Japan Institute of Portland Japanese Garden is proud to announce that 2026 will mark the return and third annual presentation of its TEIEN FORUM series. These in-person gatherings at the University of Tokyo review the impact and importance of Japanese gardens and are held in partnership with the Japan Association for the International Horticultural Expo 2027, Yokohama (GREEN×EXPO 2027).
In May of 2026, the TEIEN FORUM will feature an illuminating afternoon of presentations and panel discussions at the University of Tokyo with “How Gardens Shape Us: People and Nature,” an expert-led exploration of the impact of Japanese gardens on the human mind and body, considering both the humanities and scientific perspectives. On the day of the event, attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the Kaitokukan Garden, a hidden gem at the University not typically accessible to the public.
Previously, in May of 2024, the inaugural TEIEN FORUM was titled “Why Japanese Gardens Now” and featured distinguished scholars and practitioners from various fields who discussed the interpretation of Japanese gardens, a subject that remains relatively unknown even within Japan. The panelists explored the topic from architectural, landscape design, and historical perspectives, examining how Japanese gardens are understood in modern society. In May of 2025, the Institute once again partnered with GREEN×EXPO 2027 for its second installment of TEIEN FORUM, titled “Japanese Gardens: Why Go Global.” This second iteration moved beyond traditional formalism, offering discussions on Japanese gardens from a global perspective.
Registration
Registration is scheduled to begin on April 10th.
The registration fee is ¥6,000 for general participants and ¥3,000 for students.
Registrations will not be accepted at the venue on the day of the event. Further information, including how to register, will be posted on this page, so please check back later.
If you wish to receive a notification, please fill out the form below. An email with registration details will be sent once available.
Co-hosted by
Portland Japanese Garden and Japan Institute
With
GREEN×EXPO 2027
(Japan Association for the International Horticultural Expo 2027, Yokohama)
In collaboration with
The University of Tokyo
Sponsorsed by
The Tokyo Club
