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Three world-renowned masters are reshaping the future of the University of Bonsai
The University of Bonsai, founded in 1991 by Luigi Crespi and based in Parabiago at Crespi Bonsai, is a unique international centre of excellence for the teaching of this art. The study programmes, which have always been led by a Japanese lecturer, are structured to cater for both enthusiasts and future professionals in the sector. After years of extraordinary dedication, Master Nobuyuki Kajiwara is stepping down from his role as head of teaching at the University of Bonsai, with Master Naoki Maeoka set to take over from 2027. The team of new lecturers will be completed in 2028 with the arrival of Masters Hiroki Miura and Masayuki Fujikawa.
In 2027, Master Naoki Maeoka will teach the Level 1 course, whilst Nobuyuki Kajiwara will continue to teach the Level 2 and Level 3 courses.
Three highly charismatic and renowned figures will thus carry on the school’s educational legacy. This generational change will ensure the continuation of the school’s exceptionally high academic standards, blending the historical tradition passed down by Kajiwara with the most modern and innovative techniques of today’s Japanese schools.
Nobuyuki Kajiwara, who has led the school for over 35 years
After more than 35 years of uninterrupted leadership, the renowned master Nobuyuki Kajiwara is entrusting the chair and the educational continuity of the University of Bonsai to three leading professionals from the Japanese bonsai scene. From 2027, Master Maeoka will take charge of the Level 1 course, whilst Master Kajiwara will continue to oversee the Level 2 and Level 3 courses. In 2028, Masters Miura and Fujikawa will join the team.
Naoki Maeoka, new lecturer at the University of Bonsai from 2027
Born in 1972, after graduating in Design from Osaka University of Arts, he worked as a Creative Director and Graphic Designer, overseeing the design of signage for Kansai International Airport and the development of promotional and co-branding projects in the film, sport and transport sectors. After more than ten years spent nurturing his passion for bonsai, in 2009 he began an apprenticeship at the renowned Fujikawa Kouka-en nursery in Osaka, where he honed his skills; subsequently, in 2019, he set up his own independent business, which he continues to run today. He has taken part in numerous bonsai events in over ten European countries, as well as in the United States and Australia, where he has held demonstrations, courses and workshops. He also creates pots using the traditional Japanese ceramic-making techniques of ‘horinuki’ (hollowing-out) and ‘tatara-zukuri’ (slab-forming).
His approach to bonsai is based on respect for the natural growth cycle of each tree and on bringing out the unique character of each specimen, with the aim of guiding its development in a natural and balanced way.
Miura and Fujikawa to lead the University of Bonsai from 2028
From 2028, masters Hiroki Miura and Masayuki Fujikawa will officially join the University of Bonsai as lecturers, working alongside master Naoki Maeoka in teaching.
