Japanese Gardens

Designed at the turn of the last century by Isaburo Kishida and then Tadashi Noda, the Japanese Gardens were among the first of the formal gardens built at Hatley Castle. Now a peaceful oasis in a pandemic-weary world, the gardens have reached a venerable age. Compassionate care is urgently required to preserve both plants and infrastructure.

In 2020, generous Vision in Bloom donors enabled the repair of key garden features, both our traditional water wheel and the long-awaited re-installation of the Japanese crane sculptures.

Over time, RRU will advance full-scale restoration of the Japanese Gardens—rooted in the elements of beauty, appreciation of nature and peaceful coexistence. New features will improve accessibility for visitors, providing more opportunities for both quiet contemplation and participation in a range of traditional, ceremonial and restorative activities.

How a traditional teahouse is bringing a piece of traditional Japanese culture to Royal Roads

Thanks to a local donation, a traditional teahouse is part of the plans for RRU’s Japanese gardens
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RRU’s historic Japanese Gardens are getting a major redesign

CBC Victoria's Adam van der Zwan took a walk with the garden's new architect Hayato Ogawa and Director of Operations Ron Granados to find out more about major plans for the historic Japanese Gardens.
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What’s in the (water) works at Royal Roads

The ponds and fish ladders in RRU’s gardens go back more than a century and are getting upgrades as part of A Vision in Bloom.
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RRU Bonsai with Mark Paterson

We are pleased to share a little peek into a local donor event with RRU’s Bonsai Artist Mark Paterson who shared insights on the art of bonsai.
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He devoted a lifetime to bonsai. Soon, you’ll be able to see his trees at Royal Roads

Dick and Bette Geisreiter donated over 100 bonsai to Royal Roads University to be enjoyed in the university’s Japanese garden.
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Hayoto Ogawa and Vera Gammert in the Japanese Gardens at RRU

Rejuvenation of Royal Roads’ Japanese gardens will build on tradition — and perfection

A major upgrade of Royal Roads University’s tranquil Japanese gardens is a key piece of its Vision in Bloom fundraising campaign.
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Japanese Gardens’ history is entwined with the men who made it

Isaburo Kishida and Tadashi Noda were the designers behind Royal Roads University’s verdant and serene Japanese Gardens.
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Water wheel in Japanese Garden

Renewal for Royal Roads’ iconic water wheel

The waterwheel in the Japanese Gardens is a powerful symbol of rebirth and regeneration, and an example of how man, machine and nature can work together in harmony. This iconic feature was skillfully restored by local artisans thanks to the generous support of community donors.
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