Japanese · Nature & Environment
庭
niwa
Garden
Definition
A cultivated outdoor space. Japanese garden design (日本庭園 nihon teien) is renowned worldwide for its careful aesthetics, featuring stones, water, and carefully pruned trees.
Example
日本庭園は世界中で有名です。
Japanese gardens are famous throughout the world.
Etymology
The term '庭' (niwa) has roots in Old Japanese, referring to enclosed spaces or yards, signifying cultivated land for pleasure or utility.
How & Where It’s Used
'庭' (niwa) is used in both spoken and written contexts, especially in discussions related to architecture, landscaping, and traditional Japanese gardens. It has no strong regional variations.
Literary Heritage
The idea of gardens appears throughout Japanese literature and art, symbolizing serenity and harmony with nature, seen in works like the 'Tale of Genji'.