Nitobe Memorial Garden — Attraction in Electoral Area A

Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese Tea and Stroll garden is located at the University of British Columbia.

It is considered to be one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in N. America and among the top five Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

It includes a rare authentic Tea Garden with a ceremonial Tea House.

“I am in Japan,” said Akihito, Crown Prince (now Emperor) of Japan as he walked through the garden.

Who is Inazo Nitobe?

Born 09-01-1862, dies on 10-15-1933, Dr. Nitobe was an agriculturalist, scholar, Quaker, philosopher, statesman and educator, educated at Sapporo Agricultural College, University of Tokyo, Johns Hopkins and University of Halle (Germany).

Early in his life he expressed the desire to be a “bridge over the Pacific” and he devoted much of his life to promoting trust and understanding between the United States and Japan.

Landscape architects and gardeners recommended by the Government of Japan created the exquisite garden out of one hectare of pristine forest.

The garden honors Inazo Nitobe (1862-1933) whose goal was “to become a bridge across the Pacific.”

Each tree, stone and shrub has been carefully placed and maintained to reflect an idealized representation of nature, harmony among natural forms – waterfalls, rivers, forests, islands and seas – and a balance of masculine and feminine forces traditionally attributed to natural elements.

Native trees and shrubs are trained and pruned in typical Japanese fashion to incorporate unique features.

Some maple / cherry trees, most of the azaleas / iris were brought from Japan. A place of reflection, where each step reveals a new harmony, the garden is designed to suggest a span of time – a day, a week or a lifetime – with a beginning, choice of paths and ending.

We were enchanted by Nitobe Garden but did not have time to take a tour. In spring there are cherry blossoms; summer for the irises or autumn for the maples, making sure that Nitobe Memorial Garden is enjoyed throughout the year. A reflecting pond with Koi, streams and waterfalls, stone lanterns and even a teahouse contribute to a unique and...

Nestled within the serene expanse of the Western-Pacific forest, the Nitobe Memorial Garden stands as a small picturesque oasis, its beauty and tranquility captivating all who visit. Renowned as one of the top five authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, it is conceived as a tribute to Dr. Inazō Nitobe (1862-1933)whose goal was “to become a bridge across the Pacific.” He dedicated his life to promoting Japanese culture during a time when it remained enigmatic and foreign to many in the Western world.

Every element within the garden exudes a sense of serenity and harmony. From the meticulously cultivated Japanese trees to the carpets of moss adorning the landscape in various shapes and hues, from the elegant bridges spanning the koi pond to the stone paths that gracefully traverse the enchanting waterfalls, each component contributes to an atmosphere of tranquility, inviting visitors to unwind and contemplate their place in the world.

A notable feature of the garden is its authentic tea house, a testament to Japanese tradition and culture. Although visitors may only admire its elegance from the exterior, the tea house adds an air of authenticity to the overall experience.

Personally, I found immense pleasure in the melodic symphony of the gentle waterfalls and the captivating array of moss varieties. It truly provided a sensory delight and evoked a deep sense of appreciation for...

Is your life stressful? Are there just too many things to think about? Do you need time away from the business of this world? This beautiful and peaceful area of Vancouver will aid you and inspire you to calm your life down. Sit near the rough and rigid rocks throughout the garden that were imported to Vancouver from Lake Tai in Chinese. The rocks are believed to evoke supernatural powers and entice lucky spirits into the garden. Head over to the waters edge (but don't feed the fish - it pollutes the water) and still your mind with the jade green water that is intentionally cloudy for reflection. The water symbolizes tranquility. Take some time to observe the plants in the garden area that symbolize the human virtues of strength and eternity, resiliency amid diversity, and triumphal rebirth. The pine trees are sculpted to invoke your interpretation. I would suggest going to the pavilion in the middle of the garden, take a seat, and spend some time meditating and just being with yourself. Close your eyes for 5-10 minutes and just breathe without thinking. Open your eyes and meditate on the beauty of your surroundings. Close your eyes again and thank your deity or spiritual leader for allowing you to experience life in a different way and...