A Zen Monk’s Guide to the Best Gardens in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, is often seen as a city of constant motion—neon lights, bustling streets, and fast-paced modern life. Yet hidden within this urban energy are serene oases of calm— Japanese gardens that embody centuries of Zen philosophy, balance, and mindfulness. In this guide, we explore Tokyo’s most beautiful gardens through the eyes of a Zen monk , revealing not only the best places to visit but also how to experience them with true mindfulness. The Zen Philosophy of Japanese Gardens Before stepping into Tokyo’s gardens, it’s essential to understand what makes them unique. For centuries, Zen monks have viewed gardens as reflections of inner peace—a space where every rock, pond, and leaf is placed with intention. In Zen Buddhism , gardens are not just for beauty—they are tools for meditation. The arrangement of nature represents harmony, impermanence, and the quiet flow of life. Whether it’s the raked sand of a karesansui (dry landscape garden...