Popular Japanese designer returns to RHS Chelsea

Over the years, the gardens of designer Kazuyuki Ishihara have become increasingly popular and eagerly awaited at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Each year he has featured a garden at Chelsea, show visitors have been stunned by the sheer beauty and creativity of his designs.

Needless to say, he has been awarded multiple RHS Gold Medals over the years and I am sure that the 2023 RHS Chelsea Flower Show will prove no exception to his award winning talents.

‘The Biophilic Garden Otsu – Hanare‘ entered in the Sanctuary Category, has been created with a biophilic concept. Visitors to the garden can feel a direct connection with nature while spending time inside the hanare which acts as a place of healing and calming.

Light and shade pour in through the lattice work that symbolises traditional Japanese culture while the random sounds of a waterfall surround the hanare. As the designer points out, busy lives make us forget the importance of believing in ourselves and knowing who we are and so the Biophilic Garden Otsu excludes and pares down life’s clutter allowing us to accept the past, live in the present and to look forward.

(Above: 2019 Gold Medal winning design: Green Switch)

For the 2023 garden, look out for Japanese satoyama woodland plants such as acer, pine and mosses. The waterside will use watercress, iris and natural materials that are deeply involved in the spirit of Zen forming a solid base for our spiritual lives.

Credits: Banner design above ©Kazuyuki Ishihara, 2019 garden ©EmmaCampbell Photography/Reckless Gardener