After new redesigns and site enhancements have been made, Carmel’s Kawachinagano Japanese Garden has officially reopened to the public. This garden is one of the only few places in Indiana where you can see cherry blossoms, or sakura. Keep reading to learn more about the redesign process and what cherry blossoms can bring to your life!
Celebrate Sister City, Kawachinagano, Japan at the Japan SpringFest on May 3. Enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine, cultural performances cosplay photo-ops and hands-on, family friendly activities.
What are cherry blossoms and their significance?
Cherry blossoms, also known as sakura in Japanese, are tied to Japan’s history, culture and identity. Throughout March to May, visitors can see the flower in its fullest bloom all the way until the flowers fall. Originally meant to divine harvest, it shares a deeper reminder that life is beautiful, but also short, just like the cherry blossoms’ life cycle.
What new redesigns were made to the Kawachinagano Japanese Garden?
Visitors can expect to see refinements to the pond, enhancements to the northern garden area, and improved stormwater capacity to support long-term sustainability. Another phase of improvements to the new southern pond will be implemented later this year.
Who worked on the redesigns?
The project would not have been possible without a great group of collaborators. Hoichi Kurisu, former landscape director for the Japanese Garden Society in Oregon, led the redesign. The City of Carmel and Clay Township funded the garden design and construction with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation to oversee its long-term maintenance.
When will the park open and who can visit?
The park is open daily and free to the public from dawn to dusk. A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for the spring.
