Introduction to Ikebana - July
2025-07-08 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in the Workshop
In this workshop, instructor Nana Bellerud covers the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Participants will practice a basic style arrangement within the rules of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects, instructor Nana Bellerud will show you how ikebana explores artistic concepts such as balance, contrast, and negative space.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $25
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $25 includes both. Only cash or check.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai-July-Thurs
2025-07-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
The project for July is Kusamono.
You will make a Kusamono, learn why and when they are used, and the careful maintenance. Kusamono are traditionally used next to bonsai to complement the bonsai and enhance the display, with the suggestion of a season.
The Art of Bonsai embodies the Japanese spirit with philosophy and aesthetics harmonizing and complimenting each other. Bonsai is more than just an art form – it is a way of life and thinking; a way of cultivating patience, nobility, and sympathy – and this is the reason why bonsai is important for Japanese culture. Therefore, to understand bonsai, you must learn and understand each of its core values ​​in order to experience it with a calm and open mind.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. Each month will be a different project in creating your own bonsai. The cost includes all materials.
Please bring your own pruners or snippers.
Cost: $45 per class
2025 Date: Thursday July 17, 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - July-Saturday
2025-07-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
The project for July is Kusamono.
You will make a Kusamono, learn why and when they are used, and the careful maintenance. Kusamono are traditionally used next to bonsai to complement the bonsai and enhance the display, with the suggestion of a season.
The Art of Bonsai embodies the Japanese spirit with philosophy and aesthetics harmonizing and complimenting each other. Bonsai is more than just an art form – it is a way of life and thinking; a way of cultivating patience, nobility, and sympathy – and this is the reason why bonsai is important for Japanese culture. Therefore, to understand bonsai, you must learn and understand each of its core values ​​in order to experience it with a calm and open mind.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. Each month will be a different project in creating your own bonsai. The $45.00 cost includes all materials. Please bring your own pruners or snippers.
Cost: $45 per class
2025 Dates: Third Saturday of the month.
Time: Saturday: 1pm – 3pm,
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

Bonsai: Open Kobo
2025-08-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Open Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 10 AM and 2 PM, in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Open Kobo will end at 2pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

Introduction to Ikebana - August
2025-08-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in the Workshop
In this workshop, instructor Nana Bellerud covers the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Participants will practice a basic style arrangement within the rules of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects, instructor Nana Bellerud will show you how ikebana explores artistic concepts such as balance, contrast, and negative space. This workshop will focus primarily on the concept of negative space using summer-blooming flowers.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - August-Saturday
2025-08-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
August class is: Grafting demonstration on juniper. Each student will go home with a small juniper on rocks, and learn how to care for it.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. The project for August has not been decided yet. The $45.00 cost includes all materials. Please bring your bonsai tools.
Cost: $45.00
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

2025 The Art of Bonsai-August-Thurs
2025-08-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
August class is: Grafting demonstration on juniper. Each student will go home with a small juniper on rocks, and learn how to care for it.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. This month’s project has not been decided yet, but rest assured you will learn a new technique AND take a bonsai home with you with care instructions. Cost includes all materials. Please bring your bonsai tools.
Cost: $45 per
2025 Date: Thursday August 21, 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

Bonsai: Styling Kobo - Sept
2025-09-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
September’s Styling Kobo will be a Tsuga mertensiana, also known as mountain hemlock. The mountain hemlock Bobby Curttright is using for his styling demonstration was collected from the Mt Hood area over 30 years ago! The collector is unknown.

Hands on Pruning a Japanese Garden - Summer-25
2025-09-06 10:00 - 16:00 | Vanport International, 28590 Wally Road, Boring, OR, 97009, United States
For the intermediate pruners, a hands-on opportunity to prune a variety of plants at a Japanese garden in Boring, OR, learning alongside Francheska Snyder, a professional ornamental pruner. This workshop will focus on vine maples and upright Acer palmatums. You must be comfortable on tall ladders.
The Gresham Japanese Garden’s prune the Japanese garden at Vanport International three times a year. There are many shrubs and trees that need restored to their intended size and brought back to the vision of the original garden designer, Hoichi Kurisu.
This workshop is certified by the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board. Licensed landscape construction professionals receive five Continuing Education Hours (CEH).

Introduction to Ikebana - September
2025-09-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In this workshop, which happens to take place on Chrysanthemum Day, instructor Nana Bellerud will include discussions on chrysanthemum’s botanical, historical and cultural aspects. Then, you will create an ikebana using chrysanthemums and other plant materials. It will be a lot of fun.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai -Sept-Thursday
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop – Part 2
Hands-on Follow-Up Class
Location: Gresham Japanese Garden – Kyoudou Center
Materials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
This class you will check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if your first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available. You do not need to have taken Part 1 to participate. Air layers will be available.
🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)
What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ All specialty materials provided
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice

Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - Sept-Sat
2025-09-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop – Part 2
Hands-on Follow-Up ClassLocation: Gresham Japanese Garden – Kyoudou CenterMaterials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
This class you will check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if your first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available. You do not need to have taken Part 1 to participate. Air layers will be available.

🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)

What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ All specialty materials provided
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice

Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Introduction to Takegaki
2025-09-21 09:30 - 12:30 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Bamboo is a great fencing material because it is a renewable resource that is extremely hardy with excellent structural integrity. Bamboo fences add beauty and serenity to any landscape that withstand the test of time. The Gresham Japanese Garden is offering a bamboo fencing workshop with owner Mark Meenan with American Bamboo Company.
Mr. Meenan will focus on teaching the fundamentals of building traditional Japanese bamboo fences. This class reviews tools and materials as well as techniques including how to cut bamboo.
The Gresham Japanese Garden is undergoing a major renovation of their Japanese garden. A portion of this renovation is installing Yotsume-gaki fencing around the perimeter of Tsuru Island. The workshop is free to all students willing to give eight hours of their time on a date TBD volunteering to help make the Yotsume-gaki fencing. Send an email to info@greshamjapanesegarden.com to reserve your spot in the workshop. Non-student volunteers is $45, and registration is below.

All materials supplied. Participants will take home a Japanese pull saw and fencing spec book.

Enter to Win a Yamadori Mountain Hemlock
2025-09-25 - 2025-12-06 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Yamadori Mountain Hemlock

The tree has been in training for almost 15 years and is currently sitting without any wire. The refined oval pot is made by the retired and only apprentice to Yukizou Nakano, his son. Those pots known as Yuuji are all handmade and of the highest quality clay made in the Japanese potting village of Tokoname.
Only 500 tickets sold. Winner will be drawn live on Facebook Saturday, December 6th at 9:15am.
We will send via email an image of your ticket. Thank you! The proceeds from this raffle will help fund the renovation of Tsuru Island.

More About the Pot Origins

Nakano Yukizou, Yuuji’s dad is the founder, and only person of the Gyozan kiln since his son stopped making pots.
Most Gyozan pots are from Nakano, some of those are handmade. Some Gyozan pots are Yuuji, all of his are handmade. Gyozan pots that are made today are made with a mold. They are still made by Nakano, just done so with a uniform shape.
Handmade pots typically have a signature in addition to the chop, but since all of Yuuji’s are handmade, none have an additional signature. There are also seven or more different Gyozan chops, but only one Yuuji.

Purchase with Venmo

Please use the QR Code supplied here, or if you’d like to pay by credit card add the # of tickets in the field below.

Bonsai: Group Kobo
2025-10-03 16:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Group Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 4PM and 8PM, in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Group Kobo will end at 2pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

Introduction to Ikebana - October
2025-10-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s October class, you will focus on color combinations, in particular, autumn colors. It will be fun to see different color combinations give different impressions. We will be using the “ordinary” plant materials that are in bloom to create an extraordinary piece of art. Please join us!
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Thurs
2025-10-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Basic Wiring
Overview
This class will focus on basic wiring of bonsai.Wiring a bonsai is an important design technique for shaping a bonsai. The growth and shape of the bonsai is influenced by the wire that is wrapped around the trunk and/or branches. The wired parts are bent in the desired direction. Once the form has solidified, the bonsai wire can be removed.
Slightly more detailed wiring a bonsai is, besides pruning, the most important design technique for forming a bonsai. When forming a bonsai, a normal tree is designed according to a given ideal. The goal is usually that young, not yet developed bonsai tree to look old and venerable.
All materials are provided. Please bring needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and your own bonsai tools if you have them.
NOTE: This bonsai workshop will be taking place in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s greenhouse behind the Kyoudou Center.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Sat
2025-10-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Basic Wiring
Overview
This class will focus on basic wiring of bonsai. Wiring a bonsai is an important design technique for shaping a bonsai. The growth and shape of the bonsai is influenced by the wire that is wrapped around the trunk and/or branches. The wired parts are bent in the desired direction. Once the form has solidified, the bonsai wire can be removed.
Slightly more detailed wiring a bonsai is, besides pruning, the most important design technique for forming a bonsai. When forming a bonsai, a normal tree is designed according to a given ideal. The goal is usually that young, not yet developed bonsai tree to look old and venerable.
All materials are provided. Please bring needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and your own bonsai tools if you have them.

NOTE: Due to a rental in the Kyoudou Center, this workshop is being held on the 4th Saturday of the month.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Pruning Lace-leaf Maple Trees
2025-11-01 10:00 - 13:00 | Gresham Japanese Garden
This is a hands-on workshop where students will receive pruning techniques, instructions, and personalized feedback as you prune two overgrown lace-leaf maple tree at the Gresham Japanese Garden’s complex.

Introduction to Ikebana - November
2025-11-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s November class, you will focus on fall flowers and accents still staying with autumn colors. It will be fun to see different color combinations give different impressions. We will be using the “ordinary” plant materials that are in bloom to create an extraordinary piece of art.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

Pruning Conifers for Health and Aesthetics Course
2025-11-15 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Pruning Conifers for Health and Aesthetics course will start on Tsuru Island, GJG’s Japanese garden nestled within Gresham’s Main City Park and home to a diverse collection of conifers including spruces, hinoki, firs, pines, and more.
Limited to 15 students, so register early to reserve your spot!
Workshop Overview
This in-person class is designed to deepen your understanding of conifer pruning through an aesthetic lens. Maryann will guide participants in:

Understanding conifer growth biology and seasonal rhythms
Applying pruning techniques to maintain plant health and desired size
Enhancing landscape aesthetics through thoughtful pruning
Recognizing and preserving the natural form of various conifer species

Whether you’re a home gardener or a landscape professional, this workshop offers valuable insights into the art and science of conifer pruning.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Nov-Sat
2025-11-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Saikei (最景)
Overview
This class will focus on saikei. Saikei is a Japanese art form that combines bonsai techniques with elements of landscape gardening to create a living landscape. You can introduce trees, rocks, and other natural materials to depict a natural scene, such as a forest, mountain, or coastal area. The goal is to evoke the feeling of a large natural landscape in a small, contained space.
All materials are provided. Please bring your own bonsai tools if you have them.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Structural Pruning Pines
2025-11-16 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Watch instructor, Laura Dufala unlock the hidden character of pine trees through strructural pine pruning. She’s captivating to watch her approach to cloud pruning, and through her artistic eyes make decisions regarding which branches to keep and which ones to remove. She has a tendency to turn the class into a hands-on practicum, so bring gloves and sanitized pruners.
The class will take place at the Gresham Japanese Garden. We will meet in front of the Mural garden/Barn.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Nov-Thurs
2025-11-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

Wreath Making Workshop & More: Dec 1st
2025-12-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Monday, Dec 1, 2025, 6-8pm
Get ready for the holidays by making a beautiful wreath to hang on your front door. The wreath can span as large as 26″. The Gresham Japanese Garden offers a wide range of unique conifers and evergreen shrubs to choose from to make your wreath, complete with a handmade bow to add as a final accent.
Cost includes the ring, wire, all greenery, berries, handmade bow to make a beautiful 22″ diameter wreath. And, enjoy a glass a wine or other beverage and little bite to eat while you’re making your wreath.
COST: $60
Class will be held in inside GJG’s Kyoudou Center at Main City Park.

Introduction to Ikebana - December
2025-12-02 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s December class, you will focus on the holidays, and some holiday ideas will be included in your arrangement. Still keeping the principles and core concepts of ikebana, she will share some material and design ideas for the holidays that participants can use.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

Wreath Making Workshop & More: Dec 7th
2025-12-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Sunday, Dec 7, 2025, 2-4pm
Get ready for the holidays by making a beautiful wreath to hang on your front door. The wreath can span as large as 26″. The Gresham Japanese Garden offers a wide range of unique conifers and evergreen shrubs to choose from to make your wreath, complete with a handmade bow to add as a final accent.
Cost includes the ring, wire, all greenery, berries, handmade bow to make a beautiful 22″ diameter wreath. And, enjoy a glass a wine or other beverage and little bite to eat while you’re making your wreath.
COST: $60
Class will be held in inside GJG’s Kyoudou Center at Main City Park.

Bonsai: Group Kobo
2025-12-14 13:00 - 16:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Group Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 1-4pm in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Group Kobo will end at 4pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Dec-Thurs
2025-12-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Bonsai Spruce
Overview
Nothing speaks to the holidays than a decorated spruce tree. This class will focus on spruces. Yes you can shape like a Christmas tree or take your art a different direction. Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will share insights on styling based on the spruce you choose for the workshop. Wiring will be an option as well.
Spruces requires full sun, consistent moisture, and proper drainage, but needs protection from harsh winters. You will learn about winter care, and spring care including when to prune and when to fertilize.
All materials except holiday decorations for your spruce are provided. Please bring your own pruners, snippers, needle nose pliers and gloves.
Gift certificates available here.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Dec-Sat
2025-12-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
