This was an excellent place to visit. Museum was so-so; included a ten-minute movie on the museum and life of its founder, George Morikami. There were very few beautiful paintings and lacquer pieces, but what was there was astounding. There was an exhibit regarding what the Japanese do for fun, which was very good, and highly authentic. The gardens, however, are what impressed me the most. Beginning with authentic Japanese architectural motifs like styled bridges, lanterns, et al, the garden follows a long path of beautiful plants and exotic flowers, winding along a beautiful man-made pond. There are even several Zen rock gardens, and a pond with orange and white Koi fish, about two feet long. Finishing off is an authentic tea house. Truly a wonderful experience! Students can get in for $6! There is also a very good Japanese cafe onsite, with a great view of the gardens. I recommend the Miso soup; sushi and other Asian delights (I ordered the chicken curry) are available, too.

We spent about 2hrs here on a saturday morning, but should have spent more. Possibly the most beautiful garden I've ever visited. It all encompasses a fairly large lake, the pathways are manicured with pebbles, picturesque bridges, and the more than frequent bench. Theres not too much color, but the lushness of the gardens, as well as the tranquility the gardens somehow magically create are more than enough to set ones soul at ease. There are definate styles or maybe periods of gardening that we strolled through, and each is strangely unique. The best was the colection of bonsai trees. Theres an array of wildlife around the lake, Koi, birds, etc. They try really hard to capture the history of it all, but it was a little confusing and uninteresting to me. Theres also a fine looking library of all things asian, and a small museum of artifacts to browse. I wish we would have taken time to eat at the cafe.

Not only were the gardens beautiful but we appreciated learning the history of the Japanese community in the area. The bonzai garden was one of the best I've seen and feeding the huge koi was fun. The orchid society gardens on the adjacent property were also worth a visit with spectacular orchids in the greenhouse.

We arrived late in the day, so we didn't have time to do anything except tour the gardens, but I suspect that is the best part anyway. It is difficult to describe in print the effect this place has on the visitor. Don't miss it.