PICK OF THE DAY

MONTY DON’S JAPANESE GARDENS, 9PM, BBC2

AS THE winter chill begins to retreat, ever so slowly, Monty Don travels to Japan for the heartening sight of gardens in the midst of spring renewal. Famous for its cherry blossoms, the season attracts visitors from around the world, who come to see vast flourishes of pink and white flowers on the cherry trees. Continuing his journey, Mail columnist Monty (pictured) takes in spiritual and cultural highlights, from the tranquillity of a Zen landscape to the ritual of a tea ceremony. He looks at the rolling moss of a Buddhist garden. He also learns about Japanese stonemasonry, and tries his hand at the art of traditional flower arranging – which is harder than it looks. Next week: autumn.