The 20 bonsai arrangements at the Imperial Palace will showcase plants such as pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms, symbolizing prosperity and longevity.
imperial palace bonsai

Imperial Household Agency staff prepare bonsai "harukazari" decorations to be displayed at the Imperial Palace for the New Year. December 24, Imperial Palace.

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Potted bonsai arrangements known as harukazari (literally "spring decorations") will be displayed at the Imperial Palace to celebrate the New Year. These arrangements were showcased to the press on December 24.

This meticulous work is overseen by the Imperial Household Agency's Garden Division, which manages the palace's renowned greenery.

The bonsai will be displayed from December 30 at the Imperial Palace.

Hopes for the Year Ahead

The creation of harukazari began earlier in December. The arrangements prominently feature red and white plum blossoms. They are complemented by auspicious plants symbolizing prosperity and longevity, such as pine, bamboo, senryo (nine-knotted flower), and manryo (Christmas berry). 

On this day, the final touches included carefully covering the soil with moss and spreading white decorative sand.

This year, a total of 20 bonsai arrangements were created, ranging in size from about 50 centimeters (20 inches) to over 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height. 

To make sure the plum blossoms are at 30% bloom by New Year's Day, they are cultivated in greenhouses under controlled conditions. 

These arrangements will be displayed on December 30 at various locations within the Imperial Palace, including the main palace and the Imperial residence.

A gardener adds the finishing touches to a bonsai with white sand.

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Author: The Sankei Shimbun

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