This garden, created in 1994 at the request of Prince Rainier
III in accordance with the strictest principles of Zen design by landscape
architect Yasuo Beppu (winner of the Grand Prix at the Osaka Flower Expo in
1990), transports visitors to the land of the rising sun, without having to
leave the Principality.
Visitors will find all the essential components of a typical Japanese garden,
including a pond, islands, a waterfall, lanterns, bridges, a tea house and a
Zen garden.
This green oasis is a rich mix of Japanese tradition and Mediterranean
touches, the result of close collaboration between gardeners from Monaco and
Japan. The bamboo hedges, tiles (Awaji
Island), stone lanterns, and the varieties of wood used in the structures
(gate, tea house, etc.) were all imported from Japan, while the plants, all
Mediterranean (pine, olive and pomegranate trees), were pruned and cultivated
by Mr Beppu for three years in the Japanese style.
The blocks of stone which form the waterfall come from Corsica, Auvergne
and the Tinée Valley, and all were selected on site before being installed
according to a precise plan. Those who
find their interest piqued can learn more about Japanese traditions from
explanatory panels located close to each noteworthy feature.
A pond at the foot of the pavilion provides an opportunity to admire a
collection of koi carp, swimming peacefully among the water lilies and lotus
flowers.
Every year, Mr Beppu comes especially from Japan to pass on his
knowledge and give advice to the gardeners about caring for the plants.
Free admission.
Opening times: 9 am to 5.45 pm (or 6.45 pm, depending on the season)
Garden eco-certified by standards body “ECOCERT"
Accessibility: most of the garden is accessible for wheelchair users.
Photo credits:
©Benjamin Vergély