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Shizen Style Culture Blog
The Shizen Style Blog has foundations in Japanese aesthetics and culture, with topics surrounding Japanese gardens, photography, flow state and creativity, Ikigai (life purpose), as well as product reviews that help us figure out what's worth our time, attention, and money.
Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jan 29, 20195 min read
What kinds of rocks are used in Japanese gardens?
This is a question that often comes up when talking about Zen rock gardens and other types of Japanese gardens. I have talked with...
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jan 25, 20195 min read
What is a Modern Rustic Garden?
I have found that by adding modern and rustic elements into the garden we can balance a natural lifestyle with our busy modern world....
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jan 24, 20197 min read
Are Cherry Trees Used in Japanese Gardens?
Cherry blossom trees, or sakura, are definitely a major symbol of Japan. But from having visited a countless number of Japanese gardens...
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jan 23, 20196 min read
What are the Basic Japanese Garden Structures?
Years ago when I first began studying Japanese garden design in Japan, I learned how Japanese architecture also played a role in creating...
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jan 17, 20196 min read
Forest Bathing (ShinRin-Yoku) For Your Modern Lifestyle
Shinrin yoku (森林浴) is just starting to become recognized outside of Japan but they have been studying and developing this concept since...
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Aug 26, 20184 min read
Farmhouse Porches and Japanese Engawa Verandas
Farmhouse porches and Japanese engawa verandas have many similar characteristics. Both stem from a common cultural trait of enjoying life...
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jul 25, 20183 min read
An Introduction to Japanese Garden Design Principles
If you are looking to do something a little different with your garden I recommend an introduction to Japanese garden design principles....
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Joshua "Gensetsu" Smith, PhD
Jul 25, 20184 min read
The Top 5 Myths About Japanese Gardens
There are a few misconceptions that we have about Japanese gardens. Just like the many “sushi” restaurants that clutter suburban plazas...
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