Japanese Influence at Kew Gardens

When Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan visit Kew Gardens on Thursday as part of a state visit to Britain, the links between their island nation and the famed London landmark will be on full display.

Dotted through the botanic gardens’ 330 acres are constant reminders of that longstanding relationship. In a large greenhouse, bronze sculptures of bonsai trees — some nearly the height of the room — stand in tribute to the Japanese horticultural art form. A short walk away is the Japanese Gateway, an intricately carved cypress replica of a Kyoto temple. Nearby, gravel neatly raked into waves and swirls surrounded by Japanese plant species evokes a traditional tea garden.

Significance of the Visit

For dignitaries and heads of state from many countries, visiting Kew Gardens during official tours is a common practice, as the site attracts roughly 2.3 million visits annually and is one of London’s most popular tourist destinations. However, for the emperor and empress of Japan, the site holds particular relevance due to the longstanding relationship between Japan and the gardens.

Richard Deverell, the director of Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, highlighted the close relationship with Japan, evident through the beautiful structures in the landscape, living collections, economic botany, and art collection at Kew Gardens. The gardens even hosted a monthlong festival in 2021 celebrating the strong ties between Japan and the site.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako arrived at Stansted Airport near London for their state visit on Saturday. The lineage of the emperor, 64, traces back more than 15 centuries, making the Chrysanthemum Throne the world’s oldest monarchy. Despite the historical significance, much like the British royal family, the role of Japan’s imperial family remains symbolic and separate from the country’s government.

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