In May 2023, Japanese garden designer Kazuyuki Ishihara brought his latest award-winning creation to the AAEF Art Center. Having clinched the gold medal at the prestigious “Chelsea Flower Show” organized by the British Royal Family, this garden was transplanted to the center’s backyard, where it’s now accessible to visitors. Inspired by the philosophy of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, along with Zen aesthetics, his gardens exudes elegance, tranquility, and a leisurely vibe, offering a serene and comfortable ambiance for all who visit.

Kazuyuki Ishihara
Garden designer

Born in Nagasaki Prefecture in 1958, Ishihara has won 12gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, the oldest and most esteemed floral exhibition globally. Queen Elizabeth has recognized him as the “Green Magician” for his extraordinary contributions to garden design.

At 22, Kazuyuki Ishihara began his study at Ikenobo, recognized as the birthplace of ikebana. He became captivated by the concept of landscapes crafted from merely three branches. This fascination led him from selling flowers on the street to opening a shop and eventually becoming a garden designer. His innovative use of moss in gardens garnered high praise at the Chelsea Flower Show, the premier international horticultural exhibition. Recently, his work that incorporates pine bonsai into the courtyard landscapes has garnered notable attention. His award-winning “Flower Paradise” garden was honored by being recreated at Haneda Airport, welcoming visitors to Japan with its long lasting beauty.