Top CEE investable projects 2026: Japanese Garden of Imagination, Poznań, Poland

Project overview

The objective of the project, entitled ‘Construction of the Japanese Garden of Imagination at the Old Zoo’, is to create a unique public space in the western part of the Old Zoo in Poznań, covering nearly 7,500 sq m. The project is intended to reflect the rich tradition of Japanese gardening.

The planned space will not only serve as a place for relaxation and education – the aim of the project is also to enhance the landscape of the Old Zoo, attract new visitors and share knowledge about Japanese traditions, customs and philosophy, in which the balance between humanity and nature plays a key role.

The construction will include a tea house, Kame-jima (the Turtle Island), Tsuru-jima, (the Crane Island), Karesansui dry landscape garden (including: wooden seating, clay wall, Shirakawa gravel, stone boulder arrangement), among other features.

The opportunity

The project is being carried out through a public procurement process, which opens up opportunities primarily for construction firms and contractors specialising in landscape architecture and timber structures.

The financials

The project is a public initiative funded by the city. The project won the 2024 Poznań Participatory Budget, which guarantees funding from the City of Poznań’s budget.

Project sponsor

The project is funded and backed by the City of Poznań.

Significance

The project holds significant value for both the local community and the tourism sector. By enhancing the landscape qualities of the Old Zoo, it aims to attract new visitors from both domestic and international markets, strengthening its economic impact. At the same time, the garden will serve as a cultural and educational centre, offering insights into Japanese traditions and the philosophy of harmony between people and nature.

Environmental protection is also a key priority, with all works carried out under the supervision of a herpetologist to ensure the safeguarding of the site’s newt populations.

The pitch

This project combines exceptional craftsmanship, cultural depth and a prime location to create a truly distinctive development. The tea house will be constructed using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques, without metal hardware, showcasing a rare level of artisanal skill. Set in the historic heart of Poznań, a protected heritage site, the project benefits from strong visibility and prestige.

Its design draws on authentic Japanese principles such as wabi-sabi and shakkei, offering a unique approach that sets it apart from conventional park regeneration schemes. The use of high-quality materials, including yellow cedar and European larch, further reinforces the project’s exclusive character.