Bamboo has about 1200 different species, of which more than 600 grow in Japan. Bamboo was one of the first materials used and processed by humans and therefore closely related to the development of civilization, as it resulted in them being able to produce better shelters and tools to survive. Due to this early adaptation, over time many different art styles were developed with bamboo. 

Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants, sometimes growing up to 120 centimeters a day and reaching maturity within two to three months. It is hard and resilient, can be split finely and clean, and bamboo shoot can typically live for 20 years. Bamboo trees itself, depending on the species will live for anywhere between 3 and 120 years old.  

Rather than just appreciation for its practical features, bamboo itself became a symbol representing versatility in many different art forms. Together with Pine and Plum trees it formed the ‘Three Friends of Winter’, representing steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience in Chinese and Japanese Confucius artworks. Furthermore, in Japanese artworks, bamboo is often portrayed in rain or snow, to symbolize not just its flexibility and steadfastness, but also representing loyalty and being unbreakable.