The Doris Japanese Garden is a small Japanese-inspired garden located within the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area in Los Angeles, California. The garden was created in the 1980s during an expansion of the larger recreation area.
The garden has several features that reflect Japanese garden design, including a large gated entryway, two arched red bridges, a large metal torii gate, two small interconnected lotus ponds, and a variety of turtles and koi.
Unfortunately, the design lacks authenticity. Although technically a stroll garden, the pond appeared poorly maintained, and the bridges were in such a state of disrepair that metal fencing had been installed to prevent pedestrian access.
Several of the lanterns throughout the garden were also damaged.
Overall, the garden is in a serious state of disrepair and is in need of maintenance. Steps have recently been taken to address the garden's condition, perhaps even a comprehensive redesign. The foundation for a good stroll garden exists, but many of the existing elements feel inauthentic and are in need of restoration. Most importantly, the garden would benefit from additional planting to make the walk around the pond a more engaging and rewarding experience.
