Japanese gardens are loved by many people as a space where they can feel the beauty of traditional Japanese culture close at hand. Among them, tsuboniwa gardens, which take advantage of limited space, and karesansui (dry landscape garden), in which the scenery is expressed with stones and sand, have a unique atmosphere and calm the mind. In this issue, we will introduce the charm and key points of such “small Japanese gardens.
Small but Enjoyable Japanese Gardens
Although people tend to think of Japanese gardens as requiring a large plot of land, in fact, even a small space is sufficient to express the charm of a Japanese garden. Especially in recent years, more and more people are incorporating a “Japanese atmosphere” into small spaces, even in urban homes and condominiums.
- You can feel the changing of the four seasons.
By incorporating maple trees, satsuki (Japanese azalea), moss, and other plants, you can enjoy seasonal changes. Even in a limited space, the natural beauty of the four seasons can be enjoyed, which is the charm of a Japanese garden. - Visual healing
Just looking at the elements of a Japanese garden, such as the flow of water and the masonry, is a strangely calming experience. They are perfect as a “healing place” where you can forget about your busy daily life and spend time relaxing.
A “small Japanese space” created by a tsuboniwa garden
Tsuboniwa refers to a garden created in a very limited space, such as between buildings or in a courtyard. They are often designed so that they can be viewed from indoors, and can be easily enjoyed even on small lots.
- Point 1: Simplicity
Tsuboniwa gardens are mainly for viewing. Rather than creating a large landscape, a combination of simple materials such as stones, moss, and plants creates a calm atmosphere. - Point 2: Lighting
The tsuboniwa will look much richer when lit up at night or when andon (paper lanterns) are installed. The moment when the darkness outside the window is suddenly transformed into a sophisticated atmosphere by Japanese-style lighting is a must-see. - Point 3: Be aware of the point of view
When stones and plants are placed according to the angle from which the garden is viewed, such as indoors or at the entrance, a beautiful view is created, just like a picture. As the term “frame garden” suggests, another way to enjoy tsuboniwa gardens is to use the window frame as a picture frame.
Minimalist landscape expressed in Karesansui
Karesansui, a type of Japanese garden, is a garden style that uses stones and white sand to represent mountains, rivers, and the sea without using water. It is often seen in temples and other places, but it is easy to incorporate even in small spaces.
- Expanding world view with white sand
Karesansui is characterized by a pattern called a sand pattern. Rake-like ripple lines are drawn on the white sand to represent flowing water or a large ocean. The advantage of this technique is that it can create the illusion of depth even in a small space. - Masonry to represent mountains and islands
Stones of various sizes can be arranged to create the image of a mountain, island, or shore. Depending on the design, ripples made of sand surround the island, creating a tranquil landscape. - Combination with moss and flowers
At first glance, karesansui appears to be a simple composition of only sand and stones, but moss and flowers can be partially incorporated to create a softer impression. This is recommended when you want to add color to a minimalist composition.
Summary: Japanese spirit enjoyed in a small space
Even in a limited space, an attractive Japanese garden can be created through creative ideas such as tsuboniwa gardens and karesansui (dry landscape garden). Even if the garden is only a few meters square, a “small Japanese space” can be created by carefully designing the placement of stones, selection of plants, and lighting.
Having a place to take a breather in your busy daily life will enrich your mind and soul. We hope you will enjoy creating a Japanese garden, even in a small space. Your own “small Japanese garden” will bring color and healing to your daily life.
