Zen gardens: the essence of nature

The symbols in Japanese Zen gardens, abstract and minimalist, stimulate the imagination of the spectator. Sand represents water; the often meticulously raked lines suggest ripples. Stones stand for eternity and fertility.

July 2012, text Karolien Bais, image Mijnd Huijser

Bewaren

Moved by the work of the renowned Srilankan brothers Geoffrey and Bevis Bawa, I started exploring the landscaping in Asia. Finding exquisite examples was easy, whether it was in the palace gardens of the ancient Mughal Empire or in the urban parks of the modern megalopolis.

India
A secluded garden for a rebellious queen
Tribute to a Bengali architect

Japan
Urban landscaping in Tokyo
Zen gardens: The essence of nature

Hong Kong
City dotted with public green

Sri Lanka
The Brief Garden of Bevis Bawa
Geoffrey Bawa’s scaping in nature

Nepal
A stylish oasis in dusty Kathmandu