Storytelling Through Zen Gardens

By Elissa Astorino NPD 2024

As seen in the HortInsights, a journal of the Australian Institute of Horticulture, Winter 2025 Issue. (The full issue is only available through AIH membership).

In this piece Elissa reflects “on [her] experiences in Japan, where [she] had the opportunity to meet with a fellow graduate of the School of Horticulture, Yuri Ugaya. (NPD 2007)”

“I experienced it firsthand during my time in Japan, where I discovered how storytelling has been woven into Japanese garden design for centuries. These gardens are not only visually striking–they are layered with meaning, tradition, and emotion.”

“This experience changed the way I view zen gardens. They are more than just beautiful spaces–they are living stories, patiently waiting to be seen, felt, and understood.”

Elissa is currently serving on the Australian Institute of Horticulture Future Voices Council, where she attends monthly National Council meetings to provide input and advice on various aspects of horticulture and professional development. The purpose of the Future Voices Committee is to have input from the incoming generation of horticulturists and to help to shape the future of the industry.