The 5 hectare Kaiyushiki (strolling) garden is the largest in the southern hemisphere.

He subsequently designed Japanese Gardens in Moscow, Montreal, Houston and Rome.

To foster harmony and tranquillity, Japanese Gardens only use flowers that are white, yellow and blue - avoiding red.

Bushes are shaped like boulders and streams, and follow the course of the streams.

Traditionally Japanese Gardens were private gardens - used for meditation and calm.

Details of their history, symbolism and design are provided at the Japanese Gardens website.

The Japanese Garden Database also provides many links and information.

It is recommended that an Acoustiguide be hired before commencing a walk around the garden.

This hand-held device provides audio commentary of the garden's design and history.

Although sometimes hard to achieve, Japanese Gardens are best appreciated and enjoyed in the absence of noisy crowds ........