Reasons to Design a Japanese Garden

Since Tokyo hosted the 2020 Olympic Games, the Modern Innkeeper team has been asking ourselves: what would renting a vacation property in Japan be like?

After we interviewed Nakamichi Sachiko from Beniya Mukayu we already had the itch, but now it is back.

And stronger than ever.

We are uncertain when this will happen, so in the meantime, we will do our best to experience it by highlighting how a Japanese garden spruces up your vacation rental.

And of course, we let you know what you need to make it happen!

 

Benefits of a Zen Garden

Other gardens are a place to play games, but a Zen garden’s strengths relate to mental health:

●     Relieves stress

●     Encourages relaxation

●     Inspires creativity

●     Promotes meditation

●     Increases concentration

●     Enhances focus

●     Strengthens discipline

Mental health is an important part of life people are paying more attention to (which is why we recommend getting a hammock). Having a garden that enables guests to improve theirs is adding significant value to your property.

Not to mention, they are visually satisfying.

 

What a Zen Garden Entails

Zen gardens derive from a different culture; therefore, it has elements you do not see in your typical garden in the states.

So use this blog as a guide when you begin designing yours.

 

Rocks and Sand

Depending on your vacation rental’s space, you may have to pick and choose what you are able to include.

Just know this: rocks and sand are a must.

Both are staples in a Zen garden, and failing to have them means you missed the mark.

Allocating a section for sand bordered by rocks is a wise move. Leave a rake in there so you can create ripples before your guests arrive. This will really impress them and establish the Zen atmosphere.

 

Color

A Zen garden does not require a ton of color, but including a touch of it is imperative. Do this with plants such as colored perennials mixed in with some white flowers and Japanese cherry blossoms.

If you cannot get your hands on the blossoms, find something similar to its color scheme here, as they still provide guests a Zen vibe.

 

Moss

Moss is key to making a Japanese garden distinct, and it also works great as a filler because it grows well in places other plants and flowers do not.

Ideally, you want it in the area guests come to find Zen, which leads us to the next item.

 

Bench

Guests can better admire the garden when provided proper furniture.

In this case, that is a bench.

Offering guests a bench allows them to embrace your Zen garden and reap the mental health benefits, such as undoing stress and finding the headspace to meditate.

Designating an area to bask in the peace and quiet will be well-received.

 

Bamboo

Bamboo drastically affects your garden, providing an authenticity difficult to achieve without it.

What works in your favor is you can implement it in more ways than one. Some Japanese gardens use it for fencing around plants, but if that is not your style, you can get a bamboo water feature.

Something like a rocking fountain enhances the vibe and soothes visitors as water flows through it. Watch this video to experience it yourself.

 

Planting Pillars

How welcoming would a pathway be with planting pillars leading guests towards the bench overlooking Japanese cherry blossoms?

Some even light up so guests can go find peace at night.

Place a few of these around to “wow” guests, but be careful, they may never want to leave.

 

Zen Out

Ensuring your property stands out and paying attention to guests’ wellness are two factors you must consider when making any improvements.

Lucky for you, a Zen garden checks both boxes.

Check out these for some inspiration, and have fun with this!

After all, it is the best way to experience Japan until we go visit!