Image credit: Roger Jones / Geograph Britain and Ireland · CC BY-SA 2.0 · 2025-05-16 ↗
SOAS Japanese Roof Garden
Bloomsbury / SOAS · Euston → Bloomsbury → Soho · Hidden roof garden / Japanese design
Story
Perched atop the rooftops in the academic heart of Bloomsbury, the SOAS Japanese Roof Garden offers an unexpected sanctuary of peace. What visitors encounter today is a meticulously designed space that vividly contrasts with London's urban bustle – a small, sculpted plot of nature inviting stillness. Its conception in 2001, as an integral part of the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) Brunei Gallery, was not merely an aesthetic addition but a gift from Professor Haruhiko Fukuda. This gesture arose as an act of reciprocity and cultural appreciation following the British Museum's travelling exhibition, 'The Power of Reconciliation', which had toured Japan. The garden's creation is, therefore, intrinsically linked to cultural diplomacy and a profound message of peace and understanding between nations. In a period of increasing globalisation and the pursuit of intercultural dialogue, this garden stood as a tangible symbol of such aspirations. Its minimalist design is characteristic of Japanese dry gardens, or *karesansui*, which use elements like raked gravel to represent water, and carefully placed rocks with symbolic meaning, inviting meditation. The central feature, a granite water basin, is engraved with the Kanji for 'forgiveness', a constant reminder of its foundational theme. Unlike a traditional ornamental garden, every element here is arranged to evoke a sense of harmony and to foster contemplation on reconciliation and healing. Observing the clean lines and deliberate sparseness, one can read the intention to create a space where the mind can be freed from external noise, offering a valuable lesson in how culture and design can converge to promote universal values in the heart of a global metropolis.
What to look for
Look for the granite water basin, engraved with the kanji for 'forgiveness', a central element in this garden. Also observe the carefully arranged stones, raked gravel, and restrained planting, which all contribute to its atmosphere of serenity and contemplation.
Secret detail
The garden's creation in 2001 was a gift and an act of reciprocity for the British Museum's travelling exhibition 'The Power of Reconciliation', underscoring its profound thematic significance.
Where exactly
Go to the SOAS Brunei Gallery entrance at 10 Thornhaugh Street. The garden is not at street level: enter the gallery and go to the first floor for roof-garden access.
Orientation
Once on the first floor of the gallery, follow the signs to access the garden from within.
Why it matters
This garden reveals how global cultural influence can manifest in unexpected urban spaces, offering a place for reflection and an example of Japanese landscape design in the heart of London, tied to a universal concept like forgiveness.
Access & opening
Current official hours: Tue–Sat 10:30–17:00; Thu until 20:00; closed Sun, Mon and Bank Holidays. Garden can close during exhibition changeovers/private functions.
Free during public gallery/garden opening
We never show live status. Check opening hours before you go.
Accessibility
Important current warning: SOAS accessibility page says the lift to the first-floor roof garden is currently out of service. Recheck live.