In modern times, the Japanese have utilized the smallest of spaces to make a garden. It may be just a few carefully arranged rocks, a leaning pine tree and a small shrub. But what about people living in huge apartment complexes? How can they enjoy the pleasure of having their own garden? Here is where miniaturization comes into the picture.

Can you imagine some mountain and sea scenery on a small tray measuring about 50 by 30 centimeters (20 by 12 inches)? This is called bonkei, which means “miniature landscape on a tray.” Here we have a small rock, some 10 centimeters (4 inches) high, shaped like a mountain and sloping down to rugged cliffs and an island-dotted sea complete with white-crested waves. There are even boats and fishermen with hair-thin fishing lines. Or, the scene may be Mount Fuji capped with snow and below it a miniature house with thatched roof and tiny sliding doors. Another model is a garden complete with lantern, shrubs and trees no more than three centimeters (about an inch) high. In these tray gardens the seas, rivers and ponds are made of sand. Yet they are so realistic that the apartment dweller can enjoy an ocean view or a pastoral scene even in his small front entrance.

Bonsai is yet another art in which the Japanese excel. These are living trees and plants kept to miniature proportions by careful pruning of stems and roots. A grove of maples may be growing in a shallow pot small enough to hold in the palm of one’s hand. Or, a gnarled pine tree 50 centimeters (20 inches) high may turn out to be 150 years old. These miniature trees and plants are often handed down from generation to generation and are regarded as family treasures.

Use of Modern Small Japanese Garden Design as Objects of Fascination in Your Home

Modern city homes today could be noted for their small size, it could not be denied that these particular areas are to be better used by the homeowners as primary areas of attraction and relaxation. Certainly, with the creation of small Japanese garden design to get along with the small area designs of the said homes, the ambiance of the entire place would become lively and more livable home. Small Japanese garden designs are sure to liven up the area and better bring in natural ambiance and an essence of relaxation to the ones living within the area. Yes, modern homes are likely most deserving to have the chance to enjoy the existence of small Japanese garden design presentations within their midst. With ample consideration given to the Japanese garden design plan to be utilized for the creation of the said miniature gardens, small Japanese garden designs are sure to make a great impact on the environment that the house has.