Japanese gardens are serene spaces that encapsulate the beauty of nature, offering a soothing and immersive experience. Rooted in Japanese aesthetics and Buddhist philosophy, these gardens have evolved over the centuries into various styles, each with its unique charm.
I want to visit a Japanese garden, but what makes them special?
Where can I experience the best of Japanese gardens?
If you have these questions, this guide will introduce you to the essential features, how to enjoy them, and the best Japanese gardens to visit!
Additionally, the game Nioh 2 features stunning Japanese gardens, bringing their beauty into the virtual world. Let’s explore the deep and fascinating world of Japanese gardens together!
Key Features & Four Essential Elements of Japanese Gardens
What Makes Japanese Gardens Unique?
Japanese gardens are not just beautiful landscapes; they are artistic representations of nature, deeply influenced by Buddhism and traditional Japanese culture. They emphasize harmony with nature and use creative techniques to depict vast landscapes within limited spaces.
There are three main styles of Japanese gardens:
 Chisen-teien (Pond Garden) | A garden with water features such as ponds and streams, designed for scenic enjoyment. |
 Karesansui (Dry Landscape) | A garden that represents mountains and rivers, using stones and sand instead of water. |
 Chatei / Roji (Tea Garden) | A garden leading to a tea house, embodying the spirit of the tea ceremony. |
The Four Essential Elements of Japanese Gardens
The beauty of Japanese gardens is created by the harmonious combination of four key elements!
Let’s check each element!
 Water | Represents the source of life and has a purifying role. |
 Stones | Considered sacred and used as symbolic elements in the garden. |
 Plants | Often features pine trees, symbolizing eternity and stability. |
 Ornaments | Includes stone lanterns, stepping stones, and bamboo fences to enhance the aesthetic. |
Three Major Styles & Recommended Japanese Gardens
Each prefecture has popular Japanese Gardens,
but Kyoto has many of them!
Then let’s check some Japanese Gardens in Kyoto!
Chisen-teien (Pond garden)
Pond gardens emphasize the beauty of water and were favored by nobles during the Heian period and feudal lords in the Edo period.
Recommended Pond Gardens:
Katsura Imperial Villa (Kyoto) | A masterpiece of Japanese garden design. |
 Saihoji (Moss Temple) (Kyoto) | A mystical garden covered in lush moss. |
Karesansui (Dry Landscape)
Dry landscape gardens use rocks and sand to create a minimalist yet profound expression of nature, often found in Zen temples.
Recommended Dry Landscape Gardens:
 Ryoanji Temple (Kyoto) | A world-famous Zen rock garden. |
Daitokuji Zuiho-in (Kyoto) | A garden that embodies Zen philosophy. |
Chatei / Roji (Tea Garden)
Tea gardens create a tranquil atmosphere leading to a tea house, enhancing the tea ceremony experience.
Recommended Tea Gardens:
Kodaiji Temple (Kyoto) | Associated with Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. |
| Keishunin Temple (Kyoto) | A peaceful garden perfect for quiet contemplation. |
Top 5 Must-Visit Japanese Gardens
Japan is home to countless breathtaking gardens, but here are five must-visit locations:
 Adachi Museum of Art (Shimane) | Recognized as Japan’s most beautiful garden. |
 Kenrokuen (Ishikawa) | One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. |
 Nijo Castle (Kyoto) | A historic garden with cultural significance. |
 Hama-rikyu Gardens (Tokyo) | A tranquil oasis in the city. |
 Ritsurin Garden (Kagawa) | A perfect blend of silence and beauty. |
Plus, Shoboji temple in Kyoto is my recommendation!
If you are wondering how Shoboji looks like is the first picture at the top in the beggining of this article.
My favorite is Kenrokuen.
I went there with my parents and my grandparents.
Enhance Your Experience: Stay at a Temple Lodge (Shukubo)
For a deeper appreciation of Japanese gardens, consider staying at a shukubo (temple lodge). These accommodations offer an immersive experience where you can meditate, relax, and enjoy a garden’s tranquility.
If you want to know about Shukubo more, please read the article below, too.
Japanese Gardens in Nioh 2
The action RPG Nioh 2 features beautifully designed Japanese gardens, including stunning dry landscapes. The serene yet mysterious atmosphere in the game mirrors the real-life beauty of these gardens. Comparing the in-game landscapes with real-world gardens can be a fun way to deepen your appreciation of Japanese garden aesthetics.
Conclusion : Visit Japanese Garden
Did you find a Japanese Garden you want to visit?
I really want to visit Hama Rikyu in Tokyo!
My mother and I wanted to go there when we were staying in Tokyo,
but we didn’t have enough time.
Japanese gardens are artistic expressions of nature that embody Japan’s culture and spiritual philosophy.
- Distinct Features: Harmony with nature and Buddhist influences.
- Three Major Styles: Pond gardens, dry landscapes, and tea gardens.
- Four Essential Elements: Water, stones, plants, and ornaments.
- Top 5 Recommended Gardens: A curated list of must-visit locations.
- Stay at a Temple Lodge: Experience garden tranquility through temple accommodations.
- Nioh 2’s Japanese Gardens: Explore virtual versions of these serene landscapes.
If you have the chance, visit a Japanese garden and immerse yourself in its timeless beauty!
If you are interested in Japanese culture, you may love these games!
Let’s play!
Yes! Let’s play!
Comments