Nestled atop the Brunei Gallery at SOAS University of London is a serene retreat—a Japanese-style Roof Garden that offers a moment of peace and reflection amidst the vibrant city of London. Built to commemorate the Japan 2001 celebrations, the garden stands as a testament to the university’s deep ties with Japanese culture and its commitment to creating contemplative spaces for students, staff, and visitors alike. Officially opened on November 13, 2001, by sponsor Haruhisa Handa, an Honorary Fellow of the School, this garden has since become a beloved feature of the SOAS campus.
Design and Concept: Blending Tradition with Modernity
The Japanese Roof Garden was designed by Peter Swift, who carefully crafted a space that marries traditional Japanese garden design with the unique environmental conditions of the UK. This thoughtful adaptation of an age-old art form allows the garden to flourish in the British climate while retaining the core elements that make Japanese gardens so distinctive—harmony, balance, and a sense of timelessness.
At the heart of the garden’s design is the concept of forgiveness, symbolised by the Kanji character engraved on the granite water basin. The water basin, a central feature of many Japanese gardens, represents purity and reflection. Its placement encourages quiet contemplation and introspection, providing a space for visitors to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of London life.
Surrounding the water feature are carefully arranged elements typical of a Japanese garden—pruned trees, stones, and gravel, all meticulously placed to evoke a sense of natural order and calm. The garden, though small in scale, is a masterpiece of design, embodying the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and simplicity.
A Space for Reflection and Meditation
The Japanese Roof Garden at SOAS is not merely an aesthetic triumph but also a space with a profound purpose. It was conceived as a place for quiet contemplation and meditation, perfectly complementing the artistic and intellectual activities of the Brunei Gallery below. In a world that often feels fast-paced and chaotic, the garden offers an oasis where one can pause, breathe, and reconnect with the natural world.
Visitors to the garden are encouraged to engage with its tranquillity. The thoughtful layout invites them to take slow, deliberate steps, appreciating the intricate details of the plants, stones, and water features. This quiet engagement fosters a deeper connection to the space, making it not just a garden but a sanctuary for the mind and spirit.
Opening Times and Accessibility
For those wishing to experience this peaceful haven, the Japanese Roof Garden is open to the public Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:30am to 5:00pm, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8:00pm. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Bank Holidays.
Access to the garden is via the first floor of the Brunei Gallery, and visitors should note that the garden may occasionally be closed for private functions or during exhibition changes. It is always advisable to check with the Brunei Gallery for any updates on access before planning your visit.
Forgiveness: The Garden’s Central Theme
One of the most striking elements of the Japanese Roof Garden at SOAS is its dedication to the theme of forgiveness. This is a powerful concept, reflected in the Kanji character that adorns the granite water basin. Forgiveness is an integral part of many spiritual and philosophical traditions, and the garden’s focus on this theme encourages visitors to reflect on their own capacity for forgiveness—of themselves, of others, and of the world around them.
The garden’s layout and features work in harmony to reinforce this theme. The flowing water, the carefully placed stones, and the pruned plants all represent different aspects of life’s journey. The stillness of the space allows for a deeper contemplation of the challenges and the beauty of life, making it an ideal spot for meditation and personal reflection.
The Common Ground Community Garden
In addition to the Japanese Roof Garden, SOAS is also home to the Common Ground Community Garden, a green space that serves a different, yet equally important, purpose. Established in 2009 by members of the Good Food Society, this garden is located on the SOAS campus and is dedicated to growing food and herbs, promoting sustainability, and fostering community engagement.
The Common Ground Community Garden provides a vital connection between students, staff, and the wider community, offering a space for hands-on learning about urban agriculture, food systems, and sustainable practices. It is a living classroom, where students can learn about the importance of local food production and environmental stewardship.
A Unique Feature of the SOAS Campus
Both the Japanese Roof Garden and the Common Ground Community Garden enhance the overall experience of the SOAS campus. They provide green spaces that allow for reflection, relaxation, and community involvement, offering a respite from the demands of academic life. These gardens are not only a testament to SOAS’s commitment to cultural diversity and environmental sustainability, but they also contribute to the overall wellbeing of those who study, work, and visit the university.
The Japanese Roof Garden in particular stands out as a unique feature of London’s green spaces, offering a blend of traditional Japanese design and British horticultural practices. It is a place where East meets West, where ancient philosophies of nature and balance are brought into conversation with the modern urban landscape.
The Japanese Roof Garden at SOAS University of London is more than just a beautiful space—it is a living embodiment of the university’s commitment to fostering cultural understanding, personal reflection, and community engagement. Whether you are a student seeking a moment of peace between classes or a visitor interested in experiencing a slice of Japanese garden culture in the heart of London, the garden offers a unique and invaluable experience.
With its dedication to the theme of forgiveness and its carefully designed elements, the garden provides a space for meditation and quiet contemplation, making it an essential part of the SOAS campus.
