Infinite Spaces

Based on classical Japanese writings, this Zen gardening book is full of insightful commentary and lush photographs.

Japanese gardens have long been admired for their capacity to improve on nature through impeccable design, detail, and composition: properties that elevate them from mere gardens to sacred spaces. The Sakuteiki, literally "notes on garden design," by the eleventh-century courtier and poet Tachibana no Toshitsuna laid out the original principles that shaped the design of these gardens. A distillation of centuries of garden design, the Sakuteiki remains a vital influence for garden makers in Japan today.

Infinite Spaces pairs extracts from the Sakuteiki with inspiring images that beautifully illustrate the principles of this ancient work. Sadao Hibi's superb photographs capture some of Japan's best-known gardens—from austere compositions in stone and gravel to richly planted landscapes. The photographs express the extraordinary beauty and diversity of one of the world's most ancient and revered styles of gardening. Discover a treasure trove of practical advice and philosophical insight on building and maintaining pools, lakes, and streams; arranging stones for the most natural and harmonious effect; and designing water features and placing stones to welcome auspicious deities while excluding malevolent influences.

Japanese gardening topics include:

• Principles of Garden Design
• Pools and Lakes
• Waterfalls
• Streams
• Trees and Mounds
• Good and Evil
• Stones

This timeless visual artistry of the gardens and the specific design techniques will inspire you to create magnificent garden sanctuaries in your own backyard.

Joe Earle is the Former Keeper of the Far Eastern Department of London's Victoria and Albert Museum and has published extensively on traditional and contemporary Japanese art and culture.