Japanese garden of Kadriorg Park
Status: completed
Location: Tallinn
Project date:
Project team: Masao Sone, Kersti Lootus, Ivi Vartsen, Siim Lootus
Client: Kadriorg Park Authority
Builder: Terrat AS
Volume: ~ 2 ha
Photos by: Maris Tomba and Erik Pärn.
The establishment of the Japanese garden of Kadriorg Park was undertaken due to the need to tidy up the surroundings of Hundikuristik and Kirdetiik in the farthest corner of the park and to offer visitors something exceptional in this part of the park. We were lucky to invite Masao Sone, an acknowledged Kyoto landscape architect, to take on the project, who, inspired by the location, put together the concept of the garden and prepared the designs for all the elements. In cooperation with Lootusprojekt, the design of the Japanese garden of Kadriorg was prepared. Engaging an expert was unavoidable because the goal was to create a true Japanese garden rather than a Japanese-style garden.
The Japanese garden of Kadriorg is characterised by traditional features such as closeness to nature, minimalism and simplicity, and it includes all the important elements such as rocks, sand and gravel, bridges and vegetation, offering beautiful sights throughout the year. The designer has thought through the design so that the beauty of blossoms and colours can be enjoyed in every season all year round. The chosen trees and bushes express in the best way the changing of seasons. All of this was achieved, although several plants characteristic to a Japanese garden had to be abandoned and replaced with plants that better suit the local volatile and tough weather conditions.
Winding trails around the pond and traditionally decorated bridges across channels allow for meditative strolls in this environment along the pathways; you can leave these here and there and go off the path and step on flat stones that take you around plants. Rocks have a very important role to play in a Japanese garden and the designer found inspiration on their placement in Kadriorg garden from the rooftops of the Old Town of Tallinn.
Japanese gardens are meant for tranquil strolls, contemplation, enjoying nature and meditation – therefore, there are no benches. Also, there is no lighting and riding a bicycle and walking pets are not allowed in a Japanese garden.
All Your questions are more than welcome. We will respond as quicly as possible.
