Nihon Bungeisha (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) has released 'Bonsai Illustrated Guide' (co-authored by Yukio Hirose and Nobuyuki Hirose) on December 17, 2025, available at bookstores nationwide and online retailers.
About the Book
In recent years, "bonsai" has gained worldwide attention as part of Japanese culture, with growing popularity both overseas and domestically.
"Shohin bonsai" (small bonsai) in particular differs from regular gardening, featuring a unique worldview and maintenance methods. The selection and cultivation methods vary depending on the tree species.
This book explains the processes and techniques from scratch with detailed photos, making it easy to understand even for beginners—a definitive introductory guide to bonsai.
Featured Content
The book focuses on 14 bonsai species particularly popular with domestic and international enthusiasts (Akamatsu, Kuromatsu, Goyomatsu, Shimpaku, Sekka Hinoki, Kuchinashi, Keyaki, Momiji, Sakura, Satsuki, Chojubai, Tosa Mizuki, Kangumi, Kinzu), explaining cultivation methods carefully with step-by-step photos. By following the instructions, even beginners can create "valuable bonsai."
Furthermore, considering international popularity, the book features approximately 80 varieties of the same species with different tree forms and sizes. It also clearly explains work content and management points for each season.
*This book is a significantly expanded and re-edited version of 'Hajimete no Bonsai no Sodatekata' published in 2017.
Table of Contents
- Chapter 1: Basic Bonsai Knowledge
- Chapter 2: Basic Bonsai Management and Care Methods
- Chapter 3: How to Grow Popular Bonsai
- Chapter 4: Growing Bonsai by Tree Species
- Chapter 5: Adding Grass Accents
About the Authors
Yukio Hirose (Hirose Yukio)
Born in Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture in 1949. Graduated from Tokyo University of Agriculture. In 1973, opened "Yamatoen," a specialty shop for small bonsai, and has served as its owner to the present. From 2009 to 2017, served as Chairman of the All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association. Organizes bonsai events, fan clubs, and classes. Also serves as an instructor at various exhibitions. Supported 8 Prime Minister's Awards at Gafu Exhibition. Support for entries at Kokufu Bonsai Exhibition: 94 entries from the 57th to 82nd exhibitions (including 2 Kokufu Prize support). Two Organizing Committee Chairman Awards at Japan Bonsai Style Exhibition, and numerous other awards.
Positions:
- Former Chairman, All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association
- Certified Instructor, Japan Bonsai Association
- Former Chairman, Japan Shohin Bonsai Cooperative
- Certified Instructor, All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association
- Former Chairman, Executive Committee, 11th-16th Shuga Exhibition
- Former Chairman, Executive Committee, 30th-33rd Gafu Exhibition
- Member of Japan Bonsai Cooperative, Kanagawa Branch
URL: http://yamatoen.pos.to/
Official site: https://www.rakuten.co.jp/yamatoen-bonsai/
Nobuyuki Hirose (Hirose Nobuyuki)
Born in Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture in 1979. Started training under his father at Yamatoen in 2002. Has experience as an instructor at cultural centers. As a board member of the Japan Shohin Bonsai Cooperative, handles Style Exhibitions, Risshun Large Market, Shohin Bonsai Festival, and other activities, actively participating in the small bonsai industry. Received the Organizing Committee Chairman Award at the 40th Japan Bonsai Style Exhibition.
Positions:
- Obtained Certified Instructor qualification, All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association, 2006
- Appointed Board Member, Japan Shohin Bonsai Cooperative, 2025
Book Information
- Title: Bonsai Illustrated Guide
- Authors: Yukio Hirose and Nobuyuki Hirose
- Price: ¥2,860 (tax included)
- Format: B5
- Pages: 320 pages
- ISBN: 978-4-537-22343-9
- Release Date: December 17, 2025
https://www.nihonbungeisha.co.jp/book/b10152311.html
Where to Purchase
Available at bookstores nationwide and online retailers
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/453722343X/
- Rakuten Books: https://books.rakuten.co.jp/rb/18421575/
About Nihon Bungeisha
- Representative: President and CEO Hibiki Takemura
- Location: Palace Side Building 8F, 1-1-1 Hitotsubashi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0003
- Established: January 1959
- Capital: ¥100 million
- Number of Employees: 74 (as of March 31, 2025)
- Corporate Website: https://www.nihonbungeisha.co.jp
