Our guide is Koji Hiramatsu. One of Japan's foremost bonsai artisans, yet he would never call himself a master who has arrived. Those close to him call him "Boss" or "Sensei" with deep affection.
The teacher-dialogue feature "Letters" receives many questions every day. But rather than giving direct answers, showing the posture of thinking for oneself is Sensei's way.
In his years as an apprentice, his father and mentor rarely taught technique through words. When he sought guidance, the reply was always the same: "Think for yourself." Through the steady practice of observing, reflecting, and choosing on his own, Hiramatsu gradually came to understand — bonsai is not a path that leads to a final destination.
Before every tree, questions arise. Should this branch remain, or be removed? Is this a time for change, or for patience? Each decision is irrevocable, and their accumulation is what shapes the singular character of each tree. Precisely because there is no single right answer, one has no choice but to keep engaging. In that tension and stillness, he discovered the essence of bonsai.
To share authentic bonsai with the world, the guide began traveling actively abroad. In Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia — people of different countries and languages gaze upon bonsai with remarkably the same eyes. What is conveyed transcends technique. He came to feel deeply that the very posture of engagement is itself a precious cultural heritage.
And so, even today, he passes on not answers but ways of thinking to his apprentices. No matter where they go or how many years pass, the journey of thought never ends. For Hiramatsu, bonsai is an ongoing dialogue with trees that lasts as long as life itself — it is life itself.
His calling is not to teach the right answers or shortcuts, but to show the back of someone who keeps seeking the path. To fulfill that calling, he faces the trees again today — waiting, imagining, choosing.
"However far you go, the journey continues."
Fourth-generation master, Hiramatsu Shunsho-en, Takamatsu, Kagawa.
Born December 23, 1967. In 1990, at the age of 23, he entered the way of bonsai. He refined his styling technique with wiring at its core, specializing in conifer and shohin bonsai across a wide range of care.
Has led demonstrations at the Asia Pacific Bonsai & Suiseki Convention (ASPAC) and the World Bonsai Convention. Conducts workshops and training abroad in China, France, Italy, Australia, and beyond, with ongoing international presence.
Ask Guide Hiramatsu directly about your bonsai.
Go to LettersA few recordings, viewable with membership alone. Wherever your heart leads——take that first step.
The way begins here.
Begin the Journey