Style 2: Strolling Pond Gardens

The strolling pond gardens of Japan are accurately named; they have an ornamental pond as their centerpiece and a path that meanders around the garden's periphery. The path may branch off in many places to provide spots for contemplation. These side paths may lead up to a grassy overlook or down to the pond's edge, and their existence allows you to have some control over your experience. Like the natural gardens, strolling pond gardens feature a variety of plants scattered beside their paths for your viewing pleasure. Common plants include Japanese irises and weeping willows.

The strolling pond gardens also incorporate several man-made objects, unlike the natural gardens, which try to replicate nature as closely as possible. Along with benches provided at strategic points along the path to encourage pauses, you might see a heron sculpture fishing in an inlet or a bronze frog basking in the sun. In addition, you might spot large stones in the water, representing a crane or tortoise, both of which wish you a long life. Looking toward the pond, you will see curved bridges cross the pond in several areas. In the water you may glimpse some Japanese koi darting among the water lilies.

Turn the page to read about one garden that doesn't look like a garden at all.