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It is obvious the
gardens were designed with care, the trees isolate you from the
city making it difficult to see most of the nearby skyscrapers and
blocking out noise from the streets. The garden contains a large
artificial lake full of friendly goldfish (carp) which will swim
toward any person near the water and beg for food. (Tiny bags of
fish food can be bought at the concession stand.) Surrounding the
lake is a variety of plant life, including Cherry Blossom Trees and
four Ginkgo Biwolf Trees. The Ginkgo Biwolf Tree is called the tree
of life, because it is believed that it has existed since the Dinosaur
age.
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Koi-Carp Begging for Food |
Red Bridge at the Japanese Gardens |
Crossing the lake is
a bright red bridge which is a popular photo spot for couples and
families. There are also small piers which allow you to get closer to
the water and the fish. One pier is very skinny without much of a railing
and people have to squeeze by each other as they walk from one end to
the other. So be careful and courteous; no one wants to go for a
swim.
In one corner of the
garden are several small monuments to the various Japanese princes and
princesses who have visited Buenos Aires over the years. Next to the
monuments there is a small stage where you can catch a Japanese Puppet
Show. There is also a small stand where traditional Japanese games
are sold.
In the back of the
Jardin Japonés is a cultural center and restaurant. The Japanese
Cultural Center has Japanese Art on the walls, a lookout point and a
gallery to display various exhibits. At the time I visited the
gardens there were a variety of Kimonos by Kasuriya on display in the
Cultural Center. While you are visiting the Japanese Cultural Center
ask for a calendar. The Jardin Japonés mission is to educate the
public about the Japanese culture; so, there are always a variety of
events taking place, from Origami lessons to lectures on Japanese
history. |
