Since my last visit in 2013, the garden had been renovated. The year long renovation in 2015 had been much needed. This garden was one of the more famous Japanese gardens in North America and it is wonderful to see that the renovation reflects its importance.
Website: http://www.mfa.org/collections/featured-galleries/japanese-garden-tenshin-en
The layout of the garden did not change much. All of the hardscape remained intact with only plants being adjusted.
The gate looks similar to the original, but the new materials should last a significant amount of time.
It was amazing to see the difference in how the plantings were modified and are now maintained.
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| 2013 - pre renovation |
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| 2017 - post renovation |
It is amazing how just a few steps in a different direction can dramatically change a view.
One can also enter the museum and from the second floor get a great view of the garden from above.
The renovations were very well done. There was some need for plant maintenance in some places, but I am sure the garden will be cared for in the fall and early spring, a better time to view the garden as it transitions to and from different seasons. I would recommend a afternoon visit - afternoon light will hit the garden from an angle that will eliminate the large shadow cast halfway across the garden during early and mid day.
