In the heart of Saginaw’s central park system is the Japanese Cultural Center, a carefully maintained scenic garden and teahouse dedicated to relaxation and cultural understanding. Stroll around the maze-like garden, relax by the water and enjoy a bowl of traditional green tea.
The strolling garden was first opened in 1971. The teahouse was constructed later following designs by Yataro Suzue and Lori Barber. This space was established as a symbol of friendship and cultural exchange between Saginaw and the city of Tokushima, which have maintained a sister-city relationship for over 50 years. Keep this spirit of openness in mind as you explore the 3 acres (1 hectare) of lovely green space.
Take note of each feature in the carefully designed garden, both natural and man-made. The original designer defined beauty as “not trickery, not illusion...but arranging elements like trees, water and rocks in a way that there is no crowding, no competition for attention.” Admire the careful layout of the weeping cherry trees and yew bushes, traditional stone lanterns and elegant bamboo gates creating that simple beauty.
Look for the rock garden formations throughout the gardens. Here smaller pebbles symbolize waves breaking on larger rocks, which represent the ocean. Elsewhere you can see a red arched bridge over a stream and a charming Japanese-style gazebo.
Head to the teahouse, Awa SaginawAn, for a cultural experience of a different kind. This impressive structure was built by specialist Japanese carpenters who did so without the use of a single nail. Enjoy a bowl of green tea and a sweet treat while a trained docent provides background on the tea ceremony and the building. On the second Saturday of each month, a formal tea ceremony is held call ahead for reservations.
Find the Japanese Cultural Center on the shore of Lake Linton, just west of the Saginaw Children’s Zoo. Parking is available in the center’s parking lot on South Washington Drive. The gardens and teahouse are open in the afternoons on Tuesday to Saturday from April to October. Access the gardens for free.