Japanese Garden Design Melbourne

Authentic, Tranquil & Timeless

Create a Serene Outdoor Retreat with Japanese-Style Garden Landscaping

A Japanese garden is more than just an outdoor space—it’s a reflection of balance, nature, and artistry. Every stone, water feature, and plant is placed with intention and purpose, creating a tranquil retreat that invites reflection and relaxation.


At Christian Jenkins Landscape Design, we bring 20+ years of award-winning expertise to crafting bespoke Japanese-inspired gardens that blend seamlessly with Melbourne’s landscape. Whether you have a small courtyard, a large residential property, or a commercial project, we design and construct authentic Japanese-style gardens that embody timeless elegance and natural harmony.

What Defines a True Japanese Garden?

Japanese gardens are deeply rooted in Zen Buddhism and the principles of balance, asymmetry, and symbolism. Unlike traditional Western gardens that emphasise symmetry, a Japanese-inspired garden flows naturally, mimicking landscapes found in nature.

Key features of a traditional Japanese garden:

Natural stone & dry rock gardens – Rocks are carefully positioned to represent mountains, islands, and flowing landscapes.

Water features & pond gardens – A key element in Japanese design, water symbolises renewal and movement. Whether through a koi pond, cascading waterfall, or a still reflecting pool, water creates a sense of peace.

Japanese maple & cherry blossom trees – Seasonal changes bring movement and depth, with vibrant autumn foliage and delicate spring blossoms.

Zen-inspired pathways & seating areas – Stone pathways, bamboo screening, and minimalist seating areas invite quiet contemplation.

Tea gardens & promenade gardens – Inspired by traditional tea ceremony spaces, these gardens incorporate winding paths, moss-covered stones, and intimate clearings.

Japanese Garden Design Services in Melbourne

At Christian Jenkins Landscape Design, we specialise in crafting bespoke Japanese gardens that integrate seamlessly into Melbourne’s residential and commercial landscapes.

Bespoke Japanese Garden Design

We take the time to understand your vision, space, and lifestyle, creating a Japanese garden that is both functional and deeply connected to nature.

Small Japanese Gardens & Courtyard Spaces

Even in a small area, a Japanese-inspired garden can create a peaceful escape. Our designs make the most of compact spaces using natural stone, bamboo screening, and carefully selected plants.

Zen Gardens & Dry Rock Gardens

Minimalist designs featuring raked gravel, precisely placed stones, and sculptural plantings, perfect for meditation and mindfulness.

Water Features & Pond Gardens

Flowing water adds movement and tranquillity. Whether it’s a traditional koi pond, a stone water basin, or a cascading waterfall, we integrate authentic water features into your design.

Plant Selection & Natural Landscaping

From Japanese maple and cherry blossom trees to moss gardens and bamboo screens, we select the perfect plants to enhance seasonal beauty while remaining low-maintenance.

Why Choose Christian Jenkins for Your Japanese Garden?

A Master of Landscape Design


Christian Jenkins is known for his award-winning garden designs, including Gold Medal-winning projects at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. His ability to blend natural elements with functional spaces has made him one of Melbourne’s most sought-after landscape designers.


Expert Knowledge of Japanese Garden Principles


Japanese gardens require incredible amounts of time planning to achieve balance, authenticity, and longevity. Christian and his team carefully consider every rock, plant, and water feature, ensuring each garden reflects traditional Japanese philosophy while being practical for Australian landscapes.


Tailored for Melbourne’s Climate


While Japanese gardens originate from regions like Shizuoka Prefecture, Melbourne’s climate presents different challenges. Our designs incorporate low-maintenance solutions that thrive in Melbourne suburbs, ensuring your garden remains stunning year-round.


From Design to Residential Landscape Construction


We handle every step of the process, from initial design concepts to full garden construction, delivering exceptional craftsmanship and long-lasting quality.


How We Design & Build Your Japanese Garden

1.

Initial Design Consultation

We start by understanding your vision and space, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese gardens, Zen garden ideas, and natural landscapes.

2.

Landscape Planning & Material Selection

Every detail is considered—from the positioning of natural stone to the curation of plant species and placement of water features.

3.

Residential Landscape Construction

Our team of skilled landscapers brings the design to life, ensuring every element is constructed with precision and craftsmanship.

4.

Ongoing Garden Care & Advice

Japanese gardens are designed to evolve over time. We provide expert guidance on seasonal maintenance, ensuring your garden matures beautifully.

Discover Our Finished Japanese Gardens in Melbourne

Each project is designed with intention, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for nature.

Our portfolio includes a range of Japanese-inspired gardens:

Courtyard Japanese Garden

A small, private retreat featuring bamboo screening, stone pathways, and a tranquil water feature.

Zen Meditation Garden

A minimalist dry rock garden, designed for calm and mindfulness.

Traditional Pond Garden

A koi pond surrounded by natural stone and sculpted plantings, reflecting the beauty of authentic Japanese gardens.

Ready to Create Your Own Japanese Garden?

Let’s create something timeless.

A beautiful garden doesn’t happen by chance—it’s crafted with skill, experience, and a deep understanding of design principles. Whether you’re looking for a small Japanese courtyard garden or a large traditional retreat, Christian Jenkins and his team will bring your vision to life.

Get a free consultation today-contact us to discuss your project.

FAQs

  • What are the key features of a Japanese garden?

    Japanese gardens focus on natural stone, water elements, plant selection, and balance, creating a space that feels harmonious and timeless.

  • How much does a Japanese garden cost in Melbourne?

    Costs vary based on size, plant selection, and materials. A small Japanese garden may start from $5,000, while larger designs with intricate stonework and water features range from $15,000 to $30,000+.

  • Can you create a Japanese garden in a small space?

    Yes. Many of our projects involve small Japanese courtyard gardens that use bamboo, rock features, and water elements to create a serene retreat in compact spaces.

  • What plants are best for a Japanese-inspired garden?

    Japanese maple, cherry blossom, bamboo, ferns, and moss are ideal choices, creating an authentic yet low-maintenance landscape.

  • How do I get started?

    Simply contact us for a consultation. We’ll discuss your ideas, space, and budget, and craft a bespoke Japanese garden tailored to your home.

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