Japanese Garden

The art of crafting Japanese and Chinese gardens stands as a unique gem in world culture. Originating in China and adopted by the Japanese in the 8th century, this art form continues to be cherished for its ability to bring tranquillity, silence, and elegance to our fast-paced lives.

Construction of our Japanese Garden began in 1995 on an area of 0.67 hectares (1.65 acres), and it was officially opened to the public in 1997. The garden is divided into two main sections. The first represents a serene mountain landscape, featuring a Tea Shelter and a tranquil pond. The second section is a collection area showcasing plants from China and Japan. Key elements of the garden include water, stone, and plants. Instead of vibrant floral displays, the plantings are designed to highlight the grace of evergreen trees and the evolving scenery throughout the seasons.

Traditional elements are thoughtfully incorporated into the garden's design. The stepping stones on the "tobiishi" path slightly protrude above ground to keep shoes clean and are irregularly placed to mimic natural environments. In a peaceful corner, a traditional tall garden lantern symbolizes "the light of knowledge dispelling the clouds of ignorance." The wooden Tea Shelter provides a serene spot for rest or meditation, offering a beautiful view of the garden and pond.

In Japanese garden tradition, individual plants hold symbolic meanings. For instance, maples represent autumn and wisdom, and our garden boasts one of the largest collections of Japanese maple cultivars in Czechia. Plum trees symbolize new life, virtue, and feminine beauty, while pines signify eternal life and resilience. Peonies are associated with nobility, wealth, and power.

The Japanese Garden continues to evolve. In 2012, the pond and its surroundings were completely renovated. A carefully shaped pine tree, cultivated in the garden's nursery for about 20 years, was planted along the pond’s shore. Additionally, over 500 low-growing azaleas and small perennials were introduced to enhance the garden’s tranquil and meditative atmosphere.

In the autumn of 2012, former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, born in Czechoslovakia, planted a Thunberg's pine (Pinus thunbergii) in the garden. This specimen, nearly 2.5 meters (8 feet) tall and over sixty years old, was shaped in Japan. It is surrounded by a stylized stone sea with stones representing Japanese islands. The stone sea is complemented by intriguing hemisphere-shaped plants, designed to accentuate the graceful form of the mature pine.

The garden also hosts trees planted by other notable figures. In 2009, former Czech President Václav Havel planted a Japanese cherry (Prunus serrulata 'Amanogawa'). In 2013, his wife, Dagmar Havlová, added a Japanese maple (Acer palmatum).

The Japanese Garden has become a traditional venue for bonsai exhibitions. Every May, dozens of bonsai from our botanical garden’s collection, as well as from leading Czech and international growers, are displayed here.