Japanese gardens are renowned for their transcendent beauty. The classical Zen garden, for example, is praised for its purity and meditative spirituality. Its transformative quality is by no means an accident; Japanese gardens are meticulously designed and carefully crafted down to every single element. Their distinct styles are in fact exceedingly varied and reveal a deep connection to Japan’s history and culture.

Anika Ogusu is a passionate gardener with a special interest in Japanese gardens. She is also the founder of Real Japanese Gardens, which is the most comprehensive online source for everything to do with Japanese gardens. Definitely worth your time to check it out!

Here is the low down on 5 of the most important types of traditional Japanese garden design and the elements that you will find in each. A little background to these styles will really enhance your understanding next time you visit a Japanese garden!