John Naka's Goshin Bonsai
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Missvain" title="User:Missvain">Sarah Stierch</a> (CC BY 4.0)
NameJohn Naka's Goshin Bonsai
Species NameJuniperus chinensis 'Foemina'
Common NameFoemina Juniper
Bonsai Styleforest
Estimated Age (years)150
Container TypeUnglazed rectangular ceramic
Geographic Originasia
Cultivation Difficultyexpert
Trunk Featuresmultiple trunks, deadwood (jin and shari), aged bark, taper
Foliage TypeScale-like needles, evergreen
Height (cm)150
Nebari (Root Flare) Qualityexcellent
Notable FeaturesWorld-renowned forest planting by John Naka, a masterpiece of bonsai art, prominently displayed at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. The composition was started in 1948, incorporating trees that were already mature, with the oldest estimated to be over 100 years old at that time.
Description
This iconic forest planting, known as Goshin, features multiple Foemina Juniper trees arranged to mimic a natural grove. It showcases extensive natural and created deadwood (jin and shari) on many trunks, with varying trunk sizes and foliage masses contributing to a profound sense of depth and age. The composition is a masterpiece of bonsai art, representing a lifetime of dedication.
