The Philosophy of Spatial Composition

Japanese gardens, with their rich history and philosophical underpinnings, stand as one of the most fascinating and refined forms of landscape art in the world. They are not merely places of tranquility and escape from daily routine, but also living works of art that convey stories, traditions, and spirituality of Japan for centuries. Through the delicate combination of natural elements such as stone, water, and vegetation, these gardens narrate the ceaseless relationship between man and nature, the quest for harmony and balance.

The history of Japanese gardens delves deep into the past, where the first gardens were inspired by Chinese patterns. Over time, Japanese gardeners and Zen monks began incorporating their unique elements and philosophies, creating spaces that not only pleased the eye but also served as places for meditation and contemplation. These gardens became a physical manifestation of Japanese aesthetic values such as wabi-sabi (finding beauty in imperfection) and mono no aware (awareness of the transience).

( if you are curious about those terms, we have written about them here - wabi sabi: [link] and about mono no aware here: [link] ).

Japanese gardens are not only a valuable part of Japan’s cultural heritage but also a source of inspiration for gardeners and designers worldwide. They serve as an example of how space can be designed to promote peace, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the natural world. In today’s article, we will take a closer look at the diversity of these gardens, their history, philosophy, and the remarkable impact they have on people visiting them both in Japan and abroad. For easier comprehension of the topics, we will divide Japanese gardens into six main types.

Diversity of Japanese Gardens

Japanese gardens, characterized by their extraordinary diversity and richness of forms, are meant to reflect the harmony between man and nature, which is the foundation of Japanese culture. Each type of garden, from the classic karesansui (dry Zen gardens) to lush chaniwa (tea gardens), has its unique aesthetics and purpose. The dry Zen garden, with its minimalist use of stones and gravel, focuses on simplicity and concentration, while tea gardens invite for a meditative walk, preparing the mind and soul for the tea ceremony.

These diverse spaces are not only places for rest and contemplation but also living works of art that communicate important philosophical and religious messages. In strolling gardens (kaiyū-shiki-teien), with their complex paths and carefully planned views, visitors are encouraged to explore and reflect on the changing landscape, symbolizing the perpetual journey of life. Meanwhile, in tsubo-niwa, small inner gardens, we find an oasis of peace in crowded urban landscapes, highlighting the possibility of coexistence between nature and urban space.

The significance of these gardens in Japanese culture goes beyond their physical boundaries, becoming a key element in literature, art, and even life philosophy. These gardens are a reflection of the Japanese soul - both its longing for beauty and awareness of life's transience (mono no aware). They are also places where tradition meets modernity, offering both Japanese and visitors from around the world the opportunity to immerse themselves in tranquility and beauty.

Over the centuries, Japanese gardens have evolved, adapting to changing aesthetic tastes and social needs, but always remaining true to their roots. Their durability and ongoing relevance testify to the deep bond between nature and Japanese culture, and the unchanging quest for beauty, peace, and harmony in everyday life. Let’s then explore the six main types of Japanese gardens.

Karesansui (枯山水, "dry landscape")

Karesansui, also known as "dry landscape gardens", is one of the most distinctive forms of Japanese gardens, rooted in Zen philosophy and practice. The genesis of these gardens is associated with the desire to express vast natural landscapes, such as mountains and waterfalls, using limited means, such as stones and gravel. The development of karesansui was closely linked to the growing influence of Zen Buddhism on Japanese aesthetics, resulting in the creation of gardens that not only please the eye but also encourage introspection and meditation.

A characteristic feature of karesansui gardens is their minimalist composition, which relies on the deliberate use of stones to represent elements of the natural landscape, and gravel, which is carefully raked to suggest the movement of water. Stones are selected and arranged in such a way to mimic natural forms, such as islands, mountains, or animals, while raked patterns in the gravel may resemble undulating water. This modest set of elements requires the viewer’s active participation, as imagination allows completing the landscape.

The philosophy behind karesansui flows from Zen and the idea of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in simplicity, modesty, and impermanence. The dry landscape symbolizes not just the physical landscape but also the inner panorama of the mind, encouraging reflection on transience and the cyclical nature of life. The meditative character of these gardens facilitates contemplation and spiritual tranquility, offering a space for escape from the external world and focusing on the inner experience.

Examples of places where one can admire karesansui include the famous Ryoan-ji garden in Kyoto, considered one of the most exquisite examples of this type of garden. Its modest yet profoundly symbolic composition consists of fifteen stones set against meticulously raked gravel, creating a landscape that continually fascinates and inspires visitors. Other notable examples are Daisen-in, also in Kyoto, offering a more narrative approach to designing karesansui, and Tofuku-ji, where karesansui gardens are part of a larger garden complex, showcasing the diversity and adaptability of this style in Japanese gardening. These and other karesansui gardens constitute an important element of Japan's cultural heritage, serving as a source of inspiration for seekers of peace and lovers of Japanese aesthetics worldwide.

Where else can we find examples of karesansui gardens? For instance, in the game "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice". This game, set in a mythologized version of Japan during the Sengoku period at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries, contains numerous references to Japanese culture and traditions, including Zen and karesansui gardens. Players can find peaceful corners, stone gardens, serving as places for rest and contemplation. In anime, karesansui gardens also find their place, often as a background element that enhances the atmosphere of a scene or as a significant location for the plot's development. An example is the anime "Hyouka," where one episode includes a scene in a karesansui garden, crucial for understanding the solution to one of the mysteries.

Chaniwa (茶庭, "tea garden")

Chaniwa, also known as tea gardens, are inextricably linked with the Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu. The history of these gardens dates back to the Muromachi period (14th-16th centuries), when the culture of tea drinking began to permeate Japanese society, becoming an important aspect of both spiritual and social life. The tea garden was designed to promote reflection and inner peace, essential for participating in the ceremony, which is as focused on aesthetics and philosophy as on the act of drinking tea itself.

A characteristic element of chaniwa is the path (roji), leading from the entrance gate to the tea pavilion (chashitsu). This path is often laid with stones and surrounded by lush vegetation, aiming to isolate the guest from the external world and prepare their mind for the ceremony. Another important element is the stone basin (tsukubai), placed in the garden so that ceremony participants can wash their hands and rinse their mouths before entering the pavilion, symbolizing the cleansing of body and spirit.

The philosophy of chaniwa is closely related to peace of mind and simplicity. These gardens are designed to promote concentration and contemplation, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Vegetation, stones, and water are used not only for their aesthetic values but also as symbols of nature and transience, which are central themes in Zen philosophy. The simplicity and modesty of the garden aim to direct attention to the inner experience, encouraging reflection on the fleetingness of the moment and the importance of harmony.

Examples of places where one can admire these charming gardens include Katsura Rikyu in Kyoto, considered a masterpiece of Japanese garden architecture, combining the beauty of the natural landscape with the subtle aesthetics of the chanoyu ceremony. Kodai-ji, also in Kyoto, offers splendid examples of tea gardens, with stone paths leading to elegant pavilions, surrounded by lush vegetation. Happo-en, located in the heart of Tokyo, is known for its beautifully maintained tea gardens, offering an oasis of peace in the crowded city. These and other tea gardens are an essential part of Japanese culture, serving as meeting places, meditation spots, and celebrations of nature's beauty.

Tea gardens can also be found in video games. One example is Detroit: Become Human. Meetings with Amanda take place precisely in a garden visually designed according to the fundamental principles of chaniwa. Another game worth mentioning is the indie game "Niwa," currently available in Early Access on Steam. In this game, players are tasked with designing and maintaining Japanese gardens, including the option to design chaniwa. How this will turn out is still hard to say, as my testing experience found the game not yet fully functional, though it has potential.

Tsukiyama (築山, "artificial hills")

Tsukiyama, or gardens with artificial hills, epitomize the fusion of Japanese culture with natural aesthetics, reflecting a long history of love for miniaturization and imitation of landscapes. The beginnings of these gardens can be dated back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), when the Japanese aristocracy began creating gardens inspired by poetic descriptions of nature from classical literature. At that time, at noble courts, gardens were created as places of escape from the chaos of political life, offering a space for personal contemplation and relaxation. They were designed to mimic idealized landscapes known from Chinese scrolls and paintings, transforming these inspirations into three-dimensional landscapes. Especially during the Muromachi period (1336-1573 CE), when interest in art and Zen aesthetics significantly increased, tsukiyama gardens began to take on more refined forms, combining natural elements such as stones, water, and vegetation into complex but harmonious compositions. It was then that these gardens became not only reflections of nature's beauty but also a medium for deeper spiritual reflection and artistic expression.

In tsukiyama gardens, the key elements are artificially constructed hills, waterfalls, and ponds, which together create complex, multilayered landscape compositions. These elevations are often constructed from stones and earth, and their shape and placement are carefully thought out to best reflect the character of the natural landscape. Waterfalls and ponds add vitality and dynamism, introducing the element of water, an indispensable component of the Japanese garden, symbolizing life and constant change.

The philosophy of tsukiyama is based on the pursuit of harmony and consistency with nature. By imitating natural landscape forms, these gardens express respect for the beauty of nature and its endless arrangement possibilities. Tsukiyama emphasize the idea that humans are part of a greater whole and their task is to co-create with nature, not dominate it. In this way, these gardens become places of meditation and spiritual connection with the surrounding world.

Examples of places where tsukiyama gardens can be admired include Koraku-en in Okayama, Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, and Rikugi-en in Tokyo. Each of these gardens, being a unique work of garden art, offers a distinct combination of aquatic elements, elevations, and vegetation, inviting visitors to take a peaceful stroll and admire the changing views with every step. These are places where one can experience harmony, tranquility, and extraordinary aesthetics that blend both natural elements and human creativity.

Tsukiyama-type gardens can also be found in the game "Ōkami," where the player embodies a divine wolf. Tsukiyama gardens often serve as spaces for exploration and puzzle-solving, emphasizing the character's connection with nature and the influence of Japanese art and aesthetics on shaping the game world. Similarly, in anime, they often play a significant background role, as in "The Garden of Words," where the beauty and serenity of a tsukiyama garden become a metaphor for the evolving relationship between the characters.

Kaiyū-shiki-teien (回遊式庭園, "strolling garden")

Kaiyū-shiki-teien, or strolling gardens, reached their peak of popularity and development during the Edo period (1603-1868) in Japan, when peace and political stability allowed for the flourishing of art and culture. During this time, thanks to the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate and local daimyō (feudal lords), numerous garden spaces were created to serve both for entertainment and contemplation. The strolling garden was designed to lead visitors through diverse landscapes and scenes, imitating the natural beauty of Japan. This period saw the creation of masterpieces such as Ritsurin Koen (established in 1625 in Takamatsu) and Koraku-en (established in 1700 in Okayama), which continue to enchant with their beauty and harmony to this day.

Kaiyū-shiki-teien are characterized by an extensive network of paths that lead through carefully planned views, including waterfalls, ponds, stone bridges, and various observation points. Every element of these gardens is designed to encourage slowing down and immersing oneself in the observation of details, while also offering broad panoramas and picturesque landscapes. The goal is to create the impression of discovering new, previously unknown areas with every turn of the path.

The philosophy behind Kaiyū-shiki-teien focuses on the idea of discovering the landscape and meditation in motion. Strolling through these gardens is meant to be a spiritual journey, during which visitors can find inner peace and harmony with the nature surrounding them. The garden becomes a metaphor for the path of life, where every step can bring new experiences and discoveries.

Contemporary media, such as video games and anime, often draw inspiration from the aesthetics and philosophy of Kaiyū-shiki-teien. In games like "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice" and "Ghost of Tsushima," these gardens serve not only as a backdrop for the action but also as spaces conducive to reflection and exploration. Similarly, in the anime "Garden of Words," Makoto Shinkai uses the garden motif as a central element of the narrative, highlighting its role in the development of the relationship between the characters and as a place of escape from the noise of the external world. Thus, Kaiyū-shiki-teien in contemporary culture not only delight with their beauty but also inspire creators to explore deeper, universal themes related to the nature of human existence.

Roji (露地, "dewy path")

Roji, known as "dewy paths," play a crucial role in the tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony, chanoyu. The history of roji is closely linked with the development of this ceremony, whose beginnings date back to the Muromachi period (14th-16th centuries). Sen no Rikyū, a master of the tea ceremony living in the 16th century, had a significant impact on shaping this tradition, introducing many of the aesthetic concepts and principles that are still present in the tea ceremony today, including the idea of roji. These paths were designed to physically and symbolically separate the everyday space from the sacred space of the tea pavilion, where the ceremony takes place, serving as an element preparing the participants' spirits for this experience.

Roji is typically characterized by a simple yet deeply thoughtful arrangement of paths leading through the garden to the pavilion. Water elements, such as stone basins (tsukubai), where guests can wash their hands and rinse their mouths before entering the pavilion, are an integral part of roji, symbolizing cleansing and renewal. The vegetation along the paths is chosen to support a sense of calm and focus, and every element of the garden is intended to soothe the mind and prepare it for the ceremony.

The philosophy of roji focuses on the idea of transition, both physical and spiritual, from the external, everyday world to the internal world of the tea ceremony. It is a journey that prepares the spirit to embrace the values of modesty, harmony, respect, and tranquility, which are the foundations of chanoyu. Roji is not just a path but also a metaphorical journey into oneself.

Examples of places where roji can be experienced include the tea ceremony schools such as Urasenke, Omotesenke, and Mushakoji-senke in Kyoto. Each of these schools, with roots tracing back to Sen no Rikyū, nurtures the tradition of chanoyu, offering unique roji that lead to their beautiful pavilions.

Tsubo-niwa (坪庭, "small inner garden")

Tsubo-niwa, literally meaning "small inner garden," has its roots in historical Japanese cities such as Kyoto, where limited urban space required creative use of every piece of land. The history of these tiny gardens dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), but their popularity significantly increased during the Edo period (1603-1868 CE), when the development of urban landscapes in Japan led to the emergence of machiya - traditional urban homes that often integrated tsubo-niwa as an element of the living space. These miniature gardens were designed in both private homes and temples, offering an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty in densely built environments.

Tsubo-niwa is characterized by skillful composition in very small spaces, often no larger than a few square meters. Despite spatial limitations, these gardens can effectively imitate natural landscapes, utilizing stones, vegetation, water, and even architectural elements to create a miniaturized landscape full of harmony and tranquility. Every element is thoughtfully considered to maximize the available space and create a sense of depth and openness.

The philosophy of tsubo-niwa focuses on introducing nature and tranquility into the bustle of urban life, offering residents a place for meditation, relaxation, and connection with nature. These gardens prove that even the smallest space can be transformed into a place full of beauty and harmony, emphasizing the value of peace and balance in daily life.

Examples of places where tsubo-niwa can be admired are primarily the traditional machiya in Kyoto. These historic urban homes often have preserved their internal gardens, now valued by both residents and visitors as a precious cultural heritage and an example of unique Japanese garden aesthetics.

Japanese Gardens in Pop Culture

With their rich history and deep cultural significance, Japanese gardens have found a unique place in pop culture, becoming not just a backdrop for many stories but also a key element influencing narrative development and character traits. In manga, anime, and video games, they are often places of transformation, discoveries, and introspective moments, underscoring their universal character and significance.

In manga and anime:

▫ "Natsume Yuujinchou" features a protagonist who often visits various gardens to meet spirits. Each garden has its own story and reflects the inner experiences of the character, becoming a place where the boundaries between the human world and the spirit world blur.

▫ In "The Garden of Words", Makoto Shinkai uses a Japanese garden as a metaphor for the complex emotions and relationships between the main characters. The garden becomes a space where rain and vegetation reflect emotional storms and relationship development.

In video games:

▫ "Ōkami" presents players with a world full of Shinto and Buddhist mythology, where Japanese gardens play not only an aesthetic role but also a functional one, being places of puzzles and battles with monsters. The harmony of the garden often contrasts with the chaos introduced by antagonists.

▫ "Ghost of Tsushima" immerses players in the world of feudal Japan, where gardens not only highlight the aesthetics of the world but also become key plot points, places of reflection, or even combat. The symbolism and layout of the garden often reflect the inner state of the character.

Looking to the Future

Maintaining and conserving historical Japanese gardens pose significant challenges, both physically and financially. These spaces, full of complex landscape elements and delicate vegetation, require constant care and attention to preserve their unique aesthetics and spiritual significance. Erosion, climate change, and increasing urbanization pose real threats to their survival. Efforts to protect these valuable places include both traditional maintenance methods and modern conservation techniques, as well as social education aimed at raising awareness of the value and need for protection of these gardens.

In response to the challenges associated with maintaining and conserving historical Japanese gardens, many institutions and organizations both in Japan and worldwide actively engage in their protection and promotion. For example, the Japanese Garden Association (Nihon Teien Kyokai) conducts numerous renovation programs aimed at restoring neglected gardens to their former glory. Initiatives such as the international "Gardeners Exchange" program between Kenroku-en Gardens in Kanazawa and the Portland Japanese Garden in the United States promote the sharing of knowledge and best practices in Japanese gardening.

Garden festivals, such as the annual Japanese Garden Festival in Tokyo, attract garden enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing both traditional and modern approaches to garden design. Exhibitions, like those organized by the Japanese Garden Museum in Sakai, offer a comprehensive overview of the history and evolution of Japanese gardens, highlighting their cultural and aesthetic significance. Educational workshops, often held at places like the Japanese Gardens in San Francisco, provide practical knowledge about plant care, landscape design, and the philosophy behind Japanese gardens, allowing participants to acquire the skills necessary to create their own spaces inspired by Japanese tradition.

In conclusion, Japanese gardens play an important role in culture and art, serving as a source of inspiration, a place for reflection, and an escape from the everyday. Their significance goes beyond aesthetic boundaries, fitting into deeper philosophical and spiritual contexts. The increasing awareness and engagement of the global community in the protection of Japanese gardens are promising signs that these unique landscapes will continue to inspire and delight not just us but also our children and grandchildren.

>>SEE ALSO SIMILAR ARTICLES:

Geisha: An Icon of Japanese Culture and its Reflection in Anime and Manga 

Wabi Sabi: The Japanese Aesthetics of Imperfection

The History and Philosophy of Bunraku: From Puppet Theatre to Nico Nico and Anime

Japanese Philosophy of Mono no Aware: The Practice of Mindful Being

 A connoisseur of Asian culture with a deep-seated appreciation for various philosophies of the world. By education, psychologist and Korean philologist. By heart, an Android developer and an ardent tech aficionado. In tranquil moments, he champions a disciplined way of life, firmly believing that steadfastness, perpetual self-enhancement, and a dedication to one's passions is a sensible path for life.

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"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest."  - Albert Einstein (possibly)

  Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

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