I never thought I’d feel the sensation of being back in Japan in rural Australia, but the Cowra Japanese Garden makes it possible!
It was a day when my two worlds collided – my life as a farm owner in Young and my relentless passion for Japanese culture. As the flags of Australia and Japan wave in the breeze, I’m reminded of the two nations I’ve been lucky enough to call home.
Having recently returned from a 3-year stint in Kyoto, I was already missing the life that I’d led over in the Land of the Rising Sun, until word came to me of a Japanese garden and culture centre in a rural town in Australia!
Australia’s Window to Japan!
The Cowra Japanese Garden is perhaps best described as Australia’s window to Japan. Featuring beautiful walkways that take you through marvelous Japanese-style gardens and koi fish ponds, I suddenly felt like I was right back in Kyoto!
Founded by Ken Nakajima in 1977, the Cowra Japanese Garden was built as a symbol of reconciliation between Australia and Japan post-WWII. This landmark honors the lives of the Japanese prisoners of war who were killed in 1944, a gesture that was supported by the citizens of Cowra to allow the spirits of the fallen to rest in peace.
A Harmonious Blend
What I love most about the Cowra Japanese Garden is how it brilliantly combines the natural Australian fauna with the Japanese landscape and garden aesthetic. Surrounding the koi pond are well-trimmed lawns featuring small and large bonsai made from local plants and gum trees. There may not be any pink cherry blossom trees, but I’d say the big purple jacaranda trees make for a fine replacement!
Beautiful Artworks
Inside the cultural centre is a variety of exhibitions showcasing the brilliant artistic side of Japanese culture. The walls are flooded with calligraphy portraits and ink paintings featuring famous Japanese castles, mythical dragons, and Japanese nature aesthetics. Within the glass box displays are interesting exhibits such as pots, vases, and a tengu mask (the angry face with the big red nose), which took me back to my journey from Kurama to Kibune in Kyoto!
Bonsai Galore!
An interesting fact about bonsai trees is that any tree can be turned into one! Like many others, I once believed bonsai to be a native species of plant exclusive to Japan, but soon learned it was the artistic gardening efforts that transform ordinary trees into bonsai!
At the Cowra Japanese Garden, you will see a bonsai house that shelters a vast variety of bonsai made from countless species of trees, many of which are native to Australia! This is a sight you won’t even see anywhere in Japan – bonsai made from eucalyptus trees!
A Zen Atmosphere
It’s not a real Japanese garden if it doesn’t invoke feelings of zen and inner peace. The Cowra Japanese Garden achieves this with its simple layout and calm atmosphere that invites one to feel connected to the present moment. Even on a hot summer day, one can escape the heat and enjoy a cool breeze under the rich green tree leaves.
The Cowra Japanese Garden also features a restaurant and cafe where one can enjoy a huge selection of menu items that cater to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I opted for the smoothie of the day and the seafood basket, which were both exceptionally refreshing and delicious!
Check Out The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection!
The best part about the Cowra Japanese Garden is that you can take home a piece of Japan with you. The gift shop is stocked with amazing gift ideas from creative origami cards to authentic Japanese tea cups and kendama toys.
There is even a variety of Japan-themed books available, the most recent addition being my very own book, The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection! The book dives deep into my most profound observations of Japanese life, allowing you to immerse yourself in my personal journey of life in Japan through the eyes of an Australian traveller!
Use the link below to purchase your copy from the Amazon Kindle Store!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!