A Tokonoma is a special niche or alcove in Japanese houses built in the traditional style, where art objects such as Bonsai, Suiseki, Ikebana, scrolls, sculptures are displayed.

There are sophisticated guidelines as to how such a display is arranged, and the display will often reflect the changing seasons.  The guest of a Japanese family normally sits in front of the Tokonoma, so that they he can enjoy the display of “art objects" especially prepared for them.