On request I here show how the Tokonoma in my bonsai garden was established. It was built during the summer 2016.

I did not do a sketch first, so no drawings and precise measures are available. The inner space is a bit larger than a tatami mat, 190 X 80 cm (75 X 31 inch.) The area in my Tokonoma covers approximately 200 X 90cm (79 X 35 inch). I am considering adding another small display area  at the side, having a space for a simple display of a grass, Suiseki or a single tree.

The height of the table area is 70 cm (27,5 inch.). Poles are set in concrete, so they are not having any soil contact. They are treated with an outdoor preserving paint first. The main pole with movement is from a garden tree (Beech).

The roof is made of wooden planks overlapping. Back and side wall is wooden boards painted with several layers of protecting outdoor painting so it will last and withstand the weather. The side wall has an open window cut out, decorated with bamboo.

All resembling the spirit and mood of an original indoor Tokonoma.

Tokonoma used all year

I use it most of the year, for both bonsai and simple Suiseki displays. Tokonomas do not have to follow any strict measures and comes in different sizes, depending on the room they are in.

An outdoor Tokonoma like this, is probably not seen before (as far as I know). But I wanted this to add the right atmosphere in my bonsai garden, without having a large building.

Below a gallery of pictures with the bonsai garden Tokonoma for inspiration.