Sakuteiki

Sakuteiki (作庭記, "Records of Garden Making") is a classical Japanese garden design treatise written by the monk and landscape architect **Kōrin** (1658–1716) during the early Edo period. Completed in 1701, it remains one of the most influential texts on traditional Japanese garden aesthetics, particularly in the development of *karesansui* (dry landscape) gardens.

The treatise emphasizes the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of garden design, drawing from Zen Buddhist principles and the natural beauty of the Japanese landscape. Kōrin, who was associated with the **Rinzai** school of Zen, viewed gardens as microcosms that reflect the harmony between humanity and nature. His work advocates for simplicity, asymmetry, and the deliberate use of natural elements like rocks, sand, and water to evoke deeper contemplation.

Sakuteiki is notable for its practical advice on selecting and arranging materials, such as the placement of rocks to represent mountains or the use of moss to symbolize forests. Kōrin also discusses the symbolic meanings of garden features, such as the "dragon gate" (a curved rock formation) and the "five rocks" (a grouping representing the five sacred mountains of China). The text blends technical instruction with poetic reflection, illustrating how gardens can serve as meditative spaces for monks and laypeople alike.

Though written over three centuries ago, Sakuteiki continues to be studied for its enduring insights into Japanese garden theory. Its influence extends beyond religious contexts, shaping secular landscape design and inspiring modern interpretations of traditional aesthetics. The original manuscript is housed in the **Tōfuku-ji Temple** in Kyoto, where it remains a revered artifact of cultural heritage.