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Anderson Japanese Gardens: A Midwestern Oasis

Discover tranquility and cultural beauty at Anderson Japanese Gardens, a top-rated Japanese garden in Rockford, Illinois.

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Escape to the serene Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois, a 12-acre haven of tranquility inspired by traditional Japanese design. Wander through meticulously crafted landscapes featuring koi ponds, waterfalls, and winding paths, offering a peaceful retreat from the everyday.

A brief summary to Anderson Japanese Gardens

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a serene experience with fewer crowds.
  • Purchase fish food at the Visitor Center to feed the koi in the ponds.
  • Check the event calendar for cultural events and tea ceremonies.
  • Consider visiting on the third Thursday of the month for Donation Day, where donations are accepted in lieu of admission.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, just east of the Rock River and north of downtown. It is easily accessible from I-90 and I-39. Parking is available on-site. Be aware that parking lots can fill up quickly during peak times, with off-site parking available at the College of Medicine with a complimentary shuttle service. There is no fee for parking.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Anderson Japanese Gardens. The nearest bus station is Parkview @ U Of I College Of Medicine-Sec-Outbound, which is a 9-minute walk away. Bus lines that stop near the gardens include 04, 11, 13, and 22. A single ride on Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) buses costs $1.75.

Unlock the Best of Anderson Japanese Gardens

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Discover more about Anderson Japanese Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens, located in Rockford, Illinois, offers a serene escape into a world of meticulously designed Japanese landscape. Founded in 1978 by Rockford businessman John Anderson, inspired by the Portland Japanese Garden, the gardens were created with the help of master craftsman Hoichi Kurisu. What began as a swampy backyard has been transformed into an award-winning 12-acre landscape that exemplifies the beauty and tranquility of Japanese garden design. The gardens feature a 13th-century "pond strolling" garden, complete with winding paths, carefully placed rocks, and diverse plantings including Japanese maples and cloud pines. Water features are abundant, with cascading waterfalls, gentle streams, and serene koi ponds. Traditional Japanese architecture is showcased throughout, including a Sukiya-style tea house and guest house. The Garden of Reflection provides a contemporary contrast, featuring bronze angel sculptures. Visitors can explore the gardens at their own pace or take a docent-led tour to learn more about the history, design, and symbolism of the various elements. The gardens also host a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including tea ceremonies, artist workshops, and the Japanese Summer Festival. Fresco at the Gardens, the on-site restaurant, offers fresh, locally sourced food with Asian-inspired options. Anderson Japanese Gardens is more than just a garden; it's a place for healing, renewal, and inspiration.

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