Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens — Attraction in Delray Beach

I wanted to share my experience with the Morikami Museum regarding an inquiry for a small wedding ceremony. My fiancé and I got engaged in Japan on April 7th, and because the Morikami reminded us so much of that special time, I was hoping to bring a piece of Japan home by hosting our ceremony there. Unfortunately, the experience from start to finish was very disappointing.

I began reaching out to the venue back in April through both phone and email (emails attached), but I never received a response, not from the main office or the rental manager Alana whose contact information was provided. It wasn’t until my mother-in-law made several follow-up calls that we were finally able to schedule a visit for September 27th at 1:30 PM.

We traveled from Miami and arrived early, around 1 PM. We checked in and were asked to wait on a bench, but no one came over to acknowledge us, update us, or even let us know they were having issues. At 1:27 PM, I approached the front desk to ask if anyone would be meeting with us, and only then did Julia come over. We were told there had been an issue with a golf cart, but a simple heads-up would have gone a long way, we just sat there without any communication.

During the tour, Julia showed us several ceremony spots, and I specifically asked about having access to a dressing room, which she showed us. I made it clear I was flexible with dates but wanted that included in the proposal. She told us she’d email available dates later that day, but we didn’t hear back until the following Tuesday, only after more follow-ups from my mother-in-law. The initial dates didn’t include the dressing room, so I had to wait an additional two days for clarification.

By Thursday, Julia finally sent over the proposal and payment information. The deposit was listed as $200, but I was told this was in addition to the proposal price, not applied toward it. She also mentioned that 50% of the total package would be charged automatically within 15 days of paying the deposit, which had never been explained to us before. When I asked where this was stated on their website, she said she’d check with her manager. Later, she called back to say they could do a payment plan instead.

The issue was never the cost, the proposal total was $795, but the lack of clarity and transparency. A deposit should be part of the total, not an extra charge on top. Between the lack of communication, delayed responses, and confusing payment structure, I ultimately decided not to move forward.

I’ve since booked with another venue closer to home, where communication was prompt, warm, and transparent. I wouldn’t recommend Morikami Museum for anyone looking for a smooth or attentive...

Our family has a special interest in bonsai’s and the Japanese culture. How fortunate we were to discover the Morikami Museum and Gardens on a trip to Delray Beach.

We arrived at 11:00 on a stunning Sunday: sunshine and cool weather with a slight breeze. The parking lot was already filled so we parked in overflow parking a short distance from the entrance. Others have suggested visiting during the week if possible. I agree. The walk around the lake is gravel, the reason other reviews have mentioned wearing close-toed shoes.

We took advantage of the senior ($13.98) and military admission($14.95) rates. Once paid and given admission bracelets, we received a map and brief orientation by a helpful docent. The two-sided map details 25 stops around the lake, an easy .5 mile walk dotted with many benches and places to stop and absorb the beautiful views.

Two restrooms are available in the registration building and another along the path around the lake. We were not at all bothered by bugs or mosquitoes in late February.

We enjoyed learning more about the bonsai culture in the Morikami Bonsai Collection. Bonsai, literally, “tray-planting” are trees or groupings of trees artistically-shaped and cultivated in a container. It was interesting to learn the date each tree was grown and then the year it was put “in training” to become a specific bonsai shape.

Rock gardens, bridges, islands, bridges, waterfalls, gates, displays, koi, basking turtles and more will keep you enchanted and visually inspired. Don’t forget to seek out the Buddha, Hotei, the resident god of happiness. He’s not as large as anticipated.

We did walk through the gift shop which was expensive. We left 1:00 pm. I was hoping to get a highly-recommended Bento Box but we didn’t have enough time to wait in the long line at...

Nestled in the heart of Delray Beach, Florida, lies a breathtaking Japanese garden that transports visitors to a tranquil oasis of beauty and serenity. This garden is a true masterpiece of horticulture and landscape design, showcasing a stunning array of exotic plants, elegant water features, and majestic koi fish.

As you enter the garden, you are greeted by a lush, verdant landscape of perfectly manicured trees, shrubs, and flowers, arranged in a carefully crafted balance of color and texture. You may notice the unique Japanese influences throughout the garden, such as the use of traditional elements like stone lanterns, bridges, and pagodas.

As you explore deeper into the garden, you will encounter several serene ponds filled with vibrant koi fish gracefully swimming in the crystal-clear water. These colorful fish are a beloved feature of Japanese gardens, known for their symbolic significance in Japanese culture, representing perseverance and good fortune.

As you continue your journey through the garden, you will be surrounded by a variety of beautiful plants, including bamboo, azaleas, camellias, and wisteria, all carefully chosen for their visual appeal and their ability to thrive in the Florida climate.

Overall, this Japanese garden in Delray Beach is a true masterpiece of design, showcasing the beauty and harmony of nature in a way that is both peaceful and inspiring. Whether you are a nature lover, a fan of Japanese culture, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, this garden is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.

You can eat at the local restaurant, reasonable prices...