8th World Bonsai Convention in Saitama

It's been a good 28 years since the World Bonsai Convention last visited Japan. First held in 1989 in Saitama, arguably the birthplace of bonsai, it takes place once every four years and has travelled as far as the US, South Korea and Germany for past editions. But it's returning to its roots this time, and sure looks appetising for mini-tree enthusiasts: Prince Akishino has been named honorary president, while the programme includes demos and meet 'n greets with established national and international bonsai creators, hands-on 'Japanese culture experiences' and much more. In addition, over 300 'local bonsai' from across the country will be on display, making this one the biggest bonsai exhibition in the world – not that big is necessarily beautiful when it comes to this particular topic. Anyway, if you go bananas for bonsai, it should be well worth spending some quality tree time up in Saitama in April.