Creating Old Gardening Practices - Japanese Gardens

People from the Western cultures have an admiration for Japans traditional gardens

. Japanese gardens are famous for their peaceful surroundings along with their remarkable minimalistic designs. They are not only representations of the rich tradition and immense regard for nature; they also highlight the numerous outside influences present in the Japanese culture from religion to social.

Japan is notably the land of the rising sunshine and this abundance of sunlight is evident in the lush surroundings present in Japans gardens. To the Japanese people gardens are integral to their spiritual and physical nourishments. There are three categories in traditional Japanese gardens: Tsukiyama or hill gardens. Ponds, fountains, or custom waterfalls, hills, rocks, trees, flowers and footbridges are the typical adornments in a Tsukiyama garden. The inspiration for this type of garden is from the natural sceneries seen in Japans rich landscapes. The next garden type is the Karesansui, its surrounding is used mainly for meditation; the design uses gemstones, tiny rocks, sand, and moss to depict mountains and islands. Zen Buddhism is the major inspiration for this style. Chaniwa garden is where the traditional tea ceremony takes place. A simple teahouse is the identifying landmark for this style of Japanese garden. A common theme in all Japanese traditional gardens is the attention to detail.

The affinity for gardens amongst the Japanese people began to take shape around 592 AD during the reign of Empress Suiko. However, many historians and scholars believe that this fondness for gardens started earlier than 592 AD.

The first important development in the history of Japanese gardens occurred during the Nara period (646-794 AD). Japan began trading with neighboring China and this economic partnership is largely responsible for many changes in how the Japanese designed their gardens. Traditional beliefs in addition to Japans cultural practices are important elements in the design of the gardens. Many express ancient philosophies and practices revered in the Japanese people culture. For example, rocks are representation of islands, hills, and mountains and stones depict strength and endurance along with other human emotions. Trees, shrubs, as well as foliage are miniature versions of forests. Japanese gardens are famous for their simplicity. Fountains or custom waterfalls represent purity and serenity. For the Japanese, bridges are symbolic of the many journeys a person takes in life. Pathways and stairways are also important structures. Bamboo trees serve as dividers separating the garden from its neighboring places and structures.

Carl writes numerous articles about home and garden designs, she also writes on topics about design including custom waterfalls.

by: CarlSimpson

POST COMMENT

Techniques for Successful organic gardening Techniques and benefits of Portable gardens Try Garden Shed Plans And Make It Fun What Is The Right Garden Mulch For You? When Your Landscape Supplies Edging For The Garden Right Garden Tools For You Have A Waterfall In Your Perfect Looking Garden Storage Ideas For Garden Sheds The Peaceful Mei Garden TD Garden – A Place Where Legends Are Born Non Hybrid Seeds Allow You To Grow Sustainable Gardens Asian Garden Martinsburg WV Hybrid Seeds Reproduce But Are Not Ideal For Sustainable Gardens