The Beauty and Tranquility of Japanese Gardens
When I think about Japanese gardens, I think about the
bonsai trees - tiny trees that dot almost every Japanese garden you'll find.
I personally love them. I also think about Zen Buddhism and the impact it
has on these beautiful gardens. Nearly every Japanese garden I've ever seen
has been done with a Zen or Zen-like theme. The Zen theme in Japanese
gardens is everywhere and not just in the garden itself. Homes with Japanese
gardens often have a Zen theme as well. It's easy to feel like you're in
Japan itself when walking through such a garden.
I personally became fascinated with Japanese gardens from the moment I saw
one. I remember the event very clearly. It was back when my mother was
working in an international language school. A colleague of hers - a
Japanese professor - had spent a lot of time in Japan and had picked up many
of their customs. One particular custom he developed was that of having and
keeping up a wonderful Japanese garden.
My first experience with his Japanese garden was when the Japanese professor
had some people over to his home and I was one of the lucky ones he invited.
I took one look at his tiny Japanese garden and I was completely hooked. At
the time, I really had no idea what it was. I didn't even know it was an
Asian-themed garden. I just liked how neat and delicate it was. The garden
was spotlessly clean and I remember being frightened about entering it and
not wanting to walk along the stone path through the garden. I was afraid I
would disturb the beauty and peacefulness of this amazing garden.
I think the professor must have noticed how enamored I was by his garden. He
came up to me and carefully explained to me what the garden was and why it
was meant to be so peaceful and tranquil. He told me that I was looking at a
Japanese garden and helped me understand that certain characteristics
defined what a Japanese garden was all about. He even showed me his precious
bonsai trees and explained the features of each one to me. Then he showed me
his magnificent pond, complete with Koi fish swimming in it. He explained
that Koi fish were actually Chinese fish but that they added to the
prosperity of his otherwise completely Japanese-themed garden.
After only a couple of hours, I went from someone who hadn't even heard
about Japanese gardens to someone completely fascinated by how simplistic,
beautiful and tranquil they are. I really learned the meaning of Japanese
gardens that day. In fact, as you may imagine, I have my very own Japanese
garden that I tend to on a daily basis. Without the patience of that kind
professor, I wouldn't have such a beautiful garden today.
About the Author
Read more from this author at: www.myoutdoor-magazine.com
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