This is the first episode from our special series: Mario and Bartek in Japan, filmed in February 2026. On our very first day in Japan, we visited one of the most famous bonsai nurseries in the world — Shunka-en Bonsai Museum, created by master Kunio Kobayashi. For Mario, it was a beautiful opportunity to return to a place deeply connected with the highest level of Japanese bonsai culture. During the visit, Mario discussed several truly breathtaking trees, sharing his observations about their character, structure, age, details, and the incredible level of refinement visible in each composition. We also had the rare chance to have a short conversation with master Kunio Kobayashi himself — a very special moment and a wonderful beginning to our journey in Japan. This episode opens a new chapter in Mario’s Bonsai World: a journey through Japan, its nurseries, masters, trees, and the living culture of bonsai.