Craving a moment of serenity amidst the urban bustle? Look no further than the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a hidden gem nestled within the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus in Vancouver.
This stunning Japanese garden ☺️💓offers a haven of peace and tranquility, transporting you to a world of meticulously crafted landscapes and serene beauty.
A Gift of Friendship
Did you know that the Nitobe Memorial Garden is a symbol of friendship between Canada and Japan?
Gifted to Canada in 1958, the garden was designed by renowned professor Kannosuke Mori, a true master of his craft!
Stepping into the garden is akin to stepping into a living masterpiece.
Every element, from the meticulously placed rocks to the simple lovely streams of water, has been thoughtfully arranged to create a sense of harmony and balance.
My Experience at Nitobe Memorial Garden
Recently, I embarked on a solo nature walk, seeking a refuge from the daily grind. As I arrived at the UBC campus, the autumn air was such a vibe 🥰.
The staff at the Nitobe Memorial Garden ticket booth were incredibly kind and informative, providing a warm welcome to this peaceful sanctuary.
While I arrived at 11 am, the garden was already starting to fill with visitors.
For those seeking absolute silence and minimal human contact in nature walks, it’s important to be aware that the garden can be quite popular, especially with student groups. As I meandered through the paths, I overheard conversations about photography projects, suggesting the garden’s allure extends beyond the realm of tranquility.
A Glimpse of Japanese Tradition
One of the most captivating elements of the Nitobe Memorial Garden is the central pond, a haven for vibrant koi fish.
Watching them gracefully swim along, made me so calm and soothed.
Tucked away within the garden’s embrace lies a small tea house, a sight that sparked my curiosity. As a lover of traditional tea ceremonies, I couldn’t help but wish to enjoy a cup of tea surrounded by this meticulously crafted landscape🥲
Unfortunately, the tea house is currently closed to the public and can only be accessed through reservations for tea ceremonies.
Fueling the Adventure: A Coffee Break at Wicked Cafe
Before embarking on my exploration of the Nitobe Memorial Garden, I made a stop at the nearby Wicked Cafe. And I got myself a warm latte with a touch of brown sugar + bravea style.
Wicked Cafe roasts our own coffee beans and is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, even on holidays.
As a side note,
the location I visited was the West Point Gray location, a convenient stop before immersing myself in the serenity of the Nitobe Memorial Garden.
A Community of Kindness
My experience at the Nitobe Memorial Garden wasn’t solely defined by the beauty of the landscape.
The spirit of UBC’s vibrant community made a significant impact on my visit. As I was capturing the beauty of the garden for myself, several passersby generously offered to take my photo.
Their willingness to spare a moment to help a stranger truly embodies the warmth and kindness that UBC fosters.
Planning Your Visit to the Nitobe Memorial Garden
Feeling inspired to explore this haven of tranquility?
Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: University of British Columbia, Vancouver 1895 Lower Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
- Opening Hours: 10am – 2pm Tuesday-Friday
- Admission Fee: Approximately $7 (subject to change)
Respecting the Garden
The Nitobe Memorial Garden is a place of peace and reflection.
To ensure everyone can enjoy its beauty, kindly follow these simple guidelines:
- Stay on designated paths to avoid damaging the delicate landscapes.
- Maintain a respectful volume to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
- Leave no trace behind – dispose of any waste responsibly in designated bins.
Beyond the Garden: Exploring UBC
The Nitobe Memorial Garden is just one of the many treasures waiting to be discovered at UBC. The university boasts a beautiful campus with a vibrant atmosphere. Consider dedicating a full day to explore UBC, and perhaps visit the Museum of Anthropology or take a stroll through the nearby Pacific Spirit Regional Park.
Final Note
The Nitobe Memorial Garden is more than just a garden; it’s a portal to a world of tranquility and cultural immersion.
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