Miniature Zen Garden Workshop
- Evelyn HO
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 2
According to the Sakuteiki, the oldest published Japanese text on garden planning during Heian era (794-1185), Zen rock gardens or karesansui (dry landscape) had long been found in Japan, with their style heavily influenced by China. Rocks in the gardens of China symbolize mountains from the civilization's ancient mythology. And although the early Zen temple gardens followed this blueprint, Japan had created its own style of Zen rock gardens in the 14th and 15th centuries by eminent monk, poet and calligrapher, specifically designed to aid contemplative thought and meditation. As with other forms of Zen art, the image created by a rock garden is deliberately incomplete to let the viewer to make it whole. The uneven spacing between the rocks and its asymmetrical patterns are some of the crucial elements in creating a Zen rock garden.
Mini-Zen gardens, inspired by ancient Zen Buddhism and Zen rock garden, offer a meditative and relaxing experience through sand manipulation and design creation. The miniature version is essentially a wooden tray covered with white sand, smooth stones with miniature rakes and tools to manipulate the sand. Cancer survivors, elderly and people who are physically not able to go hiking could find peace and relaxation on connecting with the white sand and the mini garden.
In the months of hot and humid weather, why not join me in this unique workshop, you'll also cover the theory behind this revered Japanese art form. We provide all the materials needed, even including a live mini bonsai of Hinoki cypress or Japanese maple that will be the centrepiece of your garden. In the end, you'll get to take home your creation (in a box). The workshop begins with site visit to the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens and then move indoor for the creation part while enjoying a cup of coffee. Limited to 4 seats only. Upcoming schedule on 6&7 September 2025 at 09:00-12:00 or 14:00-17:00. Please contact info@bodhiforestglobal.com for details.

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