Gardens comprise a sensory as much as a cultural experience - a medium for artistic expression, a place to unwind, and a portal to the elemental and emotional. This book illustrates how original landscapes have maintained their mastery of time and made their principals central to any discussion about space and the environment. Author Stephen Mansfield takes readers on an exploration of the outward forms, underpinning principles, complex use of metaphor and allusion, and beauty and depth that set the Japanese garden apart. As a specialist in the field, Stephen has visited over two hundred gardens in Japan, written extensively on the topic, and designed a Japanese garden at his own home.

Author Biography

Stephen Mansfield, an author and freelance photojournalist based in Japan, has contributed to over 60 magazines, newspapers and journals worldwide. His books include Japanese Stone Gardens: Origins, Meaning, Form and Tokyo: A Cultural and Literary History. A specialist in the field, he has visited over two hundred gardens in Japan, written extensively on the topic and designed a Japanese garden of his own.