In the historic Old Zoo of Poznań a Japanese Garden of Imagination is taking shape. This unique space, which won the hearts of the community through the 2024 Poznań Civic Budget, promises to blend nature, culture, and architecture into one harmonious environment. Inspired by similar gardens in cities like Wrocław, Berlin, Tallinn, and San Francisco, the garden will serve as a tranquil spot for reflection, conversation, and relaxation. It’s designed to be an urban oasis that nurtures both the environment and the spirit.
The Idea Behind the Project
The idea to create a Japanese garden in Poznań came from a fusion of inspirations and observations. The project’s initiators saw a need for more urban spaces that delicately balance environmental beauty with cultural sophistication. The location of the Old Zoo, a historical green enclave in the heart of the city, presents the perfect backdrop for this vision. Poznań is a city that has undergone rapid, sometimes overwhelming, development, and the creators of the garden want to introduce a space that promotes slow, peaceful growth — key characteristics of traditional Japanese gardens.
Our goal is to create a space where people can escape the fast pace of city life and find a moment of peace. The Japanese Garden of Imagination will be a place for reflection and connection with nature, something that’s becoming increasingly rare in urban environments.
As one of the project leaders remarked.
Key Features of a Japanese Garden
One of the most distinctive aspects of a Japanese garden is its careful use of natural elements to create a serene and symbolic landscape. The Japanese Garden of Imagination will feature meticulously arranged plants, water, and stone, all central to the design of a classic Japanese garden.
- Water: Bringing Life and Movement
Water is a crucial feature of this garden, symbolising life and energy. Flowing streams will meander through the garden, bringing a sense of movement and vitality. The sound of gently trickling water will create a peaceful ambiance, helping visitors feel connected to nature. Each water feature will be precisely designed to achieve the perfect balance between sound and visual aesthetics.
- Stone: Symbolising Permanence
Stones in a Japanese garden represent the unchanging nature of the world, symbolising stability and endurance. Carefully chosen and placed stones will form pathways, borders, and visual focal points. Some stones might even be chosen for their symbolic meanings — flat stones in water often represent turtles, while upright stones can symbolise cranes.
- Minimalistic Flora: A Harmony of Greens
While Japanese gardens are known for their minimalist use of flowers, the careful selection of plants will ensure a rich variety of green tones. Flowers will be used sparingly, only as delicate accents to the overall design. The emphasis will be on calm, flowing shapes, with each plant carefully chosen to fit the aesthetic and spiritual qualities of the garden.
A Place for Everyone
The garden will be open to all, from local residents to visitors and tourists. Whether someone is looking for a peaceful retreat from the bustling city or a place to contemplate in nature, the garden will offer a unique and inclusive space. In line with Japanese garden traditions, it will develop and evolve slowly over time, growing harmoniously with its surroundings and the people who visit.
The Importance of the Project
The Japanese Garden of Imagination is more than just a beautiful space — it’s a statement about Poznań’s dedication to creating meaningful, culturally rich public spaces. As cities continue to grow and change, projects like this remind us of the importance of calm, reflective environments. By blending elements of Japanese culture with Poznań’s natural landscape, the garden will offer something unique, making it a treasured part of the city’s identity.
A Green Vision for Poznań’s Future
As work on the Japanese Garden of Imagination continues, it’s set to become a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. This space will bring together nature, culture, and thoughtful design, creating a peaceful place for people to relax, reflect, and enjoy the unique beauty of the garden.
The project is already in progress, with documentation currently being prepared. Supported by the Green Budget, which aims to improve Poznań’s green spaces, the garden is expected to be completed as soon as possible. Once finished, it will offer a quiet retreat in the Old Zoo — showing how smart urban planning can improve both the environment and quality of life for everyone.
