School Details
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does signing up work?
After contacting us about the Immersive Bonsai Course, we will e-mail you with availability. Once your time slot has been decided, we will then ask you to pay a $250 USD deposit.
What subjects are covered in each session?
Each session can be tailored to your individual needs. Choose from horticultural, maintenance and design techniques pertaining to a range of coniferous and broadleaf bonsai species - everything from the mechanics of heavy bending on Junipers to grafting on Pines and developing ramification on Maples to understanding Japanese aesthetics in bonsai display. We can also arrange day excursions to other gardens or nurseries in Kyoto/Osaka upon request.
Single-day classes are $500/day. One week sessions (Monday thru Friday) are $2500 USD. Four week sessions will receive a 20% discount ($2500x4-20%=$8000 USD). All programs include a box lunch everyday, as well as all program learning, materials, excursions, etc.
How do I pay for the program?
After signing up, we will send you a payment invoice via e-mail for the $250 deposit. The remaining amount owed can be paid directly at Eisei-en Kyoto in cash during your program period.
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposit is fully refundable for cancellations made more than 90 days prior to the scheduled program start date. Deposit will not be refunded if cancellation occurs less than 90 days before the program start date.
How many students are in each class?
In order to provide the best possible educational experience, we will only take on one to three students at a time.
What kind of trees can I expect to work on at each session?
We will try to source whatever species/level/size of tree you are hoping to learn about and work on during your program. Please let us know if you have any specific requests.
Will tools and wire be provided at each session?
Both copper and aluminum wire, as well as all necessary tools, will be provided during your session.
What about lodging?
There are many inexpensive hotels and air-bnbs in Kyoto, including not too far from the garden. We will provide location information close to the nursery to make the booking process easier for you. If you are attending the program for two or more weeks and would prefer to rent a long-term apartment, we can facilitate this process for you.
Is airport pick-up/drop-off provided?
Eisei-en Kyoto will not provide airport pick-up/drop-off; however, we will provide easy-to-follow details on how to get to both the nursery and lodging.
Will food/drinks be provided?
Water, tea and coffee will be provided throughout the day. Lunch will also be included each day.
What will the daily schedule look like?
We will begin each day at 9am, followed by a one-hour lunch break from noon-1pm. From 1-5pm we will resume working on material in the garden/workshop.
Will we be using power tools in class?
For the safety of all students, power tools will not be allowed in the courses.
What are the recommended times for attending the program?
As bonsai work is largely seasonally dependent, we recommend the following time periods for these specific subjects:
January - wiring conifers, deciduous refinement
February thru April - school is closed (except for one-day classes)
May - deciduous/broadleaf techniques, wiring junipers
June - double-flush pines, hinokis, cryptomeria, junipers
July thru October - school is closed (except for one-day classes)
November - conifer and deciduous wiring/styling
December - school is closed (except for one-day classes)