Japanese Tea House and Inn Gardens
A garden found walking Nioumon dori, Okazaki in Kyoto was the best ‘’private’’ garden I’ve seen in Kyoto and I’ve been lucky to have walked past many. Why this one? Because, I’m continually peering through gateways and entries hoping to see the perfect Japanese garden and this one stood out maybe because of its intricacy in design, complexity and visual appeal when observed from its various prospective.
The garden is immaculate in health and vitality. The use of ornaments and symbolism varied including items of unusual shapes and forms. I noticed the garden was modelled on a stroll garden pattern done in miniature and built for viewing. Stepping stones were positioned along the pathway which winds its way around a central pond linked by a stream with a water cascade. The pathway darting off into corners, no doubt hiding something of interest from the observer. Stone bridges cross a stream to add affect and interest. Lanterns placed selectively and carefully to provide balance in symmetry and added contrast. Clear water in the pondage and contain colourful Koi Carp.
The garden area designed to form a half crescent shape weaving around two sides of the inn with the widest part near the centre suggesting the Inn and garden were designed as one. The Inn having three separate dining areas facing the gardens through full length windows and sliding panelled doors. Each dining area looking onto their own specially designed features.
I suspect in the evening the garden area would be lit carefully to expose each intended part without illuminating the garden proper. The diner beckoned by a touch of mystery of what’s not illuminated by the lighting. One wouldn’t mind joining them.
The garden wasn’t trying to create a spiritual or Zen garden image but to me a garden developed for viewing from inside the Inn. The Inn patrons not being asked to enter the garden but view it as an adjunct to the hospitality offered by their gathering and the host.
The garden suggested to me the style could be copied and modelled to suit most sites and altered in structure to suit budget, climate, materials and normal site constraints. Maintenance of the garden important to maintain its year long appeal.
I feel this garden was designed for Kyoto’s distinct four seasons and the bare maples I saw will erupt into foliage interspersed with plum and cherry blossom and followed by flowering Azalea. In the fall the turning of the maple will most likely create a visually spectacular backdrop for the patrons blessed to be enjoying such a place and no doubt adding to their dining experience.
