The Takasaki Japanese garden is located within Irving Park (across from the Bronson Battle Creek Hospital) in Battle Creek, Michigan. A sister city relationship between Battle Creek and Takasaki started in 1981 and the Japanese garden was established in 1986.
I was unable to locate any specific information or history about this garden online.
The entry has an impressive Torii gate that opens up to a pathway and another smaller gate.
Another lantern, missing its top piece, is also located along the side entrance to the garden.
The main viewing structure was a very nice feature within this garden and had some nice design elements including a moon window and rustic beams incorporated into the inner roof frame.
The view from within provided scenic views of the main courtyard as well as the adjacent pond.
A small Chōzubachi water basin is a nice feature within the courtyard area, but alas, it has no water element and simply sits there as an ornament.
This garden was very well planed and implemented. It complements its surroundings and makes excellent use of the nearby pond. The features it contains also work well within the garden - there are not too many elements. Those present offer an authentic experience for anyone wanting visit a Japanese garden.
The garden could use some attention and upkeep. The fact that it was being occupied by a homeless person during my visit was unfortunate (some photos above had been edited). Especially distressing was the fact that a Christian hospital sits directly across the street and could easily take steps to help the unfortunate individual just steps from their doors. There was also evidence of minor vandalism. Perhaps the city can take steps to ensure that the garden retains its original intent and beauty. Doing so would ensure its continued enjoyment by all who visit.
