Author: Adriel S., Design Staff I

(From left to right: Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto; Himeji Park, Himeji; Korakuen Garden, Okayama; Himeji Park, Himeij)

Being in Japan was a surreal experience. Seeing both sides, the landscape and cityscape of Japan has made an impact on the way I process design. Every piece of material, whether its man-made or natural, has a purpose in the landscape and I believe that’s one of the reasons why their design techniques have lasted through the ages. No open space is left unused. The placement stones and shrubs have a deep meaning in the Japanese landscape. Through the placement of these materials, the garden tells of story of its location and its surrounding landscape. These were some of the most beautiful gardens I’ve ever seen.

(From left to right: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo; Hamarikyu Garden, Tokyo; Fujinomiya)

In the city, the space between buildings is limited yet people find a way of making use of this limited space.  These modern design techniques were definitely something I took into consideration when I was walking around the city. There seems to be a perfect balance between these structures and the landscape around them. Since the majority of cities in Japan are walkable, it was really easy for us to experience these spaces on a personal level. My perception of a landscape in a small space has changed for the better. Traveling to Japan has made an impact on how I approach design and space.