In the east of the Netherlands, Yokoso Japanese Gardens was commissioned to design and realize a traditional Japanese front garden. The client’s wish was to transform the existing front garden into a charming, authentic Japanese garden that combines natural beauty, refined design, and centuries-old Japanese garden traditions. In doing so, the relatively limited available space posed a special challenge: every square meter had to be utilized optimally, without compromising the tranquility and harmony that are so characteristic of Japanese garden design.
After several pleasant conversations with the client, we began the design process by positioning three characteristic natural stone elements. In traditional Japanese garden architecture, the placement of stones, also known as Ishigumi, forms an essential component of the composition. The stones are carefully selected and placed in harmony, with their shape, direction, and natural appearance determining the balance of the garden. From this base, the design was further developed with light gravel areas, evergreen ground cover plants, and a subtle path of stepping stones.
Subsequently, various characteristic Japanese forms were added to the design. Their carefully trimmed silhouettes bring height, depth, and a sense of maturity to the garden. As a particularly architectural accent, we chose an antique Kasuga-gata Ishidōrō, a traditional Japanese stone lantern. This imposing ornament forms a refined contrast with the organic forms of the plantings and natural stone and reinforces the authentic character of the garden.
The design was completed with a traditional Japanese bamboo fence and a border of natural stone granite retaining walls. The sophisticated bamboo structure forms a subtle boundary between the public space and the enclosed world of the garden. Through the careful coordination of all elements, a balanced design emerged in which traditional Japanese aesthetics and the architecture of the house naturally complement each other.

After completing the design process, we selected the natural stones, Japanese shaped trees, and traditional ornaments from our own collection together with the client. This personal selection forms an important part of our approach. After all, each stone, tree, and lantern possesses its own character and contributes to the overall appearance of the final design. By carefully matching these elements in advance, we were able to accurately translate the original garden design into reality.
The construction began with preparing the ground and carefully positioning the three decorative natural stones. Their placement formed the basis for the further development of the garden. Subsequently, the gravel surfaces, planting areas, and the Japanese stone path were laid out. By alternating between open spaces, dark ground cover, and low-growing green plants, a natural composition with a surprising spatial effect was created. The Japanese shaped trees and the antique Kasuga-gata stone lanterns were then placed in their final positions.
A particularly distinctive aspect of the construction was the manufacture of the traditional bamboo fence. In this process, we used authentic Japanese connection techniques, in which bamboo poles are attached to each other using black binding cords. We also applied this artisanal method to the construction of a similar fence for the famous Japanese garden at Clingendael estate in The Hague. The combination of natural bamboo, characteristic knot connections, and the precisely finished granite locking straps gives the front garden a neat and authentic appearance.
Throughout the entire construction process, the client remained closely involved in the work. At Yokoso, we believe it is important that our clients not only review the design, but can also continue to share their wishes and ideas during the implementation. By regularly holding regular meetings and providing room for any adjustments, we ensure that every detail aligns with the client’s personal expectations.