Analysis and characterization of a Japanese garden in Ribeirao Preto (SP), Brazil

Abstract

The Japanese Garden of the Fabio Barreto Municipal Forest/Zoo in Ribeirao Preto, state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, was analyzed. Among the vegetation elements, 362 individuals (trees and shrubs) were identified, covering 80 species, 69 genera and 41 families. The Shannon-Weaver biodiversity index of the area was 3.48. Many plants (50%) are not of Asian origin, mischaracterizing the garden. Some elements such as the pagoda, a stone lamp, Mount Fuji and the bridges to the island in the center of one of the lakes were according with the philosophy of a Japanese garden; however, other aspects like commemorative plates, trash containers and concrete benches were uncharacteristic. The survey conducted to know the visitor profile and value for local respondents concluded that most visitors have high school education (42%), are women (52%) or are between 41 and 60 years old (44%). Most (88%) are unaware of the principles that guide the Japanese garden style. The style of the garden is not fully characteristic and showed maintenance problems.