Asia Images / John Lander Photography

  • Portfolio
  • About
  • Contact
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area
  • Books
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
x

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
Next
1856 images found
twitterlinkedinfacebook

Loading ()...

  • Jisso-in Tsukabaim kakei, water basin, tsukubai, japanese basin, chozubachi, chozuya, temizuya, tsukubai, Japanese Water Basin, Tranquility;  Simplicity; serene, serenity, exterior space, nature, pattern, scenic, visual effect, no people, scenery, tranquil, tranquility, calm, historic sites, natural light, natural beauty, spirituality, simplicity, natural, landscapes, inspiration, inspiring, calming, calms, contemplative, meditative, mellow, peaceful, pleasant, beautiful, calmness,  idyllic, ideal, peacefulness, serenity, serene, nobody,
    tsukabai-60.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-4.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-6.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    fusuma-chishakuin-1.jpg
  • Northern Garden, Tofukuji Hojo Temple.  Square cut stones and moss are distributed in a chequered pattern. Though modern in its style and composition, this is one of the most unique gardens in Japan.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden in an ichimatsu inspired checked pattern.
    tofukuji-north-05.jpg
  • Northern Garden, Tofukuji Hojo Temple.  Square cut stones and moss are distributed in a chequered pattern. Though modern in its style and composition, this is one of the most unique gardens in Japan.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden in an ichimatsu inspired checked pattern.
    tofukuji-north-06.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-2.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-3.jpg
  • Northern Garden, Tofukuji Hojo Temple.  Square cut stones and moss are distributed in a chequered pattern. Though modern in its style and composition, this is one of the most unique gardens in Japan.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden in an ichimatsu inspired checked pattern.
    tofukuji-north-04.jpg
  • Zuiho-in Garden of the Cross is raked into patterns to suggest a cross.  The founder of the temple, Otomo became a Christian before it was outlawed in Japan, and was renamed Francisco.  However, for hundreds of years the Christian background of this garden was hidden.  The Garden of the Cross is called this for the pattern that the stones make on the sand. The original idea of a cross was inspired the hidden beliefs of Otomo.
    zuiho-in-12.jpg
  • Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism.  Its garden was inspired by the area around Mt Lushan in China ("Rozen" in Japanese) and its beauty changes with the seasons. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-1.jpg
  • Northern Garden, Tofukuji Temple.  Square cut stones and moss are distributed in a chequered pattern. Though modern in its style and composition, this is one of the most unique gardens in Japan.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden in an ichimatsu inspired pattern.
    tofukuji-north-1.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-5.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    chishakuin-tsukubai-1.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    fusuma-chishakuin-2.jpg
  • Chishakuin Garden, the creation of tea master Sen-no-Rikyu is well known for its sense of optical expansion, here the illusion of space is created by the manipulation of scale and perspective providing an exercise in graduated topiary, with a broad expanse of shrubs.  Chishaku-in is an example of the synthesis of architecture and landscape, a feature of many Japanese gardens that is usually only noticed unconsciously.  The main garden of Chishakuin was inspired by the area around Mt. Rozan, China.  Chishakuin Temple is the headquarters of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple itself is has several National Treasures of Japan, wall paintings and decorative screen paintings.
    fusuma-chishakuin-3.jpg
  • Northern Garden, Tofukuji Temple.  Square cut stones and moss are distributed in a chequered pattern. Though modern in its style and composition, this is one of the most unique gardens in Japan.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden in an ichimatsu inspired pattern.
    tofukuji-north-2.jpg
  • 78.5 Engakuji 円覚寺 is the main temple of the Engakuji sect of the Rinzai Buddhist sect. Engakuji is one of the leading Zen temples in eastern Japan and ranks second among Kamakura's five great Zen temples. Its unique garden was restored in 1969 according to an old drawing. Zen Buddhism regarded gardens as microcosms of the natural landscape and this is a fine example.
    78.5.TENTATIVE-KAMAKURA-ENGAKUJI-02.jpg
  • 23. Daigo-ji 醍醐寺 Within its grounds, Daigo-ji houses eighteen of Japan’s National Treasures. Among them are buildings belonging to Sanbo-in famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden was laid out with a large pond, paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  Sanbo-in was designed for viewing from a specific perspective within the temple’s buildings. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden’s islands depict ‘fortuitous crane’, the ‘tortoise’ and the ‘"isle of eternal youth’ - poetic terms that show stones and ponds can be poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship.
    23.KYOTO-DAIGOJI-02.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-14.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-12.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art is made up of the private collection of Zenko Adach who collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  He was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and  stone for the garden himself from all around Japan.  In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision. Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shoisai Project.
    adachi-garden-06.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-07.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-01.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-03.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge, or "full moon bridge" built in the Chinese style at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden in Tokyo.  It has this name because a full moon is formed by the arch of the bridge and its reflection in the pond beneath.
    koishikawa-korakuen-24.jpg
  • Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-korakuen-23.jpg
  • Ninomaru garden was designed by the famous landscape architect and tea master, Kobori Enshu. It is located between the two main rings of fortifications, next to the palace of the same name. The garden has a large pond with three islands and features numerous carefully placed stones and topiary pine trees.  Nijo Castle and its garden are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninomaru-7.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-06.jpg
  • Ritsurin Trail within this magnificent landscape garden in Takamatsu.  It is  thought to be one of the finest gardens in Japan.  The garden boasts many features such as trails, teahouses, ponds, hills and pavilions set by Mt. Shiun providing a kind of borrowed scenery.
    ritsurin-garden-09.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-10.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-12.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lord during the Edo Period and considered one of the most esquisite gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features ponds, hills and pavilions set in the woods which acts as background and a textbook example of borrowed scenery.
    ritsurin-garden-16.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-18.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-21.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-15.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-11.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-09.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-08.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-05.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-04.jpg
  • Japanese Tea House at the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate park was originally part of the Pan Pacific Exposition.  One of the craftsmen of the Japanese village, Makoto Hagiwara, helped design the Japanese village, and later he became responsible for the majority of the Japanese Tea Garden.  Hagiwara and his family became residents of one of the buildings in the garden, living within Golden Gate Park at the time.
    golden-gate-tea-9.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-01.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-07.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-13.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-15.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - a landscape garden in Takamatsu was built by  feudal lords during the Edo Period.  Ritsurin is considered to be one of the finest gardens in Japan, and features many pavilions, ponds, bridges and hills set beside wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and serves as an example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-17.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-13.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-10.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-02.jpg
  • Tsutenkyo Bridge at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden -  one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period. Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-tsutenkyo-amber.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge, or "full moon bridge" built in the Chinese style at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden in Tokyo. It has this name because a full moon is formed by the arch of the bridge and its reflection in the pond beneath. Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-engetsukyo-9.jpg
  • The Karamon Gate is an official entrance from the study of the house through the inner court to Korakuen Gardens. It is supported on both sides by the Sodebei and side walls. The Gate was burnt down in an air raid in 1945, and only the foundation of the gate, stone steps and the stone masonry were left intact.  Karamon Gate has recently been restored along with the small pond garden adjacent.  Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens is a strolling garden centered around a pond, reflecting the preference for the Chinese aesthetic with landscapes replicating famous sites in China, in accordance with the style of Zhu Zhiyu, a scholar of Confucianism in the Ming Dynasty.
    koishikawa-east-09.jpg
  • Ichijo Ekan was a noble during the Edo Period, the son of Enperoro Goyozei but was adopted by the Ichijo clan.  He served as Advisor and Regent to the Emperor, brother Enperor Gomizuno.  In later years he became a Buddhist monk and took the name Chitoku Ekan.  He was an affcionado of the arts, especially tea ceremony, flower arrangement, architecture and calligraphy.  Naturally, these interests led him to construct a retreat which was originally built in Kyoto and later brought to Kamakura.. Ichijo Ekan Sanso is an exquisite example of Japanese court architecture often compared to Katsura Rikyu.  The use of natural materials in the villa and garden highlights the nature loving tastes of the time.
    kamakura-7.jpg
  • 78.3 Kenchojji 建長寺 is the oldest Zen monastery in Japan, built in the Kamakura period in 1273.  The layout of the temple follows the Chinese Xian tradition with all the buildings arranged on an axis. It is known for its architecture especially its golden gates.  Also, there is an austere pond garden - one of the few Japanese gardens in Kamakura. Kenchoji is one of the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura.  Although still important and occupying a large amount of space, in its heyday it once contained 49 sub-temples. During the Kamakura Period, scholars from the Five Great Zen Temples exercised enormous power in Japan.
    78.3.TENTATIVE--KAMAKURA.KENCHOJI.02.jpg
  • Ichijo Ekan was a noble during the Edo Period, the son of Enperoro Goyozei but was adopted by the Ichijo clan.  He served as Advisor and Regent to the Emperor, brother Enperor Gomizuno.  In later years he became a Buddhist monk and took the name Chitoku Ekan.  He was an affcionado of the arts, especially tea ceremony, flower arrangement, architecture and calligraphy.  Naturally, these interests led him to construct a retreat which was originally built in Kyoto and later brought to Kamakura.. Ichijo Ekan Sanso is an exquisite example of Japanese court architecture often compared to Katsura Rikyu.  The use of natural materials in the villa and garden highlights the nature loving tastes of the time.
    ichijo-ekan-sanso-13.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-55.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    daijo-in-13.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    daijo-in-10.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    daijo-in-11.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-08.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-07.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-04.jpg
  • Gion-ji Temple Gate in Mito is a Zen temple of Mitsukuni Mito foundation of the public with history dating back to China of the Ming Dynasty. Kokoro Etsu Zenji was brought over to Japan is the founder. At that time it was the head temple with 30 branches   under Nanzenji in Kyoto. Currently, Gion-ji is under the supervision of Sojiji Temple in Yokohama, is the temple of the Soto sect.
    gion-ji-mito-2.jpg
  • Howa-en is also called Mito Mitsuke is relatively hidden and unsung garden in Mito, Ibaraki. It is most famous for its hydrangeas of which there are 10 <br />
different species, in bloom during July. In addition, there are wisteria near the pond growing in their trellises. The pond garden has a small pagoda on its own tiny island framed by Japanese pines which is lit up in the evenings. Amebas Pond is the centerpiece of the garden, with a strolling path around its cicircumference, which passes by a small waterfall, plum and sakura cherry trees. The grounds of Howaen or Howa-en are adjacent to Keiseiruji Temple (original name was Kokadoin or Kofuin) and was a favorite of Tokugawa Mitsukuni who named it Hodenkoen. Locally the temple and garden complex is called
    howa-en-10.jpg
  • Howa-en is also called Mito Mitsuke is relatively hidden and unsung garden in Mito, Ibaraki. It is most famous for its hydrangeas of which there are 10 <br />
different species, in bloom during July. In addition, there are wisteria near the pond growing in their trellises. The pond garden has a small pagoda on its own tiny island framed by Japanese pines which is lit up in the evenings. Amebas Pond is the centerpiece of the garden, with a strolling path around its cicircumference, which passes by a small waterfall, plum and sakura cherry trees. The grounds of Howaen or Howa-en are adjacent to Keiseiruji Temple (original name was Kokadoin or Kofuin) and was a favorite of Tokugawa Mitsukuni who named it Hodenkoen. Locally the temple and garden complex is called
    howa-en-07.jpg
  • Howa-en is also called Mito Mitsuke is relatively hidden and unsung garden in Mito, Ibaraki. It is most famous for its hydrangeas of which there are 10 <br />
different species, in bloom during July. In addition, there are wisteria near the pond growing in their trellises. The pond garden has a small pagoda on its own tiny island framed by Japanese pines which is lit up in the evenings. Amebas Pond is the centerpiece of the garden, with a strolling path around its cicircumference, which passes by a small waterfall, plum and sakura cherry trees. The grounds of Howaen or Howa-en are adjacent to Keiseiruji Temple (original name was Kokadoin or Kofuin) and was a favorite of Tokugawa Mitsukuni who named it Hodenkoen. Locally the temple and garden complex is called
    howa-en-04.jpg
  • Keiseiruji Temple (original name was Kokadoin or Kofuin) and was a favorite of Tokugawa Mitsukuni who named it Hodenkoen. Adjacent to the temple is a Japanese pond garden called Howa-en or Mito Mitsuke - a relatively hidden and unsung garden in Mito, Ibaraki. It is most famous for its hydrangeas of which there are 10 <br />
different species in bloom during July.  The pond garden has a small pagoda on its own tiny island framed by Japanese pines which is lit up in the evenings. Amebas Pond is the centerpiece of the garden, with a strolling path around its cicircumference, which passes by a small waterfall, plum and sakura cherry trees.
    howa-en-02.jpg
  • Yakushiike Garden is named after its central pond, Yakushi-ike.  The Pond garden is surrounded by plum and cherry trees, so it is a famous spot in Tokyo for hanami or cherry blossom viewing.  Its unique two tried arched bridge is the centerpiece of the garden. Within the park grounds, there are thatched roof rural houses, former residences of the Nagai and Hagino families that have been preserved.  The park has been designated as a National Designated Cultural Property and a National Place of Scenic Beauty. And one of Japan’s top 100 Historical Parks.
    yakushiike-09.jpg
  • Shinjuku Gyoen was designed and built on the estate of Lord Naito, a feudal lord of the Edo period. Shinjuku Gyoen was originally an imperial garden,but then donated to the public and designated a national garden after WWII. One of Tokyo's largest parks, it covers over 144 acres. Besides the Japanese Traditional Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen also has a French Formal Garden and an English Garden. Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the most important gardens of the Meiji era.
    shinjuku-gyoen-garden-11.jpg
  • Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-korakuen-11.jpg
  • Rikugien Garden - the name of this garden means the six traditional elements essential to great poetry. A wonderful, romantic sentiment in itself for a garden stroll but especially apt because the concept has been followed through to the design and layout of this garden which depicts 88 scenes from a classic Japanese poem. It does so by use of the pond, stone islands, teahouses and bridges
    rikugien-yamakage-bridge-6.jpg
  • Rikugien Garden - the name of this garden means the six traditional elements essential to great poetry. A wonderful, romantic sentiment in itself for a garden stroll but especially apt because the concept has been followed through to the design and layout of this garden which depicts 88 scenes from a classic Japanese poem. It does so by use of the pond, stone islands, teahouses and bridges
    rikugien-30.jpg
  • Shomyoji Pond Garden - Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    shomyoji-pond-garden-1.jpg
  • Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the •10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-amber.jpg
  • Jizo-in, also known as the Bamboo Temple, thanks to its bamboo forest, was built in 1367 by the Hosakawa family. The temple flourished for five generations before the Onin war destroyed most of the buildings like so many others in Kyoto.  Its simple and quiet garden, not to mention the bamboo forest can be beautiful if the light is right. The temple’s name with the word Jizo in it refers to the small stone statues known to be guardians of women, children and travelers which, can often be found along roads as well as in many temples in Japan.  
    jizo-in-kyoto-2.jpg
  • Mimuroto-ji Garden in Uji is also known as the “flower temple” for its large gardens of seasonal flowers.  Its most famous garden is a classic chisen-kaiyu-shiki or a pond strolling garden. The rounded shrubs throughout the zen garden and pond garden are meant to resemble green tea bushes for which Uji is famous throughout Japan.  The present main hall of Mimurotoji houses the temple's principle image of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva. 
    Mimuroto-ji-garden-9.jpg
  • Yukinoniwa Garden  - The garden of Myomanji named Yuki-no-niwa or “snow garden” was built by Matsunaga Teitoku. In its heyday it was called one of the three best gardens in Kyoto that had the combination of: snow, moon and flowers.  There is a fine washitsu tatami room from which to admire the garden. Yukinoniwa Garden has been compared to Jojuin garden - a sub-temple of Kiyomizudera. Myomanji temple grounds are made up of islands of raked gravel.  Additionally there is a tower, as well as a large stupa which is a copy of Bodh Gaya in India where Buddha gained Enlightenment.
    myomanji-14.jpg
  • Ikkyu-ji-shuon-an-8.jpg
  • Shozen-ji Temple in northern Kyoto sees few visitors though it is not far from mega famous crowd scene temples Kinkakuji and Genko-an.  In fact, they don’t even charge an admission fee.  Its modest garden and ancient tree make it a worthwhile stop, however.  Shozen-ji Temple’s small zen garden is a rare chance to enjoy the tranquility of a Japanese zen garden without all the crowds - they way they are supposed to be enjoyed, not as a tourist attraction but an integral part of a Zen Buddhist, Jodo Sect, temple in Kyoto.  Shozen-ji is known for its rhododendrons or tsutsuji but it is not so well known as to be mobbed with tourists to see them as other venues in town trump Shozenji in this department.
    shozenji-2.jpg
  • Tofukuji Temple Eastern Garden - Hokutoshichisei - Seven cylindrical stones are arranged in a field to represent main stars of the Great Bear of the Heavens or the Big Dipper. These stones were originally foundation stones used in other places in the temple.  Renowned landscape architect and garden designer Shigemori Mirei designed this garden to show the Great Bear of Heaven that is the Big Dipper.   The pillars were repurposed from other parts of the building.
    tofukuji-east-06.jpg
  • Shinjuku Gyoen Garden was designed and built on the estate of Lord Naito, a feudal lord of the Edo period.  Shinjuku Gyoen was originally an imperial garden, but then donated to the public.  Shinjuku Gyoen Garden was designated a national garden after WWII.  Besides the Japanese Traditional Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen also has a French Formal Garden and an English Garden.  Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the most important Japanese gardens of the Meiji era.
    shinjuku-gyoen-13.jpg
  • Pond Garden at Tofukuji Temple - the head temple of the Tofukuji School of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.  Its original buildings were burned but were rebuilt in the 15th century according to the original plans. About this time it flourished as one of the Five Great Temples of Kyoto.  In addition to the pond garden, the main building of the temple is surrounded by gardens unique in Japan.
    tofukuji-10-crop.jpg
  • Shinjuku Gyoen was designed and built on the estate of Lord Naito, a feudal lord of the Edo period.  Shinjuku Gyoen was originally an imperial garden,but then donated to the public and designated a national garden after WWII.  One of Tokyo's largest parks, it covers over 144 acres.  Besides the Japanese Traditional Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen also has a French Formal Garden and an English Garden. Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the most important gardens of the Meiji era.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-153.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony. Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    basin-1.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony. Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    basin-2.jpg
  • Hashin-tei Garden at Komyo-in.  Komyo-in is one of many sub-temples at Tofuku-ji and was founded in 1391. Several tatami rooms in this small temple offer a commanding view of its fine garden. The central part of the garden is a composed of a moss and stone design with numerous standing stones protruding from the mossy hillocks. The raked gravel, symbolizes water.  Komyo-in is much quieter than the rest of Tofuku-ji, even during the peak seasons and there lies is charm.  The garden at Komyo-in was designed by renowned garden designer and landscape architect Mirei Shigemori.  Mirei designed the garden with three Buddhist triads with stones placed on lines drawn from the large stone in the middle of the garden likened to rays from the Buddha. Hashin-tei Garden at Komyo-in. Komyo-in is one of many sub-temples at Tofuku-ji and was founded in 1391. Several tatami rooms in this small temple offer a commanding view of its fine garden. The central part of the garden is a composed of a moss and stone design with numerous standing stones protruding from the mossy hillocks. The raked gravel, symbolizes water. Komyo-in is much quieter than the rest of Tofuku-ji, even during the peak seasons and there lies is charm. The garden at Komyo-in was designed by renowned garden designer and landscape architect Mirei Shigemori. Mirei designed the garden with three Buddhist triads with stones placed on lines drawn from the large stone in the middle of the garden likened to rays from the Buddha.
    AMBER-2022-136.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony.<br />
Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    tsukabai-51.jpg
  • Funda-in was founded in 1321 as a family temple for the Ichijo clan, but always had strong ties with neighboring Tofuku-ji. Funda-in has many interesting details in its interior: dried leaves embedded in the paper shoji screens from different plant leaves. Funda-in also has a very elaborate bamboo tsukubai water basin adorned with ikebana flower arrangements. The temple has three gardens: the South Garden is in front of the main hall and consists of raked gravel with a moss garden at the far end. On the moss lie two groups of stones: the one on the left represents a tortoise, the one on the right a crane. The East Garden is made up of lots of moss, stones and rhododendrons. In its far end is a small pavilion with a round window. The painter and Zen monk Sesshu is said to have designed the southern garden so the temple is also commonly called Sesshu-ji. The modern garden master Shigemori Mirei restored the garden and added the eastern garden.
    funda-in-11.jpg
  • Maple Leaf Shoji at Funda-in - founded in 1321 as a family temple for the Ichijo clan, but always had strong ties with neighboring Tofuku-ji. Funda-in has many interesting details in its interior: dried leaves embedded in the paper shoji screens from different plant leaves. Funda-in also has a very elaborate bamboo tsukubai water basin adorned with ikebana flower arrangements. The temple has three gardens: the South Garden is in front of the main hall and consists of raked gravel with a moss garden at the far end. On the moss lie two groups of stones: the one on the left represents a tortoise, the one on the right a crane. The East Garden is made up of lots of moss, stones and rhododendrons. In its far end is a small pavilion with a round window. The painter and Zen monk Sesshu is said to have designed the southern garden so the temple is also commonly called Sesshu-ji. The modern garden master Shigemori Mirei restored the garden and added the eastern garden.
    funda-in-10.jpg
  • Funda-in was founded in 1321 as a family temple for the Ichijo clan, but always had strong ties with neighboring Tofuku-ji. Funda-in has many interesting details in its interior: dried leaves embedded in the paper shoji screens from different plant leaves. Funda-in also has a very elaborate bamboo tsukubai water basin adorned with ikebana flower arrangements. The temple has three gardens: the South Garden is in front of the main hall and consists of raked gravel with a moss garden at the far end. On the moss lie two groups of stones: the one on the left represents a tortoise, the one on the right a crane. The East Garden is made up of lots of moss, stones and rhododendrons. In its far end is a small pavilion with a round window. The painter and Zen monk Sesshu is said to have designed the southern garden so the temple is also commonly called Sesshu-ji. The modern garden master Shigemori Mirei restored the garden and added the eastern garden.
    funda-in-02.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony.<br />
Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    autumn-tsukubai-3.jpg
  • Togeppo Saioku-ji Temple was cherished by the poet, Socho who spent his final years at the hermitage here.  The temple's garden incorporates the scenery of Tenchuuzan and Maruko Fuji. Togeppo is designated as a national scenic spot and historic site of Japan.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-73.jpg
  • Eiho-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple in Tajimi, Gifu and was established in 1313.  The temple is a monastery known for its pond garden with a fabulous bridge over the pond listed as National Treasure.
    Eiho-ji-12.jpg
  • Eiho-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple in Tajimi, Gifu and was established in 1313.  The temple is a monastery known for its pond garden with a fabulous bridge over the pond listed as National Treasure.
    Eiho-ji-9.jpg
  • Yamanashi Prefecture is famous for its rock crystals and many world-class lapidary experts.  It should not be surprising, therefore, that a rock garden, for which the Japanese are famous, should be born.  The main difference here is that the stones are not austere white pebbles, but multicolored ones from local crystals.  The Jewel Dream Garden is large, and run by a local jewelry company that sponsors it and the adjacent Jewelry Museum.
    shingen-jewel-garden-5.jpg
  • Yamanashi Prefecture is famous for its rock crystals and many world-class lapidary experts.  It should not be surprising, therefore, that a rock garden, for which the Japanese are famous, should be born.  The main difference here is that the stones are not austere white pebbles, but multicolored ones from local crystals.  The Jewel Dream Garden is large, and run by a local jewelry company that sponsors it and the adjacent Jewelry Museum.
    shingen-jewel-garden-2.jpg
  • Erin-ji Temple Belfry - Erin-ji is a Zen temple set in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture and was built in 1330. Zen priest and garden designer Muso Soseki was asked to establish and design the temple. It is now a temple of the Myoshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism.  The temple's garden is best viewed from either temple's tatami rooms or connecting hallways.
    erin-ji-temple-1.jpg
  • Kyu Furukawa Garden was originally the domain of Mutsu Munemitsu. but later became the property of the Furukawa family.  Ogawa Jihei designed the garden renowned for its beauty. The Furukawa garden is regarded as an example of Japanese gardens of the Taisho Period.
    kyu-furukawa-12.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-8.jpg
Next