The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden in Springfield, Missouri is described as a stroll garden, but it also has many other elements of Japanese gardens within. It is 7.5 acres total, and has .5 mile pathway for strolling. Created in 1986, the garden includes 3 large koi lakes, a moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house and traditional Japanese garden landscape features. The garden was given the name Mizumoto in 2004, in honor of Yuriko Mizumoto Scott, who spent many years as a volunteer in the garden, hosted tour groups, and conducted tea ceremonies.
Not only was this garden large, it was a perfect example of a Japanese stroll garden. In addition, it was very well maintained, especially given its size.
I especially found the Moon Bridge feature to be very well designed and beautiful. Only the Fort Worth Japanese Garden comes close to creating such a well designed Moon Bridge feature.
The tea house was also constructed in an authentic manner and its central location in the garden made it a relaxing place from which to take in several views.
Overall, the features in the garden all complement each other and work as excellent exemplar of a Japanese garden. Its well worth spending a full day visit.
