#Kanda Myojin #Japanese Gardens #Kazuyuki Ishihara

Special Talk Event: The Allure of Japanese Gardens

Mark your calendars for June 14, 2026, as a significant dialogue unfolds at Kanda Myojin shrine featuring the acclaimed garden designer, Kazuyuki Ishihara, and priest Yoshihiko Shimizu. This special event, commemorating Ishihara's achievements at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, dives into the question: why does the world find itself enchanted by Japanese gardens?

Kazuyuki Ishihara, a celebrated figure in international garden design, returns from the Chelsea Flower Show, where he has garnered global acclaim. During this illuminating discussion, he will reflect on his past works, challenges, and how he has successfully conveyed the beauty of Japanese庭園 (Japanese gardens) as a refined “Japanese brand” on the world stage. Attendees will gain insights into the reception of his designs by the British royal family and discover perspectives on the future of Japanese horticultural culture.

Adding to the event's depth, Ishihara will unveil his concept of “landscape bonsai” (盆景) within the shrine's precincts. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to engage with his unique vision, as he integrates moss, flowers, and stones to recreate Japan's rural beauty in a miniature format. This event is designed not merely as a lecture but as a sensory experience inviting participants to feel the essence of Japanese aesthetics through immersive engagement.

Additionally, Shimizu Yoshihiko, the priest of Kanda Myojin, will share thoughts on the renewal of urban shrines and the role of these sacred spaces in contemporary society. This is a crucial conversation, especially considering how urbanization has altered the cultural landscape.

Moderating the session will be sociologist and Tokyo University emeritus professor, Toshiya Yoshimi. Known for his work on how culture transforms into social and urban value, he has contributed significantly to the rebranding and promotion of Japanese culture, particularly in places like Jimbocho. His focus for this talk will be on how to effectively brand Japan within today's global context, exploring the broader implications of garden culture on global perceptions of Japanese heritage.

Through this event, participants can expect to take away:

• - A deeper understanding of the essence of