Margaret Island
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / CC BY 2.0, modified.
Overview
The Japanese Garden on Margaret Island is located in the northern part of Margaret Island, Budapest, within the area traditionally known as the Rock and Japanese Garden. The present pond system and Japanese-style rock garden were created in 1936, according to plans by the Späth company. The garden forms a secluded ornamental landscape within the larger public park of Margaret Island.
History
The water system was first built under the direction of Kunsch, followed by the construction of the rock formations. The plant material was reportedly brought from the Alps. Although earlier sources connect Japanese-style planting on the island with György Magyar, who became head gardener in 1882, the currently visible pond system and Japanese-style rock garden are best dated to the 1936 Späth-designed development.
The garden was restored in 2014, when paths, benches, planting and water features were renewed.
Design features
The garden combines ponds, streams, bridges, rock formations, aquatic plants and shaded paths. Its present character is that of a Japanese-style rock and water garden integrated into the wider public park landscape of Margaret Island. It is known for its ponds, fish, turtles, water lilies, bridges and intimate atmosphere.
Garden elements
Bridges
Waters and islands
Stones
Current status
Extant and restored public Japanese-style rock and water garden in the northern part of Margaret Island, within the area traditionally known as the Japanese Garden. The currently visible pond system and Japanese-style rock garden are best dated to the 1936 Späth-designed development. The garden was restored in 2014, when paths, benches, planting and water features were renewed. Today it remains a popular freely accessible garden area within Margaret Island, known for ponds, streams, bridges, rock formations, fish, turtles, water lilies and shaded paths.