The Japanese Gardens represent the masterwork and also the last piece signed by Kenzo Ogata, Japan’s leading traditional gardens designer. If you’re an avid fan of the Japanese culture and of the outdoors, then you’re in for a treat. Although their design is faithful with the traditional concept of the Japanese Gardens, the ones in Brisbane include numerous Australian flowers, shrubs and trees as well.
Why you should visit the Japanese Garden
The main theme of the gardens is the mountain-pond-stream (tsuki-yama-chisen). Incorporating key elements water, stone and vegetation that the Japanese Gardens of Brisbane have a path design shaped as the letter S to conceal the upcoming sections from those who strolling through the park. Visitors should expect to be impressed by the ever-present aura of mystery.
Perhaps the most impressive element of the Japanese Gardens is the stone ‘water bowl’ (tsukabai). The allure of the stone doesn’t only stem from its age it’s over 100 years old but also from its function: the stone is in place to ensure a constant flow of water, which is used in the purification ritual taking place before the tea ceremony.
In the event you traveling to Brisbane in September, then you’re in luck; the garden is hosting the annual Japan Cultural Festival this time of year. The event depicts the Japanese tea ceremony and features amazing calligraphy and ikebana flowers displays.
Opening hours and prices
You can visit the Japanese Garden every day of the year between 8 am and 5 pm, from April to August. If you decide to visit Brisbane, Australia between September and March, then you can check out the gardens between 8 am and 5:30 pm. Those who manage to get there between 11 am and 1 pm can take advantage of the free guided tours.
Entry to this magnificent site along with others included in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens is free. On a side note, if you’re travelling with your pet, remember that dogs are not allowed.
Location and travelling there
The Japanese Garden is part of the Brisbane Botanical Gardens and is located at Mt. Coot-Tha Road, Toowong, Brisbane, Queensland. You can get to this location by taking the 471 bus from the corner of Albert Street and Adelaide. If you decide to come by car, then you should know that parking is available. When the parking lot is full, you are allowed to leave your vehicle across the road.
We can arrange group transport of any size through our Brisbane bus hire services to the Japanese Garden, please call or send us an email for more information.
Who designed the Japanese Garden in Brisbane?
The Japanese Garden was designed by Kenzo Ogata, a renowned Japanese landscape designer. The blog describes it as his masterwork and last piece, incorporating both traditional Japanese design concepts and Australian native plants.
What are the opening hours and is there an entry fee?
The garden is open every day. Hours vary by season: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April to August, and 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from September to March. Entry to the Japanese Garden and the entire Brisbane Botanic Gardens is free.
What can visitors expect to see in the garden?
The garden is designed with a mountain-pond-stream theme and features a path shaped like the letter “S” to create an aura of mystery. It also has a 100-year-old stone “water bowl” used in traditional purification rituals.
Can I get to the garden by public transport?
Yes, you can get to the Japanese Garden by public transport. The blog states that you can take the 471 bus from the corner of Albert Street and Adelaide to reach the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt. Coot-tha.
