza" posture, preventing sudden attacks from those seated nearby. Furthermore, by enforcing the "sankin-kotai" system, which required daimyo to alternate residence between their domain and Edo, he weakened their economic power and reinforced central control.
In this context, promoting bonsai played a significant role in redirecting the samurai’s mindset. Plants possess a calming effect, making them well-suited to reducing martial or rebellious thoughts. By appreciating bonsai, daimyo found tranquillity and mental equilibrium.
The practice of bonsai appreciation also helped instil an understanding of natural beauty and fostered inner peace, contributing to the continued stability of a peaceful society. With daimyo focusing on arts and culture rather than conflict, shogunate rule became more secure, and the spirit of the samurai class softened.
Bonsai appreciation became part of a refined education, alongside practices like the tea ceremony and calligraphy. Some daimyo were particularly passionate about bonsai, employing craftsmen to cultivate stunning bonsai for their gardens. Additionally, bonsai served as prestigious gifts, with rare or uniquely shaped bonsai playing a vital role in diplomatic exchanges, strengthening relationships among powerful figures.
As bonsai culture flourished during the Edo period, the concept of “retained bonsai craftsmen” emerged. These skilled artisans primarily cared for bonsai owned by daimyo and prominent samurai, refining their techniques over time.
The primary purpose of bonsai during the Edo period lay in “appreciation.” While modern bonsai culture often emphasises the joy of nurturing plants, Edo-era bonsai owners focused solely on admiring their beauty, entrusting care and maintenance to skilled artisans. Bonsai during this time evolved into an “art of appreciation,” celebrated for the elegance and grandeur of the trees rather than merely being cultivated plants.
Three key factors underpinned Edo bonsai culture:
Even today, bonsai continues to be cherished by many. However, the ways people enjoy bonsai have shifted, with a growing focus on the act of nurturing itself. Yet, the essence of bonsai remains unchanged—it is about appreciating its beauty and connecting with it.
Given that the essence of bonsai lies in “admiration” and “appreciation,” how can modern individuals, unable to employ dedicated bonsai craftsmen, enjoy this tradition? One potential solution is the creation of artisanal bonsai by craftsmen who understand the essence of bonsai. These maintenance-free creations retain their beauty over time, offering a way for people to admire bonsai without the challenges of care.
It is thought that Iemitsu, in his efforts to curb the military power of feudal lords (daimyo) and consolidate his own position, promoted bonsai as part of his policies. Highly cautious and often fearing rebellion, Iemitsu implemented numerous measures to stabilise the shogunate. For instance, he modified traditional seating arrangements into the modern "seiza" posture, preventing sudden attacks from those seated nearby. Furthermore, by enforcing the "sankin-kotai" system, which required daimyo to alternate residence between their domain and Edo, he weakened their economic power and reinforced central control.
In this context, promoting bonsai played a significant role in redirecting the samurai’s mindset. Plants possess a calming effect, making them well-suited to reducing martial or rebellious thoughts. By appreciating bonsai, daimyo found tranquillity and mental equilibrium.
The practice of bonsai appreciation also helped instil an understanding of natural beauty and fostered inner peace, contributing to the continued stability of a peaceful society. With daimyo focusing on arts and culture rather than conflict, shogunate rule became more secure, and the spirit of the samurai class softened.
Bonsai appreciation became part of a refined education, alongside practices like the tea ceremony and calligraphy. Some daimyo were particularly passionate about bonsai, employing craftsmen to cultivate stunning bonsai for their gardens. Additionally, bonsai served as prestigious gifts, with rare or uniquely shaped bonsai playing a vital role in diplomatic exchanges, strengthening relationships among powerful figures.
As bonsai culture flourished during the Edo period, the concept of “retained bonsai craftsmen” emerged. These skilled artisans primarily cared for bonsai owned by daimyo and prominent samurai, refining their techniques over time.
The primary purpose of bonsai during the Edo period lay in “appreciation.” While modern bonsai culture often emphasises the joy of nurturing plants, Edo-era bonsai owners focused solely on admiring their beauty, entrusting care and maintenance to skilled artisans. Bonsai during this time evolved into an “art of appreciation,” celebrated for the elegance and grandeur of the trees rather than merely being cultivated plants.
Three key factors underpinned Edo bonsai culture:
- The upper class’s emphasis on garden culture
- Recognition of bonsai as part of a refined education
- The samurai class’s pursuit of mental enrichment during an era of peace
Even today, bonsai continues to be cherished by many. However, the ways people enjoy bonsai have shifted, with a growing focus on the act of nurturing itself. Yet, the essence of bonsai remains unchanged—it is about appreciating its beauty and connecting with it.
Given that the essence of bonsai lies in “admiration” and “appreciation,” how can modern individuals, unable to employ dedicated bonsai craftsmen, enjoy this tradition? One potential solution is the creation of artisanal bonsai by craftsmen who understand the essence of bonsai. These maintenance-free creations retain their beauty over time, offering a way for people to admire bonsai without the challenges of care.
