Show Notes
Welcome to the NAJGA Official Podcast, the ultimate resource for Japanese garden enthusiasts. The official podcast of the North American Japanese Garden Association (NAJGA) explores the art, craft, and heart of Japanese garden design. Join Shayna as she engages in unscripted conversations with experts and enthusiasts about everything related to Japanese gardens.
In this episode, Shayna sits down with John Powell, an experienced Japanese landscape gardener who has built and maintained Japanese tea gardens across America. They dive into the world of tea gardens, discussing the challenges and joys of sharing Japanese tea gardens with guests of all knowledge levels in North America. The conversation delves into the delicate balance between form and function in Japanese garden design, highlighting the unique aesthetic and practical considerations that shape tea gardens.
As they explore the challenges posed by varying climates and available materials in North America, John offers insights into adapting traditional design principles to suit local environments. They discuss the importance of introducing guests to the immersive experience of a tea garden, fostering engagement with all five senses. The conversation also touches on the intersection of tea ceremony practices and garden design, revealing how each element complements the other in creating a holistic experience.
Join Shayna and John on this illuminating journey through the world of Japanese tea gardens. Discover the intricate nuances of design, the significance of cultural context, and the ways in which these tranquil spaces invite visitors to engage with nature, aesthetics, and tradition.
To explore more Japanese garden insights, resources, and engage with the community, visit the NAJGA website at www.najga.org and follow us on social media. And remember, becoming an NAJGA member not only supports the community but also offers you exclusive benefits and access to a wealth of knowledge in the world of Japanese garden design. Happy Japanese gardening!
More from The NAJGA Japanese Garden Podcast
In this episode of the NAJGA Podcast, host Tim Gruner sits down with Greg Afman of Rettig Garden Fostering and Stewardship at Anderson Japanese Gardens for a wide-ranging conversation about the experiences, ideas, and philosophies that have shaped his approach to Japanese gardens.
We’re excited to announce a new NAJGA podcast episode featuring a special conversation with three NAJGA Presidents: Benjamin Chu (current president), Jeanette Schelin (past president), and Michelle Day-Miles (incoming president). In this thoughtful roundtable, our presidents reflect on their personal journeys with NAJGA and explore the organization’s evolving priorities—from governance and fundraising to community engagement and the future of NAJGA. Together, they share insights on accomplishments, challenges, and hopes for the next five years, offering a deeper understanding of how NAJGA is stewarding its mission forward. Whether you’re a longtime member or simply passionate about Japanese gardens, this episode offers an inspiring look at leadership, collaboration, and purpose.
In this edition of the NAJGA Podcast, host Ben Chu—NAJGA President and Horticultural Manager at the Missouri Botanical Garden—offers a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming 7th NAJGA International Japanese Garden Conference, taking place October 15–18 at MoBot. Joining him are three special guests: Dr. Kendall Brown, Professor of Asian Art History at CSU Long Beach, founding NAJGA member, and past president
Learn more about our guests and see pictures of Amache at: najga.org/amache
Check out our final podcast of 2024, an interview with renowned Garden Designer, Hoichi Kurisu and his daughter, Michiko Kurisu. Hoichi Kurisu is President and Founder of Kurisu LLC. He has been designing and building gardens for nearly 50 years. His daughter, Michiko, is a NAJGA Board Member and Project Coordinator and Public Relations at Kurisu LLC. The podcast is hosted by Steven Pitsenbarger, Garden Supervisor at the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco. You can learn more about Mr. Kurisu and his company, Kurisu International, at kurisu.com