The Bonsai Show: Wood & Stone
January 10–March 30, 2025
Step into a miniature world of timeless beauty where stones become mountains, and intricately crafted trees evoke ancient forests. Experience the serene beauty of bonsai this winter with 20 works by artisans from the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society and a display of suiseki viewing stones.
Suiseki, naturally shaped ‘water stones’ displayed on wooden stands, evoke mountains and natural scenes, perfectly complementing the bonsai. This Japanese art form, meaning ‘planted in a container,’ creates miniature replicas of full-grown trees through careful pruning and shaping.
From tiny shohin bonsai to larger specimens, you’ll see Asian and California-native trees like pines, elms, and redwoods. Enjoy tea, rake a Zen rock garden, join bonsai demonstrations, or try haiku in the redwood forest. Visit our calendar for details.
Explore our winter Garden to find full-sized versions of bonsai miniatures with this tree map.
With support from:
Public Programs
REBS Docent Schedule
Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., a knowledgeable docent from REBS will be available to engage with Garden guests, answer questions, and share insights about bonsai.
Haiku in Motion: A Zen Inspired Guided Meditation Hike
Take a soul-nourishing journey blending nature, mindfulness, and artistry. This unique experience combines a meditative hike to the Garden’s highest point with the tranquil essence of bonsai and the simplicity of haiku. Along the way, pause for moments of zen, mindful breathing, and scenic reflection. Embrace the harmony of nature as you find your center and immerse yourself in the art of living poetry.
This program is held outdoors. Please dress accordingly and bring water.
March 15, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
$35 per person | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Sonoma Yoga is rooted in community and growing with you. Over 20 years, they have built a dynamic team of yoga, fitness, and meditation guides to help expand your practice. Registration is through Sonoma Yoga’s website.
Register Here
Spring Equinox Sound Bath
Celebrate the renewal of spring with a serene sound bath in a tranquil garden setting inspired by Zen traditions. Participants will be immersed in soothing sounds that harmonize with the landscape, inviting balance, relaxation, and inner peace. This special equinox gathering honors new beginnings, grounding us in the present and fostering a deep connection with the season’s unfolding energy.
Friday, March 21, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
$15 for members, $30 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
SOLD OUT
Collecting For Bonsai with George Haas
Join us for a demonstration on sourcing and collecting trees for bonsai presented by George Haas of the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society. Discover the unique challenges and rewards of finding raw material in urban settings and in the untamed wilderness.
Saturday, March 22, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Free for members, $15 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.