As a passionate bonsai gardener, I have always admired the artistry and beauty of bonsai trees. These miniature masterpieces, meticulously shaped and cared for, bring a sense of tranquility and harmony to any space.
Imagine my delight when I discovered that Studio Ghibli has released bonsai fountains inspired by their beloved films “My Neighbour Totoro,” “Princess Mononoke,” and “Spirited Away.”
These enchanting bonsai water fountains not only add a touch of magic to your home but also celebrate the art form that is bonsai.
Studio Ghibli’s attention to detail and commitment to capturing the essence of their films shines through in these bonsai fountains. Like tending to a bonsai tree, these fountains require care and nurture.
They are battery-operated, but also offer the option for USB power, providing flexibility and convenience for bonsai enthusiasts.
With two settings to choose from, including a voice-activated mode that releases water for five minutes and a continuous flow option, these fountains bring the essence of the films to life.
One of the bonsai fountain designs pays homage to the iconic scene from “My Neighbour Totoro,” where Totoro appears at the bus stop alongside Mei, the young girl in her pale blue raincoat.
This design perfectly captures the gentle rain as water flows down from the tree, reminiscent of the magical atmosphere in the movie. It’s as if the bonsai tree itself has become a portal to the world of Totoro, inviting you to immerse yourself in the enchantment of the film.
The “Princess Mononoke” inspired fountains offer two captivating designs, each a testament to the harmony between nature and spirituality depicted in the film.
One design features the majestic forest spirit, Shishigami, standing on a body of water. Surrounding Shishigami are the endearing kodama spirits, some standing beside the tree, while others enjoy the trickle of water within a hollowed-out tree trunk.
It’s a scene that captures the interconnectedness of all living things and the serenity of the forest.
In the second “Princess Mononoke” design, Shishigami gazes skyward, its antlers transformed into the semi-translucent spikes of the Nightwalker. This design showcases the mystique of the film, evoking a sense of wonder and awe.
What sets this limited edition model apart is the glow-in-the-dark feature of the Kodama spirits, illuminating the beauty of the bonsai fountain even in the darkest of nights. It’s a testament to the power of nature and its ability to captivate our imaginations.
Lastly, the bonsai fountain inspired by “Spirited Away” captures the essence of the film’s enchanting world. It features the enigmatic character No Face pouring water into a Japanese soju, a symbolic representation of cleansing and renewal.
Overlooking No Face are Yubaba’s bird and Yubaba’s baby, Boh, further immersing you in the magic of the bathhouse. This design allows you to bring the captivating energy of “Spirited Away” into your home and create your own little oasis of serenity.
As a bonsai gardener myself, I understand the dedication and passion required to care for these living artworks. The Studio Ghibli bonsai fountains embody the spirit of bonsai, reminding us of the importance of nurturing and preserving nature’s beauty.
The Studio Ghibli bonsai fountains are available both online and in Japan’s Donguri Kyowakoku stores, making them accessible to fans worldwide. The price for these enchanting fountains is 17,600 yen, which is approximately $132.