I PLAN TO VISIT AGAIN IN JULY 2024
I last visited the gardens in July 2009 and they had not changed since I had visited them as a child. In 2009 the gardens were not as well maintained as they should be so I have decided to visit again in July 2024 to see if there have been any improvements.
The Japanese Gardens, within the grounds of the Irish National Stud just outside Kildare town, are a captivating testament to the enduring appeal of Japanese horticulture and design in Ireland. They were designed by Tassa Eida, a renowned Japanese horticulturalist, between 1906 and 1910 and are considered among the finest of their kind in Europe.
The gardens are a symbolic representation of the 'Life of Man,' featuring a meticulously curated landscape that unfolds as a journey through life's stages. While the gardens are undoubtedly Japanese in their essence, they also incorporate elements of Irish flora and landscape design, creating a unique fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics.
There isn't a specific historical relationship between Kildare and Japan that led to the creation of these gardens. Instead, their existence can be attributed to the vision and passion of Colonel William Hall Walker, a wealthy racehorse breeder who owned the stud in the early 20th century. Walker was captivated by Japanese culture and enlisted Eida's expertise to create this tranquil haven.
Today, the Irish National Stud still owns and operates the Japanese Gardens. Recognising the need for ongoing care and restoration, they have undertaken significant efforts to revitalise the gardens in recent years. These efforts have focused on restoring the original design intent, improving plant health, and enhancing visitor experience.
As my visit in 2009 left me with an impression of neglect, I have been guaranteed that I will likely be pleased to find that the gardens have seen considerable improvement since then. The paths have been repaved, the planting schemes refreshed, and a renewed sense of care and attention is evident throughout. The gardens now stand as a testament to both their original design and the ongoing dedication to preserving this unique cultural treasure.
The Japanese Gardens, within the grounds of the Irish National Stud just outside Kildare town, are a captivating testament to the enduring appeal of Japanese horticulture and design in Ireland. They were designed by Tassa Eida, a renowned Japanese horticulturalist, between 1906 and 1910 and are considered among the finest of their kind in Europe.
The gardens are a symbolic representation of the 'Life of Man,' featuring a meticulously curated landscape that unfolds as a journey through life's stages. While the gardens are undoubtedly Japanese in their essence, they also incorporate elements of Irish flora and landscape design, creating a unique fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics.
There isn't a specific historical relationship between Kildare and Japan that led to the creation of these gardens. Instead, their existence can be attributed to the vision and passion of Colonel William Hall Walker, a wealthy racehorse breeder who owned the stud in the early 20th century. Walker was captivated by Japanese culture and enlisted Eida's expertise to create this tranquil haven.
Today, the Irish National Stud still owns and operates the Japanese Gardens. Recognising the need for ongoing care and restoration, they have undertaken significant efforts to revitalise the gardens in recent years. These efforts have focused on restoring the original design intent, improving plant health, and enhancing visitor experience.
As my visit in 2009 left me with an impression of neglect, I have been guaranteed that I will likely be pleased to find that the gardens have seen considerable improvement since then. The paths have been repaved, the planting schemes refreshed, and a renewed sense of care and attention is evident throughout. The gardens now stand as a testament to both their original design and the ongoing dedication to preserving this unique cultural treasure.
I PLAN TO VISIT AGAIN IN JULY 2024