A favorite among bonsai enthusiasts, the Ezo Spruce ( Picea jezoensis ) is prized for its fine needles and its ability to create "forest" style plantings that mimic the ancient woods of its homeland.
Historically, (or Ezochi ) was the ancient name for the northern territories of Japan, primarily the island of Hokkaido. For the medieval Japanese, it was a mysterious "other" land. A favorite among bonsai enthusiasts, the Ezo Spruce
Before it was Hokkaido, Ezo was the domain of the Satsumon culture, which evolved into the Ainu people . They lived in deep harmony with the rugged landscape, viewing the natural world as inhabited by kamuy (spirits). Before it was Hokkaido, Ezo was the domain
While the Wajin (mainland Japanese) were building shogunate systems in the south, a different history was unfolding in the north. It wasn't until the Meiji Restoration in the 19th century that "Ezo" was officially renamed Hokkaido and fully integrated into the Japanese state. 2. The Wild Spirit: Flora and Fauna of the North It wasn't until the Meiji Restoration in the
A tiny, energetic subspecies of the Siberian chipmunk found on Hokkaido. They are known for emerging from hibernation in early spring to forage for seeds.