Japanese-style garden in Grand Rapids, Michigan , USA

"Bright morning light on pond and path around the garden"

https://www.flickr.com/photos/mi_shigapics/51427254438/in/album-72157712160299046

Thanks to Guven Witteveen for sharing this info through the Society for East Asian Anthropology listserv. Guven's comments: 

Probably there are many cities and countries with some form of Japanese-style garden. Of all the cultural landscapes around the world, there only seem to be a few traditions so widely exported during colonial eras and during global times today. Among the many forms of Soft Power, I wonder how gardens fit in at the level of individual impressions formed and popular imagination, too.

The link he provided comes from the sister-city relationship between Grand Rapids, Michigan and Omi-Hachiman in Shiga prefecture, Japan.

Context: As we mark 30 Years of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, we're also honoring a special milestone: 10 Years of the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden! 🌸

This serene oasis was crafted by the visionary Hoichi Kurisu and Kurisu International, a firm renowned for creating "inner spaces" that inspire and heal. Their unique approach weaves together the essence of place, people, and purpose to nurture nature's restorative power. 🌿

Did you know that Hoichi's original design remained remarkably consistent from concept to completion? 📝It's a testament to his clear vision! In the final summer before its opening, about 30 artisans from Japan joined us to bring this tranquil haven to life. Many structures were built in Japan and reassembled on site, with a large tent housing material shipped from across the globe. 🌏

Hoichi is an architect of space, crafting intimate areas that unfold into expansive strolling gardens. Each visit reveals new wonders! Join us in celebrating these milestones and experience the beauty of art and nature intertwined.

#MeijerGardens #JapaneseGarden #30Years #10Years #NatureMeetsArt

Link to "Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids" flickr page:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/mi_shigapics/albums/72157712160299046/