Japanese Gardens are most often thought of as a tranquil retreat from the stress of daily living.  Japanese gardens however, are designed for a variety of purposes. Some gardens invite quiet contemplation, and are known as Kanshoniwa.  A Strolling Garden or Kaiyu-shiki requires the visitor to walk through the garden to fully appreciate it. A predetermined path takes visitors through each unique area of a Japanese garden. 

There is no such a thing as a typical Japanese Garden as there are no set criteria for any particular components or elements contained.  There were early texts on the principles of garden design, the earliest known being "Sakuteiki" (The classic of Garden Making). Sakuteiki was written in the eleventh century and was reportedly written by Tachibana no Toshitsuna, the illegitimate son of the founder of the Byodo-in, a Buddhist temple built in Kyoto around 988 AD.  The Sakuteiki while reportedly somewhat vague and contradictory at times, does reflect the aesthetics of the Heian Period. A number of basic principles of garden design have persevered and can be found in most Japanese gardens today. The four main principles to keep in mind when designing a Japanese garden are as follows: (1) The garden should conform to the topography of the site, utilizing if possible a natural flow of water. (2) Components of a garden can simulate famous scenic areas. (3) Gardens should adhere to the principles of feng shui, paying attention to directional symbolism and placing of elements. (4) Gardens should capture the spirit of nature as well as imitate its forms.

The plan for my garden has evolved over several years, and it was my desire to encompass elements of several styles of  Japanese garden. There are areas planned for quiet meditation as well as areas designed for a more recreational use such as Hanami or Cherry blossom viewing. As there shall be a meandering path around the pond and through the garden, as such I feel it most closely represents a stroll garden.  Strolling through the garden one will encounter many species of plants, including many varieties of Bamboo, Japanese Maples, Cherry and Plum Trees, numerous Fruit Trees , Fruiting shrubs, Azaleas, Camellias, Irises and many, many more.  The plan shall incorporate many features seen in Japanese gardens such as a tea house, statuaries, stone lanterns, crane and turtle islands and a waterfall.  As with most Japanese Gardens it shall be a work in progress, evolving over time and likely never be completely finished.

Finally, after years of planning my dream of a Japanese Garden has begun to materialize. In the late summer of 2009 construction of the pond which will be the focal point of my garden began. Click on "pond" at the end of this sentence if you would like to see the construction photos of the pond.