When East Meets West
Add Some Oriental Magic To Your Garden With A Japanese Inspired Pond
So, you’re considering building your very own Japanese pond; an oasis of Zen in a frantic modern world? Pulling inspiration from the water gardens of Japan will give you some stunning ideas that you can tailor to suit your own garden, bringing some of the magic of the orient to your daily life! A Japanese pond or water garden has many elements which are of equal importance to consider if you want to add some authentic Asian flair to your pond. Here are just a few things that you should consider:
Naturally Flowing Water
In traditional Japanese water gardens, any flowing water should appear natural. This means that fountains, as we know them in the UK, are rarely used. Instead, natural water features or structures in the centre of the pond which allow the water to flow naturally are encouraged. One such example is a ‘Shishi-Odoshi’ or ‘Deer Scarer’. This is a type of natural fountain formed from a hollowed out rod of bamboo on a wooden frame. Water fills the bamboo cane until the weight tips it and the flow of water is emptied back into your pond. Another popular style of Japanese fountain is a ‘Kalehi’, a basic spout made out of bamboo that splashes water onto a stone basin. The sound of water in Japanese culture provides a calming and peaceful atmosphere conducive to losing yourself in your thoughts.
No Man is an Island
The use of an island in the centre of your pond will add an authentically Japanese feel. Why not consider placing a natural water feature or lantern on your island, which should normally be built feature piles of stones, as these are a classic part of any Japanese water garden. Stone lanterns known as Motoji are specially designed for ponds and feature long legs which cast a beautiful reflection in the water. Misiki lanterns are smaller and designed to sit on low banks of land which jut out into the water, or choose a Rankei lantern, which has a curved pedestal; the lantern hangs over the water, creating stunning reflections. You can shop online for pond supplies such as garden pond liners, pumps, plants and lanterns, to ensure that you have everything to hand before you begin adding the decorative elements to your pond.
The Art of Discovery
Japanese gardens aim to make the visitor feel as if he is being led on a journey or adventure and an air of mystery, with hidden elements, is always present. Recreate the mystery in your own pond by screening it with ‘Shioridro’ or bamboo screening. This will also help to shield the fish in your pond from hot summer weather, which is particularly important if you are building a Koi pond as these fish sunburn easily! Bamboo or light timber screening is also a great way to hide the less attractive features of your pond such as the pump and filtration system.
Fish
The Japanese Koi fish, also known as ‘Living Jewels’ are a great choice for your Asian inspired pond, but make sure that it is a big enough space as Koi can grow up to 3 feet in length! Try to choose a shaded spot in your garden for your pond, as Koi don’t like the sun. Consider adding Koi pond plants and Japanese water lilies to provide some natural shade if your pond is already in a sunny area. Try to design your pond with lots of natural curves, as the water will flow better, creating a healthier atmosphere for your fish.
There is plenty of inspiration to be found online where you can also shop for all the supplies to build your Japanese pond, from garden pond liners to filtration systems, plants, decorative features and even the fish themselves!
Sally Dimmock is a writer who believes that a garden should reflect your need to relax and forget the stresses of your daily life. To create your very own Japanese inspired garden, it is important to buy quality basic materials such as garden pond liners and pond plants online to get a great deal.
Featured image courtesy of HayNeedle.com
Category: Outdoor Fountains
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