It is considered art to design a Japanese garden. Made for meditation, they truly provide a spiritual experience. Just a simple stroll through the tranquil garden makes one feel exhilarating and uplifted. Check out these ten fine Japanese gardens, that are also regarded to be the best ones in the world.
10. Ryoan-ji Temple, Kyoto, Japan
The most famous Zen garden, which is made of 15 stones placed on the pebbles. The rock gardens help to concentrate during meditation on true meaning of life. Ryōan-ji garden was founded in 1450 and is truly a beautiful and a peaceful haven.
Why to go there?
Explore the gardens and the temple, that are enlisted and protected by UNESCO as an important World Heritage Site. John Cage named his famous opus after this garden.
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9. Shugakuin Rikyu Imperial Villa, Kyoto, Japana
The spacious imperial villa is founded on the hill, therefore amazing panoramic views to the city open from the top. It is surrounded with amazing gardens and walkaways, tranquil ponds and the villa itself.
Why to go there?
Explore the area on a guided tour – actually it is even forbidden to wander independently, since this is an official imperial property.
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8. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, Illinois, USA
Opened in 1978 by John R. Anderson, who has been inspired after his travels to Japan and even the Portland Japanese Garden, which you will find below in the list. Interesting thing about it is that the Japanese garden is found on the grounds of the 13th century garden.
Why to go there?
Not only it features an impeccable design and nice walkaways, but also a variety of fish, many minks and ducks.
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Photo by Tommy Anderson
7. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, USA
The garden reflect Japanese history and culture in the USA. Among beautiful scenery, tranquil ponds and the traditional Japanese house, the park boasts numerous events and programs throughout the year.
Why to go there?
Is regarded to be among the three best Japanese gardens in America. Go and see some traditional shows and performances held in the house.
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6. Kōraku-en, Okayama, Japan
One of the Three Great Gardens of Japan along with Kenroku-en and Kairaku-en, was founded in 1700. Established on the bank of the Aashi River, thus already boasting a beautiful scenery, the garden also features tea houses, hills, ponds and streams.
Why to go there?
Once in the area, it is a must see attraction. After all the garden is among the most popular and famous in Japan.
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5. Portland Japanese Garden, Portland, Oregon, USA
Opened in 1967, the garden was designed by Professor Takuma Tono. It is now often referred to as the best Japanese garden abroad. It is made of five distinct sections. However, the gorgeous maple trees have conquered the hearts around the world after the pictures have gone viral.
Why to go there?
The garden is absolutely staggering, boasting impeccable design and variety of plants, paths and details.
Photo by Tom Anderson
Photo by Tony Herrig
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4. Rikugien Garden, Tokyo, Japan
Built in 1700 and named a “Six Poems Garden”, it is considered to be the best and most beautiful in the capital. Its name refers to the fact that it reproduces scenes from famous Japanese poems. It features a huge pond, surrounded with hills and a web of trails, encompassing the entire park.
Why to go there?
Find a tranquil getaway in the busiest city in the world. Numerous maple trees cover the garden into a colorful foliage every autumn.
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3. Adachi Museum of Art, Yasugi, Japan
There is a garden surrounding the museum, which houses an immense Japanese modern art collection. The garden however also attracts a lot of attention and is often awarded as the best Japanese garden by various gardening magazines.
Why to go there?
By going there you will win twice – explore the beautiful park as well as art collection.
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2. Kairaku-en, Mito, Japan
Another one from the the Three Great Gardens of Japan group, established in 1841 and considered to be a relatively young one. It has been always open to public, contrary to its two counterparts. It features hundreds of cherry blossoms of various colors, that start blossoming in spring and create a marvelous landscape.
Why to go there?
The beautiful garden has a historic and cultural significance in the country. Also it becomes especially beautiful in spring, when sakuras start blossoming.
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1. Kenroku-en, Kanazawa, Japan
Founded in the backdrop of Kanazawa Castle by the Kaga Clan in 1620’s and is regarded to be the most beautiful private gardens. It boasts the oldest fountain in the country, a 18th century’s tea house, a pagoda, stone bridges and other original features.
Why to go there?
A truly beautiful example of Japanese gardening. The park is the best places to go for a peaceful stroll in the area.
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