Welcome to Kagawa — the Holy Land of Bonsai

Hello everyone! My name is TAKA, and I am an interpreter and guide based in Kagawa, Japan.

Kagawa is home to many things that are considered the best in Japan. For most Japanese people, the first thing that comes to mind when they hear “Kagawa” is udon noodles. In fact, Kagawa has the highest number of udon restaurants per capita in the country, and their quality is legendary. On Tabelog, one of Japan’s largest gourmet review sites, 7 out of the top 10 udon restaurants nationwide are located right here in Kagawa.

Because of this, Kagawa has become synonymous with udon. However, there is another side to our prefecture that even many Japanese people don’t know about: Kagawa is also the “holy land” of bonsai.

To those unfamiliar with the art, bonsai might seem like a niche or distant world. Yet, Takamatsu City, the capital of Kagawa, is the largest producer of pine bonsai in Japan. Approximately 80% of all pine bonsai distributed domestically are grown here. In the bonsai community, Takamatsu is a “treasure island” known to enthusiasts worldwide.

But why did Takamatsu become such a vital hub for pine bonsai?

Interestingly, part of the answer lies in a connection to udon. Udon and pine bonsai—it’s an unexpected pairing, but it’s one deeply rooted in Kagawa’s unique history and lifestyle.

Through my brother-in-law, who works in landscaping, I was recently given the opportunity to learn firsthand at a local bonsai nursery. In this blog, I’ll share “behind-the-scenes” stories, insights from the producers, and small details that might change the way you look at bonsai.

I invite you to join me as I explore this fascinating world through the eyes of a local, a guide, and a new bonsai enthusiast.