Event Information

Enjoy a unique opportunity to learn from Shinji Suzuki, one of Japan’s most celebrated bonsai masters. Exclusive to members of Portland Japanese Garden, this small‑group program offers a deeper look into the art and philosophy of bonsai display in a warm and approachable setting.

Through a combination of conversation, demonstration, and a guided walk through our Ellie M. Hill Bonsai Terrace, members can explore the beauty and cultural significance of bonsai while supporting the Garden’s aspiration of sharing and preserving Japanese arts and traditions.

Program

A focused talk and live demonstration on the aesthetic principles of bonsai display
Guided walk through the Ellie M. Hill Bonsai Terrace led by Shinji Suzuki, offering further insight into display considerations and aesthetic decision‑making
Opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with the bonsai master
Light refreshments to complement the program experience

With capacity limited to just 20 participants to preserve the quality of the experience, early registration is strongly encouraged.

About Shinji Suzuki

Shinji Suzuki

A world-renowned bonsai master from Obuse, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, Suzuki began studying the art of bonsai at age 17 under the legendary master Motohiko Hamano. At just 36 years old, he won his first Japanese Prime Minister Award, making him the youngest person to receive the award at that time. Since then, Suzuki has become a consistent award winner at major national Japanese bonsai exhibitions including the prestigious Kokufu, Sakufu, and Taikan exhibitions, and he holds the record for receiving the most Prime Minister Awards in Japan. Through the dialogue with trees, Suzuki pursues the art of life, expressing the cycle of life and beauty, in his work. In addition to his remarkable bonsai practice, Suzuki is also passionate about introducing the beauty and essence of bonsai to the world.

About the Japanese Garden Training Center

Japan Institute of Portland Japanese Garden’s Japanese Garden Training Center teaches the traditional skills and techniques for creating and fostering Japanese gardens, while acquainting learners with a garden’s cultural heart. The Training Center offers learners of all levels, from elementary school students to horticulture enthusiasts to seasoned professionals, the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese garden and its philosophies. It offers workshops, themed tours, school programs, lectures, professional seminars, and design intensives.

About Japan Institute

Japan Institute was established in 2020 as a global cultural initiative of Portland Japanese Garden. This sibling organization is the programmatic arm of Portland Japanese Garden, allowing us to share and expand our cultural programs more broadly around the world, deepen international partnerships, and continue to engage diverse people in shared experiences and conversations about peace, beauty, and connection of nature.

Portland Japanese Garden and Japan Institute share the mission: Inspiring Harmony and Peace.