Designing and Creating Japanese Gardens

For the Japanese, the garden is a microcosm of the world, rich in symbols; it is also the perfect expression of their affinity with nature. Explaining the spiritual and philosophical symbolism of the Japanese garden, this book also tells how the Western gardener can recreate its beauty and serenity. Among the topics are history, philosophy, and spirituality; changing styles, designs, and fusui—from pavements and stepping stones to gateways and lanterns; plants and planting—the importance of the cultivation, choice, positioning, and care of plants; water and structural features; and the gardens of Japan, with advice on gardening in the West.

For the Japanese, the garden is a microcosm of the world, rich in symbols; it is also the perfect expression of their affinity with nature. Designing and Creating Japanese Gardens explains the spiritual and philosophical symbolism of the Japanese garden and how the Western gardener can recreate its beauty and serenity. Among the topics are history, philosophy, and spirituality; changing styles, designs, and fusui—from pavements and stepping stones to gateways and lanterns; plants and planting—the importance of the cultivation, choice, positioning, and care of plants; water and structural features; and the gardens of Japan, with advice on gardening in the West. Inspiring as well as practical, Designing and Creating Japanese Gardens features more than 300 color photos and drawings.