does anyone know a Bonsai starter kit?

a nice bonsai tree (bamboo,maple,ect)with the items needed FOR INDOORS and preferably a book to teach for a BEGINNER thanks (cheap would be good)

Bonsai are real trees and require a lot of sunlight, regular watering and continuous care. While they are often photographed in indoor settings, they must spend most of their growing time in an area with moderate temperatures, little drying wind, and moderated but generous sun. A “kit” would consist of a properly styled container, copper wire, and dirt with an optional tree and would need a fair amount of work over a couple of years to produce a tree with proper growth. Check around and see if there is a bonsai group/club near you for better advice before you go on your own with a book.

Lucky Bamboo Bonsai


Miracle-Gro 100052 Liquid Houseplant Food - 8 oz


Miracle-Gro 100052 Liquid Houseplant Food – 8 oz


$1.93


MIRACLE GRO LIQUID HOUSEPLANT FOOD *8 oz. *Analysis: 8-7-6 *Promotes lush, healthy looking houseplants *Liquid concentrate-mix 10 to 20 drops per quart of water *Feed while you water *For all plants *Indoor/outdoor *Apply every 2 weeks for best results *Bottle…

Brussel's Lucky Bamboo, Pyramid 1 Layer


Brussel’s Lucky Bamboo, Pyramid 1 Layer


$17.00


In China, Lucky Bamboo is thought to bring good fortune. Although it is not considered bonsai, this unique plant is very elegant and extremely easy to grow. In order to display your lucky bamboo, simply secure the canes in the decorative rock and fill the container with water. The water should be replaced routinely. Lucky Bamboo will thrive in all light conditions….

Brussel's Money Tree Bonsai


Brussel’s Money Tree Bonsai


$14.99


According to Feng Shui masters, the Money Tree or Pachira is thought to bring good fortune and luck to those who place it in their home or office. As the Money Tree grows, it will sprout new stems of leaves which will unfold into a five leaf stem. Place the plant in bright, indirect light and keep evenly moist, not wet or dry. The Money Tree also makes an excellent office plant, thriving under ar…

Japanese Red Maple 'Bamboo Leaf' -  5 Seeds


Japanese Red Maple ‘Bamboo Leaf’ – 5 Seeds


$1.05


MAPLE TREES: Maple trees are large, deciduous trees that grow throughout the world. In the United States, they are more common in the northern states. Many people know maple trees for their spectacular fall color.
Japanese Red Maple
A great landscape tree for zones 5-9. Grows up to twenty five feet in height but is often pruned shorter. Also makes an excellent bonsai specimen….

9GreenBox - Live Spiral 3 Style Lucky Bamboo Plant Arrangement with Ceramic Vase Brown


9GreenBox – Live Spiral 3 Style Lucky Bamboo Plant Arrangement with Ceramic Vase Brown


$13.99


We’re selling one of this rare treasure! , The diameter of this plant is about 6″-8″ , 8″-10″ and 10″-12″ tall. Ceramic Vase IS 2.5″ IN LENGTH & 5 ” WIDE & 5″ IN HEIGHT. Please see the picture for the detail look for this Lucky Bamboo. Will include small amount of crystal soil to insurance you receive the top quality of the luck bamboo. We will ship with care instruction tag….

Brussel's DT0107G Gardenia Indoor Bonsai Tree


Brussel’s DT0107G Gardenia Indoor Bonsai Tree


$30.75


The Gardenia consist of full white flowers with a texture like the finest suede, glossy dark foliage with distinctive veins, legendary scent – Gardenias have it all. These trees bloom most prolifically from March through June, with flowers that emit an opulent fragrance, one that has been used for centuries in the making of perfumes….

Ty Beanie Ballz and Boo's - Panda Pack - Bamboo & Bonsai


Ty Beanie Ballz and Boo’s – Panda Pack – Bamboo & Bonsai


$11.99


TY BEANIE BALLZ 2 PACK PANDA BEARS AND FREE SHIPPING!!
Ty Beanie Ballz and Beanie Boo’s 2 pack of Panda Bears is the most adorable Black & White Panda Bears you have seen. These super silky soft Panda’s will make the perfect companion to any Ty collection.
Ty Beanie Balls Bonsai is the cutest, roundest Panda Bear perfect for snuggling, tossing or bouncing. He was born on March 5th, and bamboo is h…

1962 Catalog of Bamboo for Cold and Warm Climates (Unusual Trees And Shrubs Carved Japanese Stone Lanterns Bonsai Supplies And Other Different And Unusual Items)


1962 Catalog of Bamboo for Cold and Warm Climates (Unusual Trees And Shrubs Carved Japanese Stone Lanterns Bonsai Supplies And Other Different And Unusual Items)




Bonsai


Bonsai


$10


Bonsai

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4103) Bamboo


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4103) Bamboo


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4107) Satsuma


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4107) Satsuma


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4101) Tofu


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4101) Tofu


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4111) Tomkatsu


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4111) Tomkatsu


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4112) Kinoko


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4112) Kinoko


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4170) Fuji Dusk


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4170) Fuji Dusk


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Made in Turkey. Please purchase sufficient amounts as dye lots may vary. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo, 3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4165) Ryukyu Indigo


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4165) Ryukyu Indigo


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Made in Turkey. Please purchase sufficient amounts as dye lots may vary. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo, 3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4166) Shimpaker Juniper


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4166) Shimpaker Juniper


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Made in Turkey. Please purchase sufficient amounts as dye lots may vary. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo, 3% Nylon

no.SF560 bonsai


no.SF560 bonsai


$16.76


ca_product_FacetsTypeTattoo – no.SF560 bonsai;

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4155) Akane Red


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4155) Akane Red


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4108) Kirai Desu


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4108) Kirai Desu


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (1429) Pickled Ginger


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (1429) Pickled Ginger


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4134) Sumi Ink


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4134) Sumi Ink


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4130) Harajuku Pink


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4130) Harajuku Pink


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4151) Green/Gold


Berroco Bonsai Yarn (4151) Green/Gold


$6.48


Inspired by the rhythmic markings on a bamboo stalk, “Bonsai” is crafted of rayon made from bamboo fiber woven into a narrow (1/8″ wide) strand wrapped with a delicate nylon band for the tree striations. The result is an eco-friendly creation from a readily renewable fiber with wonderful drape & a touch of high sheen & glimmer. Ideal for all your knitting & crochet lightweight projects. Recommended Knit Needle Size: US 7 (4.5 mm)Knit Gauge: 20 sts X 26 rows= 4â€? (10 cm)Meterage/Yardage: 71 m/ 77 yds Ball Weight: 50 gramsWorsted Weight, Ribbon TextureFiber Content: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo/3% Nylon

Bamboo


Bamboo


$123


Bamboo:

Azalea Bonsai


Azalea Bonsai


$79.99


Richard Henson Azalea Bonsai – Framed Art Print

Bonsai I


Bonsai I


$59.99


Charlene Audrey Bonsai I – Framed Art Print

Bonsai II


Bonsai II


$59.99


Charlene Audrey Bonsai II – Framed Art Print

Bonsai III


Bonsai III


$59.99


Charlene Audrey Bonsai III – Framed Art Print

Bonsai IV


Bonsai IV


$64.99


Charlene Audrey Bonsai IV – Framed Art Print

Bonsai Pear


Bonsai Pear


$249.99


Lydia Marano Bonsai Pear – Art on Acrylic

Autumn Bonsai


Autumn Bonsai


$24.99


L. Toshio Kishiyama Autumn Bonsai – Photographic Print

Contemporary Pink Bonsai


Contemporary Pink Bonsai


$19.99


Contemporary Pink Bonsai – Wall Decal

Japanese Girls with Bonsai


Japanese Girls with Bonsai


$49.99


Japanese Girls with Bonsai – Giclee Print

Bonsai Sacred Tree


Bonsai Sacred Tree


$14.99


Bonsai Sacred Tree – Art Print

Bonsai Regular


Bonsai Regular


$29


Download the Bonsai Regular font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Bonsai Italic


Bonsai Italic


$29


Download the Bonsai Italic font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Bonsai Basics


Bonsai Basics


$11.54


Tailored to meet the needs of the first time bonsai owner, this book is an extensive directory of every major bonsai type. "Bonsai Basics explains in detail all the techniques needed to keep a bonsai alive and in good shape. Clear text and step-by-step illustrations ensure that even the most nervous newcomer can approach looking after bonsai with confidence. Filled with over 120 specially commissioned photographs and illustrations, the New Pyramid Bonsai Basics is an extensive directory of both indoor and outdoor trees and their characteristics.

Rusty Bonsai S/S Tee


Rusty Bonsai S/S Tee


$22


Rusty Bonsai S/S Tee

Bonsai Cave Tree


Bonsai Cave Tree


$59.99


OM Bonsai Cave Tree – Giclee Print

Bonsai Poets Tree


Bonsai Poets Tree


$59.99


OM Bonsai Poets Tree – Giclee Print

Bonsai Immortality Tree


Bonsai Immortality Tree


$59.99


OM Bonsai Immortality Tree – Giclee Print

Zen Bonsai I


Zen Bonsai I


$129.99


Jennifer Goldberger Zen Bonsai I – Art Print

Zen Bonsai III


Zen Bonsai III


$129.99


Jennifer Goldberger Zen Bonsai III – Art Print

The Bonsai Handbook


The Bonsai Handbook


$18.71


A combination of skillfully drawn artwork and breathtaking color photographs accompany inspiring descriptions that highlight every facet of bonsai practice: its aesthetics and anatomy; explanations of the different styles; growing your own bonsai; keeping plants healthy, pest-free, and in shape–indoors or out.

Bonsai Fall Foliage


Bonsai Fall Foliage


$24.99


L. Toshio Kishiyama Bonsai Fall Foliage – Photographic Print

Bonsai Tree at the National Arboretum


Bonsai Tree at the National Arboretum


$39.99


David Evans Bonsai Tree at the National Arboretum – Photographic Print

Hotel Bonsai


Hotel Bonsai


$72.51


Local attractions surrounding Hotel Bonsai include S’Albufera Natural Park. Hotel Features. Hotel Bonsai features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. The hotel serves a complimentary buffet breakfast. Recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness facility. High speed (wired) Internet access (surcharge) is available in public areas. Guest parking is complimentary. Additional property amenities include an elevator (lift). Guestrooms. Air conditioned guestrooms at Hotel Bonsai feature safes. All accommodations have balconies. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combinations. Wired high speed Internet access is available for a surcharge. Satellite television is provided.

Bonsai School


Bonsai School


$18.38


It’s big and beautiful, and the only course you need to cultivate bonsais successfully. From the author of the acclaimed "Bonsai for Beginners," this comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructional guide covers the basics and way beyond. One step at a time, he helps gardeners develop the necessary skills to create and maintain a beautifully shaped miniature potted tree. Everything imaginable is here, from choosing a suitable plant to wiring, pruning, and aging techniques, and finally expert tips on care. With its impressively large format, pages brimming with photos of dozens of specimens at different stages of growth, and preferred design techniques from world-famous bonsai artists, this is without a doubt the definitive reference on the subject. PRAISE FOR "BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS": "A thoroughly illustrated reference that will captivate and educate newcomers to the art…a wealth of personal insights accompanied by illustrations that are refreshing in their clarity and in the depth of the accompanying explanations."–"Bonsai Online."



 Pack of 6 Asian Fusion Glass Octagonal Christmas Ornaments 3


Pack of 6 Asian Fusion Glass Octagonal Christmas Ornaments 3


$69.99


From the Asian Fusion Collection Pack of 6 Asian Fusion Glass Ornaments Item #GG0407 Feature 3 designs (Bonsai Tree, Cherry Blossom, and Dragon) within an octagonal bamboo border Fully dimensional ornaments Dimensions: 3 H Material(s): glass Pack of 6 includes – (2) of each style shown

 Pyramid Bamboo - 2 Layer


Pyramid Bamboo – 2 Layer


$49.99


A pyramid of bamboo greenery is a powerful symbol of good luck and good fortune–and makes a lovely idea for a gift. Two stands of interior and exterior circles of live bamboo stalks create a calming natural landscape indoors. And since it’s well known that indoor plants foster good health by cleaning impurities from the air and enhancing mood, our bright-green leafy bamboo will bring a sense of balance and harmony to any interior space. 21 separate stalks of live bamboo create a tiered leafy planter, perfect as a centerpiece or ornamental Paired with an black ceramic container, filled with light-color decorator rocks Pyramid Bamboo will flourish indoors in low-light locations; best conditions are those with bright, filtered sunlight; avoid direct sun Easy-care plant thrives in warm spots of the home or office Measures 12″H x 3″W

 Pyramid Bamboo - 2 Layer - Pyramid Bamboo


Pyramid Bamboo – 2 Layer – Pyramid Bamboo


$49.99


A pyramid of bamboo greenery is a powerful symbol of good luck and good fortune–and makes a lovely idea for a gift. Two stands of interior and exterior circles of live bamboo stalks create a calming natural landscape indoors. And since it’s well known that indoor plants foster good health by cleaning impurities from the air and enhancing mood, our bright-green leafy bamboo will bring a sense of balance and harmony to any interior space. 21 separate stalks of live bamboo create a tiered leafy planter, perfect as a centerpiece or ornamental Paired with an black ceramic container, filled with light-color decorator rocks Pyramid Bamboo will flourish indoors in low-light locations; best conditions are those with bright, filtered sunlight; avoid direct sun Easy-care plant thrives in warm spots of the home or office Measures 12″H x 3″W

 Simple Fountains: 20 Step-by-Step Projects for Indoors and Out


Simple Fountains: 20 Step-by-Step Projects for Indoors and Out


$16.95


What’s more soothing than the sound of moving water? Redirecting a stream to run through your home or office may not be practical, but tiny, reliable electric pumps make it possible for you to create a small, indoor tabletop fountain; install a spouting sculpture in your backyard; or even build a full-size waterfall on your property.This new paperback edition of Simple Fountains gives you illustrated, precise, easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for building 20 aesthetically interesting waterworks at a fraction of the cost you’d pay for those found in upscale catalogs. Using readily available materials (Adkins even includes hints for finding suitable recyclable materials) and simple crafting techniques, you will learn to custom-design your own water-filled masterpiece.In this beautifully designed, inspiring book, Adkins reviews the types of materials you can use for your fountain, including wood, bamboo, ceramic, stone, and copper. She discusses accessories such as flowers, shells, bonsai trees, sculpture, and fish. And she recommends specific products that will make you happier with the finished product (small magnet-driven fountain pumps, for example, tend to be the quietest on the market). Even if you consider yourself non-crafty, Adkins’s can-do attitude will give you the confidence to build a beautiful fountain for any corner of your office, home, or garden.

 Too Late for the Festival: An American Salary Woman in Japan


Too Late for the Festival: An American Salary Woman in Japan


$3.08


In 1985 and 1986, the residents of a Tokyo suburb were treated to a singular sight. Just before ten every weekday morning, a pale-faced, wild-haired foreigner came scurrying out of her apartment, tucked her full skirt between her legs, mounted a bicycle and pedaled off furiously, heading east. At around six-thirty, her neighbors saw her again, pedaling home with her bicycle basket full of Haagen-Daz ice cream and Shredded Wheat.Rhiannon Paine, 37, was working as a technical writer for Hewlett-Packard in Silicon Valley; she agreed reluctantly to transfer to their Tokyo branch. She had no idea what she was in for, and neither did her Japanese colleagues. While they coped with her social gaffes, like arriving late to work and blowing her nose in public, Paine struggled with Japanese food — deviant sea-creatures on rice — and with the Japanese language, which kept tripping her up with new verb tenses ( the conditional, the volitional, the passive, the causative, the potential ).Paine writes with wonderful humor about the good times — spending an evening with a Shinto priest, drinking sake out of a bamboo pole and trying to make herself presentable on the beach with a package of inadequate Japanese nipplecovers. She collects weird English slogans printed on Japanese products (from a packet of instant coffee: Ease Your Bosoms).But she is also honest about her loneliness and sense of dislocation. A slim 5’4, Paine towers over most of her Japanese colleagues. She unconsciously contracts her back muscles trying to make herself smaller, and develops back pain for the first time in her life, a condition she calls being bonsai’d. Her in-depth contact with a radically differentculture raises questions she couldn’t begin to answer. If I hadn’t been born American, would I still be restless, ambitious, contrary-minded? Could the same raw material, worked upon by a different society, have produced a tea-making office lady or a contented housewife? This insight