Rockford, Illinois
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Established in 1978 by industrialist John R. Anderson, it was inspired by Anderson’s trips to Japan and his visit to Portland’s Japanese Garden. Japanese landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu assisted Anderson with the design and today this beautiful 12-acre garden is regarded as one of the highest-quality Japanese garden in North America.The Gardens are in the traditional style known as Chisen Kai Yu Shiki, which appeared in Japan primarily during the Edo period, from the 16th to 19th centuries, and is characterized as a Strolling Pond or Lake Garden style. The Garden of Reflection is a contemporary international garden with a strong Japanese influence. Open daily, May 1- October 31. [ info ]