Japanese Gardens or Kanji are the best examples of the famed Japanese Minimalist design principles.
The aesthetically pleasing
gardens in Japan , illustrate how less can be more and how beauty can be achieved with simple objects. Designed as a place to soothe and calm the senses, most
Japanese gardens are built around the theme of water. Ponds containing gold fish or ornamental carp are common features of most
Gardens in Japan . There are also miniature waterfalls to direct positive energy into the surroundings. Many
Japanese Gardens feature carefully nurtured bonsais or beautifully trimmed topiary. Low lying colorful shrubbery and mosses are also a feature of
gardens in Japan . These trace the changing seasons with changes in color and characteristics.
Japanese Gardens sometimes also feature an island, often artificial in the shape of an elegant crane or a turtle, to enhance the spiritual aspect of the garden. The islands are connected to the main garden through elegant bridges made of wood or stone. The
gardens in Japan also feature winding stone paths and shady arbors. There are carefully placed benches, lanterns, lamps and rocks. Often a wooden gazebo or tea house is built in a centralized location so that the garden's aesthetic beauty can be enjoyed. Later
Japanese Zen Gardens , designed in the Dry Landscape or Karesansui style usually excludes the water feature but replicate the eddies and swirls on carefully placed colored pebbles, sand and rocks.
Some famous Gardens in Japan-
- The Korakuen Garden in Okayama
- The Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa
- The Ryoan-ji Temple Garden in Kyoto
- The Garden of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto
- The Gardens of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo
