Post 3

My initial reaction after seeing the gardens was that there were just so many things to talk about because I had taken in so much that my brain was jumping all over the place. Firstly, going into the gardens is an overwhelming experience just because there is nothing like being out in nature that can resemble the feelings of peace and serenity that washes over you. Having been out in the city with a bunch of people and cars, city noise; it was so nice to walk around where everything was quiet even though there was a lot of people there still. Everyone there knew that this space was a place to show respect and enlighten themselves. Secondly, I am not a nature person but seeing the koi fish gliding through the water, the other water features, and viewing the patterns in the sand gardens, I had a very enjoyable time. The large canopy of trees made the hot day more bearable as I walked the little paths under them. They had places to sit to enjoy the garden and little miniature gardens within those. And lastly, I was able to connect and see how Japanese people really respect nature and how they value its gifts. The fact that the garden is so big, the vibe and atmosphere is calming and respectful, many can come from all around and no matter their backgrounds of identity or what’s going on in their own lives, everyone can come together to enjoy the gardens.