Asuka Ishibashi 
Yoroikake no Matsu, a Japanese black pine once treasured by Tokugawa Yoshinobu, draws admiration at the Osaka-Kansai Expo site. May 19, Yumeshima, Osaka (©Sankei by Kan Emori)
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From May 19 to 22, the Expo 2025 Japanese Bonsai and Suiseki Exhibition brought together a stunning array of bonsai at the Osaka-Kansai Expo site.
Roughly 130 prized specimens from across Japan were on display. Among them was Yoroikake no Matsu (Armor-Hanging Pine), a black pine once treasured by Tokugawa Yoshinobu. Yoshinobu was the 15th and final shogun of the Edo period.
As bonsai garners growing interest overseas, the exhibit drew a large number of international visitors.
A Global Revival
Standing approximately 120 centimeters tall, Yoroikake no Matsu was the tallest tree in the collection. It captivated audiences with its powerful presence. According to the exhibition's organizing committee, global interest in bonsai surged following its appearance at Expo '70 in Osaka. This year, a few of those same bonsai made a rare return to public display.
In recent years, bonsai has seen a surge in popularity among young people around the world. In 2023, Japan's bonsai exports reached ¥920 million JPY (approximately $6.3 million USD, nearly double the figure from 2019.
Bo Pett, 29, who traveled from Australia to visit the exhibition, said his attraction to bonsai began through Japanese pop culture. He described bonsai as a fascinating and powerful cultural tradition, and mentioned that he had bought a pot and pruning tools with plans to try it at home.
"We hope this exhibition helps spread the appeal of bonsai culture," said Hiroki Miura, chair of the exhibition committee.
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Author: Asuka Ishibashi, The Sankei Shimbun
Asuka Ishibashi, bonsai, Oaka Expo, Expo 70, Tokugawa Yoshinobu,
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