Watch Gardens of the World: A Japanese Garden in Belgium

Gardens of the World: A Japanese Garden in Belgium is a documentary about a beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden located in Hasselt, Belgium. The film takes viewers on a journey through the history and culture of Japanese gardens and the challenges faced in creating and maintaining a traditional garden in Europe. The documentary begins with an introduction to the principles of Japanese gardens, which are designed to represent a miniature version of nature. The garden in Hasselt, which was created by the Japanese landscape architect, Takeshi Savita, adheres to these principles and is a true representation of Japanese culture in Europe.

The film then explores the history of Japanese gardens, from their origins in the 6th century to their evolution over the centuries. The documentary explains how Japanese gardens have been influenced by Zen Buddhism, which stresses the importance of simplicity, harmony, and tranquility. The filmmaker then takes us to the garden in Belgium to see how these principles are applied.

The garden in Hasselt is situated on a site that was previously a landfill. The documentary shows how Savita transformed the site using traditional Japanese elements such as water, rocks, sand, and plants. The garden also contains several structures such as teahouses, bridges, and lanterns, which are all designed to enhance the visitor's experience and create a sense of zen.

The documentary also explores the challenges of creating and maintaining a Japanese garden in Europe. One of the challenges is the difference in climate and vegetation which are vastly different from Japan. The filmmaker shows how the gardeners in Hasselt have adapted to the European climate while still maintaining the traditional Japanese elements of the garden.

Throughout the film, there are interviews with both Savita and the gardeners who have been maintaining the garden for years. These interviews offer a glimpse into the passion and dedication of those involved in creating and maintaining this peaceful oasis in the city. They share their insights and knowledge on the history and culture of Japanese gardens and their techniques for keeping the garden looking beautiful and well-cared for.

The documentary also highlights the importance of Japanese gardens as a cultural and artistic expression. The gardens are not only beautiful but they also offer a place where one can find solitude and inner peace. They are a reminder of the importance of harmony, balance, and simplicity in our busy lives.

Overall, Gardens of the World: A Japanese Garden in Belgium is an incredibly insightful and beautiful documentary that delves into the world of Japanese gardens. The film offers an excellent overview of the history and culture of Japanese gardens, while also highlighting the challenges of creating and maintaining one in a different climate. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in Japanese culture and art or for those who simply want to learn more about the beauty of gardens.