Few People Know There’s A Peaceful Japanese Tea Garden Hiding Right Here In Indiana
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published July 17, 2019
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
For a glimpse of the beauty of Japan, you don’t have to leave the state. There’s a marvelous Japanese tea garden hiding in Mishawaka, Indiana that has everything you need to experience a different culture in a nutshell. Check it out:
Shiojiri Niwa in northern Indiana is a 1.3-acre Japanese Garden that does not get nearly enough attention. Dedicated in 1987, it is one of only a few of this style of garden in the whole state.
Though there are many wonderful features to enjoy, one of the most popular and tranquil is the Japanese tea garden. This pavilion-like structure is surrounded by lovely trees and outstanding landscaping.
This tiny teahouse is hidden amongst the other charming features of this unique garden. There are all sorts of bridges, benches, boulders, and other features nearby.
This Japanese tea garden provides the utmost peace and calmness. From inside the teahouse, you'll enjoy a secluded space from which you can enjoy all the views.
This Japanese tea garden is so lovely and special to those who visit that some choose to get married here. Weddings can take place at various spots throughout this amazing garden.
Other features of this wonderful place include a giant zen garden, a zig-zag bridge, dry waterfalls, and sculptures. Of course, there are also a plethora of different plant species to admire.
You'll be instantly transported to a whole new world when you visit this tiny paradise. Hoosiers don't have to go all the way to Japan to experience some of its culture.
Shiojiri Garden is open Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and you can get more details on its web page on the city of Mishawaka’s website. If you’ve ever been to this Japenese tea garden, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
Address: 1000 East Mishawaka Avenue, Mishawaka, IN, 46544