It is a great honor and privilege that Takamatsu was selected as the next host city for the Asia-Pacific Bonsai Suiseki Convention and Exhibition (ASPAC) during the 10th ASPAC conference in Taiwan.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation and great esteem for the tireless efforts made by the Preparing Committee as well as all who have supported this project over the years.

It is said that, in Takamatsu, the art of Bonsai began during the Edo Period when local fanciers replanted pine trees, which were found naturally along the Seto Inland Sea, in pots and pruned. Kinashi and Kokubunji are the heart of Bonsai industry and well known for the Pine Bonsai with 80% of the domestic market share. It has also been exported outside the country and gained acceptance as the exemplary Bonsai of the world.

The next ASPAC conference is scheduled to be held in November 2011 at various venues in and around Takamatsu; including Ritsurin Garden, designated as a national special scenic beauty of Japan; the Ruins of Takamatsu Castle in Tamamo Park, known as one of the best three castles on the water in Japan; as well as Kinashi and Kokubunnji. The conference will take place at the International Conference Hall in Sunport Takamatsu, situated in the redevelopment complex around the Takamatsu Station.

In addition, I hope you will enjoy visiting our city’s landmarks, such as Yashima, Japan’s historic Genpei War battlefield, and tasting the Japan’s famous Sanuki Udon noodles and the local dishes including the fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.

In particular, from July 19 to October 31 this year, the Setouchi International Art Festival will take place over a 105-day period in Sunport Takamatsu and on 7 islands of the Seto Inland Sea, which has been acclaimed as the jewel of the world. Naoshima Island, one of the seven islands, is referred to as an island of contemporary art and was featured as one of the”seven places in the world you should see next” in Conde Nast Traveler, a prominent travel magazine. The festival is expected to attract many overseas visitors.

Along with these special occasions, we would like to promote the next ASPAC conference to not only Bonsai lovers but also every visitor to our city. We sincerely hope access to this website will entice you to come and visit Takamatsu city, Marine capital of the Seto Inland Sea.