Elements of Japanese Gardens: Part 1, pathways.
A client recently asked me to design a section of their garden that captures the feeling and elements of a Japanese garden. This wonderful challenge led me to the Portland Japanese Garden for research and inspiration. Entrance to Portland Japanese Garden, October 2025 It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of peak maple season, but I tried to stay focused on the details—paths, patios, fences, gates, stone lanterns, and water features. While my photography skills and equipment can hardly do justice to such stunning scenery, I hope my photos will still help illustrate some practical garden ideas and design techniques. Pathways A Japanese garden path is a work of art. The regularity of the stone path is contrasted with curvy and whimsical effect of embedded tiles. A combination of flagstones and smaller rocks is both organic and ordered. Japanese garden pathways can range from carefully composed and precise to loose, uneven, and even a bit treacherous underfoot. Large bou...