Growing Beyond the Garden: The Best Online Learning Platforms for Bonsai Enthusiasts
The art of bonsai is rooted in tradition, yet it continues to evolve—quietly shaped by modern tools and digital connection. For those who may not have access to local workshops or mentorship, online learning offers an incredible opportunity to deepen your practice, refine your technique, and join a global community of bonsai growers.
At Maple Leaf Bonsai, we believe that great bonsai education meets you where you are. Whether you're just starting with your first tree or looking to expand your aesthetic and technical understanding, the platforms below offer thoughtful, well-structured resources guided by some of the most respected voices in the bonsai world.
Here are our top three recommendations for online bonsai education:
1. Eisei-en Bonsai-U
Created by: Bjorn Bjornholm
Website: www.bjornbjorholm.com/bonsai-u-membership
Bonsai-U is a fresh, accessible learning platform created by Bjorn Bjornholm, owner of Eisei-en Bonsai in Kyoto, Japan. Designed with beginners and intermediate students in mind, the platform offers structured video courses on fundamentals like wiring, pruning, repotting, and tree design. What sets it apart is its affordability and clear, practical teaching style.
Why we recommend it:
Bonsai-U feels like learning from a friend who just happens to be extremely knowledgeable. The content is concise, modern, and beginner-friendly—making it a great starting point for anyone looking to build confidence in their foundational skills.
2. Bonsai Mirai – Mirai Live Academy & Forum
Created by: Ryan Neil
Website: live.bonsaimirai.com
Ryan Neil’s Mirai Academy is perhaps the most immersive and visually captivating online bonsai resource available today. With hours of studio-quality video content, live streams, and deep dives into species-specific care, Bonsai Mirai is ideal for those who want to truly explore the artistry and philosophy of bonsai. The accompanying Mirai Forum is also a treasure trove of discussions, critiques, and community engagement.
Why we recommend it:
If you're seeking mentorship-level learning and want to develop your eye for design, Mirai will elevate your understanding of bonsai in ways few platforms can. It’s not just education—it’s a creative environment.
3. Bonsai Tonight
Created by: Jonas Dupuich
Website: bonsaitonight.com/guides
A long-respected name in American bonsai, Jonas Dupuich’s Bonsai Tonight is a blog-style educational hub filled with practical how-to articles, photo essays, and seasonal guidance. The Bonsai Tonight Forum is a well-moderated space for questions, feedback, and inspiration. Dupuich’s tone is friendly, honest, and rooted in decades of hands-on experience.
Why we recommend it:
Perfect for those who learn best by reading and observing, Bonsai Tonight makes advanced concepts feel accessible and relevant. It’s also an ideal companion for those who enjoy seasonal, tree-by-tree care insights.
Final Thought
The beauty of bonsai is that it rewards lifelong learning. Whether you’re watching a master wire a black pine or reading about fungal prevention in a forum thread, each lesson brings you closer to understanding the quiet language of trees.
As your practice grows, consider pairing your in-person work with one of these online communities. The wisdom is out there—rooted in tradition, but reaching toward new light.
