Japanese Water Garden Design

People have become enamored with an ancient art form from Japan and creating your own Japanese water garden has become somewhat of a recent trend for homeowners who want to spruce up their back gardens. A water garden or garden pond is typically made using water, rocks, a lantern of some sort, a pavilion or teahouse, some kind of enclosure like a fence or hedge and a bridge or stepping stones. The history of the Japanese water garden can be traced back to three main periods, each where the garden pond evolved in some way.

When you think of a Koi pond, what comes to mind? For many, it is a serene Japanese water garden full of large Koi fish swimming lazily through the water. If this is your idea of the perfect pond, keep reading. Below you will find tips and tricks to building a Japanese water garden, and making the Koi pond of your dreams.

Silence is Golden

One of the most important elements to a Japanese water garden is the noise level. You want your pond and surrounding areas to be as quiet and tranquil as possible. Building your pond away from noisy neighbors, busy streets, and playing children is usually a good idea. If you don't have the acreage to create such a space, you can use natural elements such as plants and boulders to create an intimate space that blocks out the noisy surroundings.

Choose the right Decorations

Japanese water gardens are known for their decorative elements. Spend some time searching for pictures of these gardens, so that you can have a better idea of what you want for your own space. There are many pond supply stores that specialize in Japanese water garden design, so you should have no trouble finding items to fit your theme.

High stone walls, bamboo screens, and weathered wood are all great building elements. You can use them to design walkways, bridges, and seating areas.

Getting Started

Once you have a good idea of what you want in your Japanese water garden, it's time to create a plan of action. You will want to begin by sketching out the general layout for your pond. If you plan to raise Koi, there are certain elements that must be present in order to sustain your fish. Many of the elements, such as waterfalls and drainage can be designed to fit the Japanese water garden theme.

Designing a small island in the middle of the pond in which to house a lantern is a classic Japanese water garden design trick that has a lot of impact. A shelter of some sort is also common place, and provides homeowners with a sanctuary in which to enjoy their garden. Lastly, you will want to decide where you want to plan bushes and other plants. Chances are, this will continue to grow and evolve over the life of your pond, but it is important to decide early on what you want it to "eventually" look like.