02/06/2025
EuroJGA at the Teien Forum 2025 in Tokyo
The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the leading institutions promoting the art and appreciation of Japanese gardens worldwide. Since last year, it has been organizing an annual Teien Forum in Japan. The second edition, held this year, was titled “Japanese Gardens – Why Go Global?” EuroJGA was invited to join the panel on “Views from Practitioners.”
Following five presentations on various Japanese gardens abroad, our Research Director, Professor Christian Tagsold, discussed what is needed to foster Japanese gardens in Europe. Many public gardens in Europe originated from sister-city relationships, where Japanese cities donated gardens to strengthen international ties. However, over time, these gardens often face challenges, as their maintenance is complex and requires skilled, well-trained gardeners.
In contrast, historical Japanese gardens from the Japonisme era should be maintained by European professionals. These gardens represent a cultural heritage that reflects how Europeans once envisioned “exotic Japan”—a legacy worth preserving.
The following day, our President, Jean-Pierre Chavassieux, and Professor Tagsold met with representatives from Japan’s leading gardening and landscape associations. In his keynote speech, Jean-Pierre once again emphasized the urgent need to raise the level of training in Europe to ensure proper maintenance of Japanese gardens. The message was well received and will lead to closer cooperation with these key institutions in Japan.
