Explore the Japanese Garden
Get a glimpse into a different world in The Japanese Garden, created by the 8th Viscount and Viscountess Powerscourt in 1908. This beautiful, mythical garden was created on the reclaimed bogland south of Triton Lake over 100 years ago.
Arguably the best view of the garden is Lord Londonderry’s stone seat, perched high above the Japanese Garden. This spot was a favourite retreat of Lord Londonderry, and you can enjoy the same views he did, many years ago.
The Japanese Garden looks wonderful in spring when the azaleas are in full bloom and their blossoms perfume the air, and in autumn with the vibrant colours of the Japanese maples. Stone lanterns will guide you through the winding paths of the garden, bringing you to its innermost circle.
Here you will find a Pagoda and a trickling stream under oriental Japanese bridges. The next circle is marked by a ring of Chinese Fortune Palms, which have been cultivated in China and Japan for thousands of years and were first brought to Europe in 1830.
The upper circle provides stunning views of the Japanese Garden and the Sugar Loaf Mountain in the distance. There is a beautiful concept behind each of these circles: working inwards, we discover our inner selves; working outwards and upwards we gain greater knowledge of the world around us. Before you leave The Japanese Garden, toss a coin into the wishing well for good luck!
The elaborate grotto, next to The Japanese Garden, is one of the oldest features of Powerscourt gardens, dating from the 1st Viscount’s garden in 1740. An air of 18th century romance still pervades here, with its secret pathways and idyllic atmosphere. The grotto is made from fossilised sphagnum moss, taken from the banks of the nearby river Dargle. The sounds of water trickling down the grotto’s moss-covered walls really adds to the enchanting and magical feel of the place.
Sustainability & Biodiversity
The long-term overarching mission at Powerscourt Estate is to be recognised on a global stage for our sustainability initiatives, and to be Net Zero by 2025.
