Japanese Garden Lighting

Japanese gardens are some of the most breathtaking gardens you can create. They consist of hardy, yet delicate plants and flowers and include ornate statues, ornaments and lighting.

One of the most common types of lighting used in the Japanese garden setting is the paper lantern. The shades are generally made from rice paper and shaped using thin wire which is weaved inside the paper, giving it a pleated look. Paper lanterns are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors, with the most common being round in shape and white in color.

Square paper lantern garden lights are a popular choice of lighting to use in a Japanese garden setting. These lanterns consist of 10 to 20 mini lanterns which are connected together on a string or wire attachment. Square paper lantern shades are brightly colored and available in various shades of green, blue, red and purple. These lanterns require the use of a small nightlight bulb or low-watt light bulb.

Guide lights are a common design feature found in Japanese gardens. Guide lights were originally used to light the way in gardens and at the entrance of temples. They were later used to guide guests to the tea room as the traditional Japanese tea ceremony was usually held in the evenings.

Guide lights are constructed from granite or materials which look like granite. Usually, they are rectangular in shape and include a wooden window frame with opaque acrylic panels. Guide lights are positioned in the ground and stand upright.

Hanging lanterns can add a touch of illumination throughout a Japanese garden. Hanging lanterns are square or rectangular in shape and constructed of bamboo and rice paper. One of the most popular styles of hanging lanterns is the Kanji lantern. Kanji lanterns have Chinese characters inscribed on rice paper and illuminate through the use of a low-watt light bulb.

Silk lanterns make an elegant addition to a Japanese garden; however, they should only be used in areas that are protected from environmental elements. Silk lanterns add a touch of femininity to Japanese gardens and are available in rich tones of red, green, blue, or purple. Generally, silk lanterns are attached to a pole or mounted to a ceiling. They emit a soft, soothing light.

Today, fans of the Japanese garden have many lighting choices. Japanese garden lighting is available in the traditional bamboo, or the more modern stainless and copper designs. It is oftentimes found in garden centers, craft and hobby stores, some retail stores, and occasionally in grocery and drug stores. Many unique and affordable pieces of Japanese garden lighting can be found online and through online auctions.