From the Itoigawa River to the World: The Culture and History of True Kashiwa Bonsai
The background of the Itoigawa real cypress
Itoigawa Shimpaku is a very popular species among Japanese bonsai, known for its unique tree shape and leaf beauty. It is not only a work of art, but also the epitome of natural beauty. Whether as home decoration or collection, it can bring endless appreciation value and spiritual pleasure to people.
Origin and distribution
Itoigawa true cypress is native to Itoigawa City in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. The climate and soil conditions here are very suitable for the growth of true cypress. The most famous Itoigawa cypress grows on the cliffs of Mt. Meixing and Mt. Kurohime in Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture. The mountains in these areas are mainly composed of limestone, and true cypress usually grows on cliffs hundreds of meters high. This geographical environment makes it attractive to many bonsai enthusiasts.
Morphological characteristics
Itoigawa cypress is famous for its graceful shape and dense leaves. The leaves are compact and dark green in color. The delicate leaves and tough trunk together form the unique charm of true cypress. Tree trunks are often twisted and curved, displaying the natural beauty that has been baptized by time.
The Art of Divine Branches and Relics
In the maintenance and modeling of Itoigawa real cypress, sacred branches and relics are two important artistic techniques. These techniques not only add to the simple beauty of bonsai, but also demonstrate the toughness and vicissitudes of beauty of the trees.
Shari: Relicing involves removing the bark from a tree trunk to expose the white woody parts that look like a weathered or lightning-struck trunk. The relic technique is usually used to simulate the effect of trees being destroyed by natural forces in nature, symbolizing the power of life and the tenacity of trees to survive in the natural environment.
Jin: Shenzhi refers to the technique of partially removing the bark from a branch, leaving dead branches behind. These dead branches look like dead branches in nature and are often used to add an ancient and natural feel to bonsai, symbolizing death and rebirth and demonstrating the ability of trees to survive challenges and recover in the natural environment.
Symbolic meaning
Itoigawa true cypress is endowed with rich symbolic meanings due to its strong cold resistance and wind resistance:
- Tenacity and perseverance:The ability of Itoigawa True Cypress to survive in the harsh natural environment symbolizes tenacity and perseverance, reminding us that no matter how difficult we face, we should persevere and overcome challenges.
- Longevity and health:True cypress is a long-lived plant that can live for hundreds of years. In East Asian cultures, longevity trees are seen as symbols of health and longevity. Raising cypress bonsai can wish family members health, longevity and happiness.
- Spirituality and Spirituality:In some cultures, especially the Japanese, bonsai is viewed as a form of spiritual practice. Cultivating Itoigawa true cypress is not only the cultivation of plants, but also the exercise of one's own mind. It teaches patience, attentiveness, and sustained concentration.
Itoigawa true cypress is a kind of charming bonsai, not only because of their beauty, but also because of the profound meaning they carry. By caring for Itoigawa true cypress trees, we can feel the power of nature and inner peace.