1. Shakkei — borrowed scenery
Distant mountains, a neighbour's old tree, a slice of sky. Framing what already exists outside the plot is where Japanese garden design begins. Costs nothing; transforms everything.
2. Tsuboniwa — 3–5 m² is enough
Even on a tight urban lot, a 3–5 m² courtyard tucked beside the entrance or between rooms delivers light and green to the heart of the house. Glaze it on three sides and treat it as an extension of the living space.
3. Karesansui — near-zero maintenance
White gravel, moss, stone groupings. With almost no plants, no watering or pruning is required — ideal for owners who travel. Rake the gravel patterns monthly and the landscape renews itself.
4. Indoor-outdoor continuity
The engawa verandah, deep eaves, full-pocket sliding doors. Open the joinery and the garden becomes part of the living room. Floor-level differences stay under 10 mm to keep the line continuous.
5. Maintenance, honestly
Full garden: JPY 300–500K/yr. Courtyard: JPY 50–100K/yr. Dry garden: JPY 10–30K/yr. Decide before you build — gardens are a contract with the future.
The quality of a garden is set by the line of sight, not by area. A 3 m² courtyard often outperforms a 30 m² mediocre one.