Introduction
The Pacific bonsai museum is composed of a vast collection of trees gathered from Pacific Rim nations. Bonsai is a Japanese art in which small trees are cultivated to take on the form of mature and fully formed trees. These small trees are produced in containers and are made to resemble fully formed trees in size and scale. It is an old Japanese tradition and dates back to over a thousand years ago. Once created, the bonsai are displayed in a way that bests shows the beauty of the bonsai. They also come with companion objects like scrolls, mountain stones, smaller floral plant, and a small statue, which is often an animal or other natural elements. Usually, the bonsai and its companion objects are arranged in a triangular form in a way that shows its dimension, and best make it look natural. Selecting a pot for the bonsai depends greatly on the bonsais, and the depth should be about the size of the bonsai itself.
History
The Pacific Bonsai museum was opened in 1989 as a result of a cooperation between Weyerhaeuser company and the Washington State Centennial Celebration. It was designed by Hoshide Wanzer Architects & The Berger Partnership, it was established as a unique way of showing the company’s commitment to the customers and forest resources. The collection was then given as a gift to a nonprofit organization, The George Weyerhaeuser Pacific Bonsai Collection, known as the Pacific Bonsai Museum. The collection is made of over 100 bonsai trees from China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and America.
Activities
The fall foliage festival is held annually in October. It is a week-long festival, and entry is completely free. Tours are held that showcase the incredible colors that truly represent the fall season; incredible displays of gold, red, and orange cover the trees. Contests and pre-carved pumpkins are also usually available and on display. The pre-carved pumpkin contest is open to the general public, and prizes are awarded to the winners. There are works of art, drawings, and display of locally made crafts by local artists all around. Friends and families also get to enjoy taking pictures together at the fall themed photo station, enjoy deliciously baked fall-themed pastries. They also get to participate in a fall themed art creation activities. People are taught on the care of bonsai and view the different tools used. Throughout the festival, there is a food drive to benefit the needy. Here, members of the community are asked to bring nonperishable food to support those in need.
Looking for more things to do in Federal Way? Check out Wild Waves Theme and Water Park
