Customer Reviews

Creating Japanese Gardens

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I was curious as to how to go about creating a Japanese garden, and this book not only answered my questions, it gave me inspiration with its pages of gorgeous photographs. A must have for any aspiring Japanese gardener, or just for anyone interested in Japan.

Inspired by Ryoanji and armed with this book (checked out from the library), I created a large Japanese raked garden (20' x 100') in my back yard. This was my first attempt at such a garden and the results were sublime. Of all the books I read on the subject, this one was the most practical in terms of explaining the history and principles behind such a garden as well as the techniques needed to build one. I referred often to the many illustrative photographs and schematic sketches as I executed my project. Unfortunately, I had to sell my home, but the garden did a lot to increase its marketability. Now that I've bought a new home, I'm adding this book to my permanent collection as reference for my next Zen garden project.

This book has a lot of nice pictures. It did not have the how-to information I really wanted. Buy it if you are still looking for ideas, but not if you need help implementing them.

If you want to by a single book about Japanese Gardens, it is the one I recommend. It has the main aspects covered in a very straightforward illustrated by images and examples of the most important gardens. It is a very good source of inspiration and information.
I have this book for more than a decade and it is still one of my main references on the subject.

I always had an interest in Japanese gardens and always wantes to have one and if not experiance them. The book helped with both accounts. I am now seriously thinking of establishing a small garden and want to know more.