Writing Guidebooks About Japanese Gardens
Since I began exploring the many gardens and parks in and around Tokyo, I always dreamed of writing a book about my tours and sharing lesser-known sights.
With Real Japanese Gardens eBooks, this dream is now within reach, as I can finally write about my beloved gardens. However, I quickly realised that writing a blog and writing a guidebook are two very different tasks. A guidebook needs to sell, so I had to consider what readers really want to see, which pictures would attract them, and what information would be useful.
There are already countless books about Japanese gardens. Most Japan guidebooks contain short introductions to the most famous gardens, and many gardens hand out pamphlets with basic overviews and scenic highlights. My goal, however, is different: I do not want to repeat the same information. I want to introduce new perspectives.
Each guidebook should accompany visitors along the typical route through the garden, pointing out unique features they might otherwise miss. I combine details from pamphlets, websites, and books in several languages into one clear, practical guide.
The process of writing a new Japanese garden eBook
When I researched Asakura Chosokan, for example, almost all information was only available in Japanese. This shows how much work goes into even a small 12-page guidebook.
First, I check our photo stock, review our introductions, and read pamphlets, official websites, and Wikipedia articles in multiple languages. This helps me create an outline of dates and facts. Next, I search for sources that are not easily accessible. I browse Japanese websites for hints, consult books in three languages, and, whenever possible, revisit the garden to take pictures and ask questions to the staff. Normally, I have visited a garden at least once before starting a guidebook, so I can convey the real feeling it gives visitors.
Once I have my notes, I begin drafting. After the first draft, I refine the English and double-check every fact. Accuracy is essential, as information can vary widely between different language sources. During breaks, I select photos to include or look for additional images with the right copyright permissions. This part can be challenging, as I often have a specific picture in mind.
Finally, I bring everything into our book format. I arrange text and images, edit the side boxes, and make sure each page looks balanced and clear. When all is complete, the eBook is ready.
The result
Every Real Japanese Gardens eBook offers visitors all the practical information they need for exploring a garden, along with fresh insights and details that might surprise even repeat visitors.
Enjoy reading — and happy exploring!
Examples for our eBooks
Saihō-ji Garden Guide
This eBook explores the history, symbolism, and design of Saihō-ji, Kyoto’s celebrated Moss Temple.
Perfect for garden lovers, Zen enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.
Learn more before you visit—or revisit from home.
Stone Arrangements in the Japanese Garden
Stone Arrangement in the Japanese Garden introduces foundational layout styles and visual rules through clear examples. Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Moss in the Japanese Garden
This book explores the role of moss in Japanese garden design. This guide explains why moss grows so well in Japan and how it contributes to the visual and environmental character of gardens. Learn how its unique biology, low maintenance, and natural beauty make moss in Japanese gardens a timeless and essential feature.
With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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