Practical Tips for a Jodo Garden Construction

A Jōdo garden symbolizes Amida Buddha’s Western Paradise:

• Pond = the ocean separating this world from enlightenment

• Island / central stone = Pure Land

• Bridge or stepping stones = the path to enlightenment

• Symmetry and openness = spiritual clarity

For a small garden, we suggest a viewing garden rather than a walking one.

Step 1: Plan the Layout (3 × 4 m)

Best orientation: View the garden from the east, with the symbolic “Pure Land” to the west.

Suggested layout:

• Central pond: approx. 1.8 × 1.2 m

• Island or main stone: centered in or just beyond the pond

• Bridge or stepping stones: crossing part of the pond

• Surrounding planting: low and restrained

Sketch first—avoid filling every space.

Step 2: Create the Pond (Key Element)

• Use a pre-formed pond liner or flexible liner

• Depth: 30–45 cm (safe and sufficient for plants)

• Shape: soft, natural curves (no sharp edges)

Water meaning: purity, rebirth, and reflection.

Optional:

• Small water basin or gentle trickle (very subtle)

Step 3: Place Stones (Most Important Design Rule)

Use odd numbers of stones (3, 5, or 7).

Essential stones:

1. Central vertical stone (Amida Buddha symbol)

2. Two supporting stones beside or near the pond

3. Flat stepping stones (natural, irregular)

Rules:

• Bury ⅓ of each stone so it looks natural

• Stones should “lean” slightly inward

• Avoid symmetry that feels rigid

 Step 4: Add a Bridge or Path

In a small garden:

• Use 2–3 stepping stones across the pond
  or

• A simple wooden bridge

This represents the journey to the Pure Land.

Step 5: Planting (Minimal and Symbolic)

Keep plants low and restrained.

Ideal plants for small Jōdo gardens:

• Japanese maple (dwarf variety) – impermanence

• Moss or moss-like ground cover – age and calm

• Iris (near pond) – purity

• Fern – humility

• Evergreen shrubs (azalea, box, or yew) – eternity

Avoid:

• Bright flowers everywhere

• Tall grasses that block views

Step 6: Lantern or Sacred Marker (Optional)

• Use one stone lantern near (not in) the pond

• Or a simple upright stone instead

Less is more.

 Step 7: Viewing Point (Very Important)

A Jōdo garden is meant to be contemplated.

• Place a bench or veranda edge at one side

• The best view should show:

  • Pond

  • Central stone/island

  • Bridge or stepping stones

 Step 8: Maintenance as Practice

• Skim pond weekly

• Trim plants lightly (never aggressively)

• Remove fallen leaves promptly

• Let moss and age develop naturally

Final Design Principle

“Not nature as it is, but nature as it is remembered.”