Japanese Tea Garden

Tea houses were built and separated from the residence by a tea garden, a small transitional space to separate daily life from the ceremony.

The ceremony is still used to promote friendship and relaxation in today's hectic lifestyles.

Though formal teahouses may not be feasible for everyone, the ceremony is still respected and performed by many Japanese people in their homes and restaurants.

The ceremony is meant to enhance the appreciation of nature and art. The ambience created by the tea garden is meant to allow you to leave the outside world behind before participating in the tea ceremony inside.

Elements of the Japanese Tea Garden

To create a calming atmosphere and promote a connection with nature, careful consideration is given to the plantings and their arrangement in the tea garden.

Water features are an important aspect, with flowers surrounding them. This can be a simple fountain or bamboo pipe dripping water into a basin.

Winding paths of stepping stones lend themselves to slowing down one's pace through the small garden area.

Once the tea house is reached, an invitation to enter if offered. One must bow to enter through the low doorway.

Water basins are present for pouring water over and then drinking from one's hands for purification before entering. Stone lanterns along the path lead the way at night.

Plantings

The primary plantings in a Japanese tea garden are flowering shrubs. As with most Japanese garden designs, these shrubs are meant to imitate nature and are trimmed and shaped accordingly.

Rhododendrons may be used to separate areas within the garden. For year-round color, hollies and yews are included.

Hydrangea and azalea are favorites for variety of leaves and flower. Trees provide focal points and height. Bamboo, plum and pine provide year-round color.

Flowers are used primarily as accents around water features. Their use is limited in order to prevent distraction.

Water plants such as lotus and water lily can be added to the water feature.

Colors for plantings should be subdued rather than vibrant to add to the serene feeling that the garden is meant to produce.

This is a meaningful ceremony that everyone can enjoy. The calming elements and mood created in a Japanese tea garden can lift our spirits and help us focus on more meaningful aspects of life.

The additional of this type of garden and ceremony would provide a calming respite from our hectic daily routines.

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