Normandale Japanese Garden — Attraction in Bloomington

I can’t believe I didn’t know there was a Japanese garden in the Twin Cities metro area until recently. After learning about this garden on TikTok, I knew I had to make the trip to Bloomington to check it out.

I love that it’s a free activity with ample free parking and nestled in a quiet part of Bloomington. The short walk to the garden through the Normandale campus is lovely, and I enjoyed the sculptures I saw along the way. The garden is so serene, well-maintained, and unlike anything else in the area.

I adored the waterfall, different tree varieties, koi fish, and bridges. Twin Cities air quality was awful today, so I didn’t spend a long time here, but under different circumstances, I could’ve stayed for a long time. It’s small but spacious garden, and there are plenty of spots to relax.

Would 100%...

A hidden gem and worth the discovery. This lovely Japanese garden is tucked behind Normandale Community College. There is no admission of charge, but donations are appreciated. There are also plenty of free parking spaces.

Right after entering the wooden gates, you’ll find a shelter to the left with information about the garden.

As you continue walking on the path you will find that the garden is built around a lagoon with koi fish swimming throughout. There is a loop path with a central pond. It also features islands, a bentendo, a small waterfall, lantern sculptures, bridges, plants, trees, and shrubs. It’s very therapeutic and you can easily spend anywhere from a half hour to an hour there.

Recommended for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful place to wind down, relax,...

These pictures don't capture the full beauty of this Japanese garden, especially on a rainy day. Even in the rain, it's stunning. These snapshots don't even show the most breathtaking parts. This garden is one of my favorite spots to walk through and connect with nature. Sometimes, I bring books to read there. It's free to enter, but I encourage you to use the small donation boxes.

What’s there to like? The garden boasts more than 300 plants, shrubs, and trees, along with koi fish that you can feed, a waterfall, several bridges, and more. Designed by architect Takao Watanabe, it's impressive, especially when you consider that all these plants are chosen to survive our harsh Minnesota winters. It's a perfect blend of human and...