This garden,
created in 1994 at the request of Prince Rainier III in accordance with the
strictest principles of Zen design by landscape architect Yasuo Beppu (Grand
Prix at the Osaka Flower Exhibition in 1990), transports visitors to the land
of the rising sun, even as they remain in the Principality.
Those who
take a stroll through the gardens will be able to discover all the essential
components of a Japanese garden: a pond, islands, a waterfall, lanterns,
bridges, a tea house and a Zen garden.
This green
oasis is a rich mix of Japanese tradition and Mediterranean touches, the result
of close collaboration between gardeners from Monaco and Japan. The bamboo
hedges, tiles (Awaji Island), stone lanterns, and the woods used in the various
structures (gate, tea house, etc.) were all imported from Japan, while the
plants, all Mediterranean (pine, olive and pomegranate trees), were pruned and
looked after by Mr Beppu for three years to give them a Japanese appearance.
The blocks
of stone which form the waterfall come from Corsica, Auvergne and the Tinée
Valley, and all were selected on site before being installed according to a
precise plan. Those who find their interest piqued can learn more about
Japanese traditions from explanatory panels located close to each noteworthy
feature.
A pond
situated at the foot of the pavilion provides an opportunity to admire a
collection of koi carp, swimming peacefully among the water lilies and lotus
flowers.
Every year,
Mr Beppu comes especially from Japan to pass on his knowledge and give advice
to the gardeners about looking after the plants.
Free entry.
Opening hours: 9 am to 5.45 pm or
6.45 pm (depending on season)
The garden has been awarded the EVE
certification by ECOCERT
Accessibility: the majority of the garden is
accessible