Japan: Shirotori Garden, Nagoya's Oasis of the White Bird

Olivier
May 9
5 min read

Shirotori Garden (白鳥庭園), located in the heart of Nagoya, is a serene and beautifully crafted traditional garden that spans 3.7 hectares. It is one of the largest gardens in the Tokai region and is designed to reflect the natural landscapes of the Chubu region, with a strong emphasis on water as its central theme.

Japan: Shirotori Garden, Nagoya's Oasis of the White Bird

© O. Robert

Shirotori Garden is a place to experience the tranquility and beauty of traditional Japanese landscaping. Whether you are a nature lover, a landscape photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Shirotori Garden offers a memorable and enriching experience.

The garden's name, "Shirotori (白鳥)" which means "White Bird", is derived from the nearby Shirotori Tomb, a legendary site associated with the mythical figure Yamato Takeru. Despite its relatively recent construction, it is also one of the most beautiful gardens in the region for landscape photography. The presence of vast expanses of water and traditional scenes from the art of Japanese gardens contrasts with the city's modern buildings in the background.

© O. Robert

In this article, which is a bit shorter than the previous ones, I would like to focus on a garden that is still relatively unknown and is a personal favorite. Although it does not have as long a history as the other gardens I have discussed on this blog, Shirotori Garden contains all the elements of traditional Japanese gardens. The maturity of its landscapes, its layout, and its various pavilions can easily deceive visitors who are unaware of its creation date.

Let's take a visual stop in Nagoya, a city often overlooked by tourists (not that anyone here would complain) and which I am fortunate to know well since it is my wife's hometown.

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Origin of the Garden

Shirotori Garden was established to provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life of Nagoya. It opened to the public in 1992 and has since become a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Its creation was likely part of urban planning initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting traditional Japanese culture and landscaping techniques.

The garden is designed to represent the natural beauty of the surrounding Nagoya and Aichi prefecture, incorporating elements such as streams, ponds, and hills that mimic the Kiso River and Mount Ontake.

© O. Robert

Characteristics of the Garden

Shirotori Garden includes various features such as winding paths, wooden bridges, and picturesque waterfalls. These elements are meticulously arranged to create a serene and tranquil environment, inviting visitors to stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature. Here are several key features:

Ponds and Streams

The central pond replicates the Kiso River, flowing into the large sea of Ise Bay. The ponds are connected by streams and surrounded by immaculately tended trees and shrubs, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment. Many pavilions dot the path around the ponds, allowing visitors to contemplate the garden from various viewpoints throughout the seasons.

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Bridges and Paths

Winding paths and charming wooden bridges also allow visitors to explore the garden's various sections. These paths are flat and accessible, making it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy the garden's beauty. Although they appear rather contemporary, these bridges retain the typical architectural structure of the wooden bridges of ancient Japan.

© O. Robert

Teahouses

The garden features traditional teahouses where visitors can participate in Japanese tea ceremonies. The Seiut-ei teahouse, in particular, is a notable structure that combines Kyoto Sukiya and local Owari construction styles. It is designed to resemble a swan in flight, with different sections representing the head, neck, and body of the bird.

© O. Robert

For example, the tearoom represents the head of the swan, connected by a bridge symbolizing the neck, which leads to another tearoom representing the body of the swan. This creative design adds a layer of artistic and cultural depth to the garden.

© O. Robert

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Shioiri no Kei

The Shioiri no Kei is a garden where you can enjoy the changing scenery with the ebb and flow of the tides. In this artificial pond, the gardeners have expressed traditional garden designs with modern sensibilities and techniques. This tidal garden has two different aspects. One is the serene seaside view with its repeated ebb and flow. The other is a fountain that mimics waves crashing against the rocks.

© O. Robert

There's no need to mention here that it is a highly symbolic and philosophical representation. Its understanding may not be as immediate as the gardeners intended. However, the creative effort deserves to be commended. For example, you can observe the play of artificial tides from the teahouse while enjoying excellent teas and traditional pastries. It's a break that I highly recommend.

© O. Robert

Seasonal Beauty

Shirotori Garden is beautiful year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. In spring, cherry blossoms create a breathtaking scene while summer brings lush and fresh greenery. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage, providing a stunning backdrop for photographs. Winter occasionally (rarely) offers a serene, snow-covered landscape.

Additionally, the garden hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Festival of the Art of Light in December, where visitors can enjoy illuminated nightscapes.