In some parts of the world, the weather is getting warmer and more people are venturing out to see the different varieties of Japanese gardens on display.

A Karesansui  (枯山水) is a type of garden where the natural landscape is used in a harmonious manner to create a picturesque scene. Gardens of this variety do not contain any aquatic reservoirs, streams or lakes. However, trees, rocks and shrubs are all fair game. An example of this type of garden is the garden in Daisenin (大仙院). In this garden, the grooves of the sandy gravel floor imitate the river currents.

A Kaiyushiki (かいゆしき) is a type of garden where a pathway has been created for people to walk on. This type of garden is created not only for people to look at, but for people to participate in as well. The pathway is often covered in stone or wood, and neatly carved into the natural landscape. An example of this type of garden is the Rikugien (六義園) garden in Tokyo.

A Tsukiyama (築山) is a type of garden where the viewer can see the mountains in the background of the garden. Shrubs and trees are used to block any distractions that may take any focus away from the mountains. An example of this type of garden is the Suizenji Jōjuen (水前寺成趣園) in Kumamoto Prefecture. This garden has an artificial mountain in the background, but a mountain nonetheless.

If you’re up for some more Japanese gardens, here a video previewing some lovely gardens :