The relationship between cities and Japanese gardens goes back to the very origins of the Japanese garden itself. During the eighth century, gardens using Chinese landscaping techniques to innovate original Japanese features occupied the heart of the ancient capital of Nara. Documents and excavational surveys tell us that Kyoto also had many gardens after the capital was moved there in the Heian period (794-1185). In addition, there are several gardens dating back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) that still exist in Kyoto City today. That gardens have an interdependent relationship with architecture goes without saying. As architectural styles and cities have changed, so too have gardens changed alongside them. While many Japanese gardens have been in cities, there were also those built in Zen temples at the foot of mountains. Nevertheless, Japanese gardens have all shared a common spirit.
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