How to Create a Japanese Garden

Japanese gardens have developed over many centuries and have been refined and shaped by religious and philosophical ideas, ranging from Shintoism, Hinduism and Taoism to Buddhism. The inspiration behind Japanese gardens is very different -- from the classical roots of Christianity and Islam that have shaped European garden traditions.The basic principle behind Japanese gardens is a quest for harmony. An important element is the idea of retaining the spirit of the place and appreciating the beauty of the natural rock.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Garden
• A plan

How to Create a Japanese Garden

1. Learn the principles behind the Japanese garden. Japanese gardens design principles included the idea that rocks should be respected for their own inner stillness, and that rocks, islands and ponds represented nature and should always be placed asymmetrically. Symmetrical elements represented humans.

2. Choose symbolic elements to add the garden. The depiction of a mountain is essential and refers to the Cosmic Mountain at the center of the universe. The Island of Immortality can be represented by an island or a rock. Rocks are arranged in groups of three. In old Japanese gardening books, this is explained as representing three forces -- horizontal, diagonal and vertical -- which correspond to the structure of the universe -- heaven, earth and mankind.

3. Define boundaries. Japanese gardens are always separated from the surrounding land. Bamboo can be used for boundary fencing and to divide various parts of the garden. It should be tall and solid enough to conceal distracting views when contemplating the stones. An attractive and appropriate way to fence off a Japanese-style garden is by using bamboo poles knotted together with rope. Stepping stones laid on gravel are deliberately spaced to slow you down and leave behind your daily cares.

4. Incorporate garden elements. Devices to ward off evil spirits should be placed everywhere. Trees and stones should be grouped in odd numbers -- threes, fives and sevens. In the Japanese garden, non-living features are paramount and plants are not the prime ingredients. One of the most important items is water -- the Japanese word for gardener means 'He who makes the bed of streams.' Stone, sand, gravel, bamboo, and aged trees are also important.

5. Keep your design simple and incorporate existing features. Every item is balanced by something else. Tall plants grow next to bushy ones. Sharp angles are balanced by gentle bends. Simplicity is the hallmark of a Japanese garden, as is retaining the spirit of the place. If there are old trees or rocks, try to retain them in your design.

Tips & Warnings

• Japanese gardens require contant care.