Japanese Gardens

Photos of Japanese gardens I’ve visited in Japan and Germany. Click on images to enlarge them.

Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto

Ginkaku-ji’s garden was created in the late 15th century and represents the pinnacle of wabi-sabi aesthetics with its famous raked white sand. The walking paths reveal different perspectives of the temple.

Tenryu-ji, Kyoto

Tenryu-ji’s garden, designed by monk Muso Soseki in 1339, is one of Japan’s oldest surviving Zen gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It pioneered the use of borrowed scenery, integrating the Arashiyama mountains into the garden’s composition.

Hakusasonso Hashimoto Kansetsu Museum, Kyoto

Created in the 1910s by painter Hashimoto Kansetsu, this villa garden was designed to inspire artistic work. The three-story pagoda and seasonal displays provided a contemplative setting for cultural gatherings. My visit in 2024 was a serene experience and a welcome break from the tourist crowds at other places.

Koko-en, Himeji

Built in 1992 on former samurai residence foundations, Koko-en consists of nine themed gardens demonstrating different classical styles. It is like walking through a textbook of perfect examples of each style.

Hamarikyū Park, Tokyo

Originally a 17th-century feudal hunting ground, Hamarikyu features Japan’s only surviving tidal pond connected to Tokyo Bay. It features a mix of Edo-period tea houses and skyscraper views.

Kiyosumi Park, Tokyo

A park built in 1891 that has a collection of stones from all over Japan.

Blühendes Barock, Ludwigsburg

This garden is part of an 18th-century Baroque garden. It has a bonsai exhibition. The garden isn’t far from where I live and I enjoy spending time there as a break.

Rheinaue, Bonn

Created in 1979 as part of the Bundesgartenschau (National Garden Exhibition) as a gift from Japan to celebrate German-Japanese friendship.

Japanese Garden in Augsburg

Opened in 1985 to commemorate Augsburg’s partnership with Amagasaki, Japan.