Japanese GardensJapanese Gardens

By Pauline Cronin

History and Significance

o Throughout many dynasties, Japanese Gardens have changed because new beliefs and ideas were beginning to create impact on the people in Japan.

o As time has gone on, gardens have become significant for religious and social reasons. Most traditional gardens possess a design that deals with the Chinese principles of feng shui. These Principals involve paying close attention to directional symbolism and the placing of essential elements. An example of this might be that rocks are sometimes arranged in a certain order, and water has to flow a special way. The natural beauty can also attract many people for social and religious purposes.

ExamplesJapanese gardens should include: (1) The garden should wrap around the physical features of the site, including the natural flow of water. (2) Elements of a garden can simulate famous scenic spots, and they also reflect the calm poetry of the Heian Period. (3) Gardens should include the Chinese principles of feng shui, playing close attention to directional symbolism and the placing of elements.(4) Gardens should show the spirit of nature. There are also many references to the types of islands, waterfalls, and rock arrangements .

Plant Life

Trees and plants are said to give these gardens unique characteristics.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls symbolize human existence; life, birth, and death.

Bridges

Bridges are used to promote spiritual and ornamental needs.

ZiG ZaG BrIdGe

This eight-fold- Zigzag bridge used to symbolize the small little things that can be overlooked in life.

This eight-fold- Zigzag bridge used to symbolize the small little things that can be overlooked in life.

Japanese Stone Lanterns

Japanese stone lanterns promote spirituality and tradition

Sources:

“Japanese Gardens” – Explore Japan

http://www.explorejapan.com/jgardens.html

“Japanese Gardens” – Bowdoin College

http://learn.bowdoin.edu/japanesegardens/index.html

“Japanese Gardens” – Oregon Tourism

http://www.oregon.com/images/travel/jgarden400.jpg