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Define a Clear Boundary

A Japanese garden is a retreat from the world to appreciate nature, so it should have a clearly defined border that separates it from its surroundings. A low stone wall surrounds the rock garden at Ryoanji on three sides, blocking the view of the streets and sidewalks.

The boundary should be visible but doesn’t have to hide the surrounding landscape. A wood or bamboo fence, stone or brick wall or even a landscape feature like a stream or hill will work.

4 / 9

Take Your Time

Workers can erect a Japanese apartment building in a matter of weeks, but establishing a Japanese garden is a life-long affair. It’s an opportunity to slow down and attune to the natural world. That’s something you can’t rush.

Rather than fill a plot of land with grown, store-bought vegetation, start with bulbs and seedlings. As the garden approaches maturity, maintain the space as part of your daily or weekly routine, and add elements as they make sense. Become one with the garden and, by extension, the nature it represents.

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Choose Subtle Over Showy

Some gardens are riots of color, but not a Japanese garden. Everything is understated. The vegetation is mostly green and brown, with landscape features in proportion to their surroundings.

The goal is to create a space where all the elements harmonize and none dominate. Moss is a great equalizer, tying all the elements together. Bushes and trees need to be manicured never be shaped into topiaries.

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