Japanese gardens reflect a rich culture of reverence towards the natural world and a deep connection to spiritual philosophy, where the garden acts as something to be understood, rather than existing merely to be “seen”. And when it comes to Japanese garden ideas, you could choose include a few elements in a custom way, or focus on a more traditional design.
With that in mind, here we go through some of the key features and details of Japanese gardens, as well as six of our favourite gardens that you can use for inspiration.
Different types of Japanese gardens
- Karesansui, or dry rock garden
- Chaniwa/Roji, or tea garden
- Chisen-shoyū-teien, or pond garden
- Kaiyushiki-teien, or stroll/promenade garden
Our favourite Japanese-inspired garden ideas
A potted Japanese maple placed on sleek gravel brings a sense of serenity to this elegant garden in Sydney’s North Shore.
In an ultra-modern residence defined by three types of granite and a subdued colour palette, spherically pruned greenery and delicate foliage bring this urban, Japanese-style courtyard a delightful sense of lightness and ease.
While this inner-city, Australian garden retains the architectural structure of a traditional backyard, elements like the Japanese wisteria give it a sense of subdued, otherworldly calm.
Elements of natural stone covered in soft moss are framed by a delicate crackle-glazed water bowl and lush green foliage in this Japanese-inspired garden in Longueville, Sydney.
This Japanese-influenced garden features a serene water feature along with an array of Japanese maple tree species and natural stone materials to a beautiful effect.
Located in Lennox Head, this tranquil garden incorporates elements of Japanese design like natural stone and traditionally preserved timber that is translated for a classic Australian backyard.
This Zen-like courtyard in Melbourne includes low, gentle plants and organic lines, along with neat gravel and a featured birdbath, which contrast with the angular lines of the home’s contemporary architecture.
Japanese gardens are a tranquil place for reflection and often engage the mind to connect with nature. (Photography: Peter Clark| Story: Belle)
What are the main features of Japanese gardens?
The main features of a Japanese garden include asymmetry to mimic the natural curves — and lack of strict geometry — in nature, as well as symbolism, where a simple rock could represent a towering hill or mountain, while raked gravel could emulate the mesmerising curvature of an ocean wave. A mindful connection to nature is key.
The inevitable waxing and waning of seasons also brings out a different kind of beauty to that of others; instead, it’s one that is built and celebrated for its impermanence.
Ageing, damage, and distortion are considered markers of love and the passage of time, embracing the natural cycle of birth, growth, death and decay. Objects are preserved in their natural state, and much of Japanese garden design revolves around this worldview, also known as Wabi-sabi.
Serenity and balance are achieved through the use of natural materials like stones, water and of course, plants, with their positioning in the garden often mirroring their natural places of habitat.
What are the essential elements of a Japanese garden?
- Stone: A symbol of eternity and longevity that grounds the landscape and represents the rolling hills and mountains of Japan, stone is arguably the most ubiquitous material used in Japanese gardens.
- Water: A fundamental element of the Earth, water symbolises renewal, tranquillity and repose and is most often represented in Japanese gardens as a pond or waterfall.
- Plants: While it depends on the style of Japanese garden, common plants used are moss, ornamental pines, bonsai plants, and bamboo for a lush, shady effect. For a splash of autumnal colour, consider Japanese maples or gingko trees.
- Ornaments: Bridges, seated areas and stepping stones are some of the common elements in Japanese gardens that evoke transience and reflection.
How can I design a Japanese garden in an Australian backyard?
“Instead of replicating, we prefer to borrow principles and ideas used in traditional Japanese gardens and apply these to our small space and courtyard designs. Ultimately, it’s about creating a visually beautiful, inviting space that draws you out and into the garden,” says Luke Baldwin, landscape architect & founder of Formed Gardens.
“We’ll use elements like ponds or water features for the atmosphere. Timber and stone benches and steps to sit and reflect within the garden, and small trees to provide scale and shelter. These basic ideas really translate to any style and make for an inviting and successful small garden or courtyard.”
According to the landscape designer, one major challenge for Japanese plants can be hot, dry Australian summers, in which case native species are generally substituted for ones that may look different but still have similar scale and form.
