Cowra Japanese Garden

The Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre is a 5-hectare strolling garden in Cowra, New South Wales, designed by renowned landscape architect Ken Nakajima. Opened in 1979, it is one of the largest Japanese gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Set on a hillside overlooking Cowra and the Lachlan Valley, it features lakes, streams, waterfalls, traditional pavilions, a tea house and seasonal cherry blossoms, created as a symbol of reconciliation and cultural exchange.

Visitors can expect a traditional Japanese strolling garden (kaiyushiki) with winding paths around two lakes, waterfalls, rocky hills, manicured lawns and seasonal plantings including cherry blossoms, wisteria, irises and autumn maples. The site includes a Cultural Centre with bonsai and suiseki displays, a traditional tea house, Edo-style cottage, open pavilions, and elevated viewpoints over the garden and surrounding countryside. The experience is tranquil and walkable, with opportunities for photography, leisurely walks and cultural displays.

Designed by Ken Nakajima and opened in 1979, with further stages completed in 1986. The garden was developed by Cowra Shire Council and the Japanese Government as a mark of reconciliation following the Cowra Breakout of 5 August 1944, when Japanese prisoners of war broke out from the Cowra POW Camp. It commemorates those who died and symbolises post-war friendship between Australia and Japan.

Serves as a centre for Japanese culture in Australia, hosting tea ceremonies, bonsai displays, calligraphy, festivals and educational programs. It is regarded as a significant example of Japanese landscape design in the Southern Hemisphere and a symbol of peace, reconciliation and cultural exchange for the Cowra community.