It is from Japan’s Hakone National Park, situated southwest of Tokyo amid the volcanic mountains and verdant forests of Mt. Fuji’s Five Lakes region, that California’s Hakone Gardens takes its name. Overlooking the Valley of the Heart’s Delight (now known as Silicon Valley), Hakone offers not only a global heritage forum for art and culture, it provides each guest a healing sanctuary from the stress of modern life.
Walk through the impressive main gate onto the Moon Bridge to watch colorful koi swimming in the pond. Imagine the splendor of a full moon mirrored there when viewed from the terrace of the Moonviewing House. To the music of hillside waterfalls, wander through the bamboo, camellia flower, tea, and Zen gardens, taking a moment in the Tea Waiting Pavilion to observe the harmony of plants, lanterns, carved stones, and walkways that have been masterfully placed for their beneficial, restful effects.
To deeply appreciate Hakone ~ or your own garden refuge close to home ~ visit it in Spring and Summer, Fall and Winter to see the remarkable seasonal changes of nature and to reflect on the meaning of Zen Master Tenkei’s words:
See with your eyes, hear
with your ears.
Nothing is hidden.
Hakone Gardens in Saratoga, California, is one of twelve sites in the United States to receive the Save America’s Treasures Award, given by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Weekly Image ~ top rt ~ Kasuga Lantern
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What a beautiful treasure you’ve shared. I had no idea that such a peace-filled and beautiful location was right in our own backyard. I’ll have to go visit.