Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Bonsai

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French version

Bonsai

盆栽
alternative words: potted plant, dwarf tree, miniature tree
keywords: art , china , craft
related topics: Kamakura period , Zen
related web sites: http://www.bonsai.co.jp , http://www.mini-bonsai.com , http://www.nsknet.or.jp/~ja2br/ , http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/~zh6m-nsi/
explanation: The art of cultivating dwarfing trees and means " tray planting". It appeared initially in China during Tang dynasty more than 1000 years ago and introduced into Japan during Kamakura period with Zen. It had developed then quickly in Japan because it answered perfectly needs of Samurai clans who seeked a rest between 2 battles. This art having declined in China, it has been exported and loved all over the world with the Japanese name of Bonsai.