Exploring Japan’s oases of calm

In Japan, you can find sanctuaries celebrating the beauty of nature amid towering buildings. Many flock to Zen gardens and pet-focused gardens, in particular, as these are serene spaces where one can find some peace and quiet despite the frenzy of the city.

Zen gardens, after all, emulate the concept of Zen, which is attributed to a sense of calmness and mindfulness. Pet-focused parks meanwhile similarly communicate an idea of peace with nature, with pets running and playing freely.

If you are planning to visit one of these parks on your next trip to Japan, here are a few to consider.

Sekai no Meiken Bokujo

Gunma

Also called a “communication park for dogs and people,” Sekai no Meiken Bokujo offers a quaint community area where dogs and people can bond together and with each other.

According to its website, Sekai also has two separate park areas—one for small dogs, and one for medium and large dogs. Pools are also provided in both parks for dogs to use. A “dog cafe” is also available for owners and pets alike, with a special ‘dog menu’ provided.

Koganei Park-Dog Run

Tokyo

Koganei Park, one of the largest parks in Tokyo, also comes with a specific “dog run” area for your furry friend to enjoy. Amid its famed cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring, your pets can take in the sights and sounds of this natural wonderland by your side.

According to Japan Travel by Navitime, the dog park section consists of an area for small dogs, an area for medium and large dogs, and a zone where dogs of all sizes can play. Visitors must first register at the Koganei Park Service Center to be able to use the park, after which, it is free to use. Dogs must also be on a leash.

Tsukuba WanWan Land

Ibaraki

Found in Ibaraki prefecture, this park is a wonderland for dogs and dog lovers alike. This park lets you interact with over 80 breeds and also offers a “dog rental” service that lets you play with a dog of your choice for 20 minutes. You can also enjoy events such as dog shows.

While the park is open to visitors and dogs of all ages, note that unvaccinated dogs and dogs in heat are not permitted to enter. Visitors are also cautioned by the park’s official website to keep their own dogs on a leash and keep them from getting too close to other dogs.

Ryoanji Temple

Kyoto

When it comes to zen gardens and temples, Ryoanji Temple is a good place to start. The site was converted to a zen temple in 1450 and is now famed for its rock garden. Set atop a vast expanse of white sand and small patches of moss are fifteen stones, cleverly and intricately arranged so that one rock is always hidden from view regardless of where the visitor stands.

To this day, the meaning of this famous garden remains a mystery.

Banryu-tei Rock Garden

Wakayama

Stationed on Mt. Koya is the famed Banryu-tei Rock Garden, the largest dry rock garden in Japan. The garden, which was completed in 1984, features over 140 naturally formed granite rocks. The rocks placed on their beds of white sand are said to represent a pair of guardian dragons that emerge from the clouds.

Mt. Koya also features other beautiful gardens for visitors’ perusal, which can be enjoyed from temple stays at 51 temples in the area.

Konchiin Temple Gardens

Kyoto

Situated in Kyoto is the peaceful Konchiin temple that houses a complex zen garden. Informally known as the “crane and turtle garden,” this garden features a wide sea of white sand, blooming greenery, and strategically placed rocks under the bright sky.

The two ‘islands’ are placed at a distance, creating the illusion of a crane and tortoise facing each other.

Visitors can view this fascinating layout by standing inside the central hall of the temple.

Sources: BBC, chicagobotanic.org, japan-experience.com, meiken-bokujou.com, en.japantravel.com, japantravel.navitime.com, kanpai-japan.com, gltjp.com, wanwan-land.co.jp, Japan.travel, visit.ibarakiguide.jp, japan-guide.com, tripadvisor.com