Cheapo Weekend for February 8/9: Bonsai, Craft Markets and Media Arts

Written by Carey Finn

Bonsai by , used under a Creative Commons Licence. — Bonsai by Gerard Stolk, used under a Creative Commons Licence. | Photo by Gerard Stolk used under CC

While the weather might have taken a snowy turn, you can still get out and enjoy a bit of nature this weekend.

The second part of the 88^th Kokufu Bonsai Exhibition kicks off at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum this Sunday, giving you a chance to admire traditional Japanese art in the form of 500 tiny trees. For a change of perspective, head over to Yushima Tenmangu Shrine to enjoy the early plum blossoms – the festival celebrating the sweet-smelling flowers starts Saturday.

If you’re in the mood for a spot of shopping, drop by the Zoushigaya Craft Market at Kishimojindo Shrine on Sunday to browse hand-made crafts and try homemade baked goodies. Inspired by all the creativity? Check out the 17^th Japan Media Arts Festival at Tokyo Midtown. Over 4 000 contemporary works, including animation and manga, will be on display.

Find a Creative Job in Japan

Hand-picked creative jobs and jobs at creative companies in Tokyo & Japan. We find employers who have flexible work conditions, don't neccessarily have Japanese language requirements and are open to applications from outside of Japan. Updated every week!

Click here for details

And if all that’s not enough for you, you can go run around the Imperial Palace – literally. There’s a 5-10km charity walk/run event in support of refugees on Sunday morning, with a prize for the best costume.

Written by: Carey Finn

Carey's Tokyo favorites are: Shuzenji Day Trip: Little Kyoto, Near Tokyo, Morning Sumo Practice in Tokyo—Everything You Need To Know