Page 16 - BCI Bonsai & Stone Appreciation Q1 2025

The Incredible BCI
Liuzhou Convention
A British Perspective on Bonsai, Stones,
and Cultural Wonders
By Tony Tickle, UK
After an 18-hour journey, I arrived in Guangzhou,
China, greeted by Spencer, one of the English-
speaking guides who would assist me throughout
the BCI convention. Guangzhou, a bustling metropolis
in southern China, served as the gateway for many
international delegates heading to Liuzhou. Meeting
fellow participants for the first time marked the start
of a fascinating journey.
Exploring Bonsai and Beyond
Our first day began with a visit to a massive koi
farm, followed by the Baowen Bonsai Garden. This
exceptional learning center not only highlighted the
beauty of bonsai but also the dedication to preserving
the art form. The garden was a fitting introduction to
the cultural depth we would encounter throughout
the event. That evening, we enjoyed the first of three
grand banquets that punctuated our six-day adventure.
The next day, we revisited the Baowen Bonsai Garden
before boarding a high-speed train to Liuzhou. The
journey itself was an experience, offering glimpses of
China’s vast and diverse landscapes. Upon arrival, the
BCI Annual General Meeting officially kicked off the
convention.
14 | BCI | January/February/March 2025