The Japanese Tea Garden at Le Manoir is in the style of a Chaniwa (Tea gardens) or Roji (Dewy Path). The word Roji is a reference to the passage of the Buddhist Lotus Sutra, which depicts Paradise. In the development of the Chaniwa, one finds a fusion of Buddhist, Taoist and Shinto influences.
One enters the garden via the oak bridge, and proceeds to the water basin. Here, beneath three large stones, representing the Buddhist Trinity (Sanzon Seki), the visitor may pause to pour water over their hands in ritual ablution. Returning to the main path, the visitor has a choice of paths through the outer garden.
The stepping stone paths slow the tread, and the pavement sections allow views over the garden. Viewing stones are also provided at suitable points. The pace of the garden is slow and deep.
The Tea House
The Tea House is the ultimate destination of the routes. At the door of the Tea House the visitors shake off “the dust of the world”. The Tea House is built of plain English oak, thatched with Norfolk reed with a bulrush ridge. Split hazel rods are used throughout.
The rough plastered walls are created with lime plaster, a traditional technique, using boar and horse hair to bind the plaster. The plaster will gradually weather to a soft glow. Please remember to remove your shoes before stepping onto the Tatami mats.
The front door is the low Nigiriguchi (crawling-in entrance). Its height ensures every guest offers a gesture of humility toward the Tokonoma (alcove) opposite. For the less brave, the Host door from the verandah may be used.
The Tea House is named Fugetsu-An, (The Pavilion of a Deep Love of Nature). Fugetsu is composed of the characters for Wind and Moon. Fugetsu sounds like forgets, the visitor is encouraged to forget the cares of the every day world and become absorbed in the beauty of nature.
Robert Ketchell – Designer
