The garden was started by Fujituro Kubota, who emigrated from Japan in 1907, bought 5 acres of swampland, and started a garden design company. In 1930 he added 30 acres and used the property for his home, office and nursery. Here he created a Japanese garden with waterfalls and pools and an extensive arboretum.
In 1987 the property was purchased by the City of Seattle. Over the years, and most dramatically in the last ten years, the garden has been cared for and groomed and improved to the stunning jewel that it is today. But it is the plants and the pools and the design of Kubota that still enchant visitors.
It was raining lightly as we gathered together to start our self-guided tour. We had set the date expecting the azaleas and rhododendrons to be in full bloom, but our early spring caused many shrubs to be past bloom. That didn't prevent us from loving all that we saw, and seeking out every trail so we wouldn't miss anything.
Here we go. We'll start at the new garden gate.
Anyway, if you live anywhere near this area, you must visit Kubota Garden!
It truly is beautiful. I love the red bridge and the pictures of Irene. Not to mention all the amazing trees and plants. :-)
ReplyDeleteI do believe Irene is the most beautiful sight. You got some good shots of her you should flag for future use. I believe she is going to be a long skinny foot like her mom. I notice feet because I've always had these long skinny feet to deal with. I thought the fringe tree was fascinating. Japanese maples are always a favorite and there seems to be so many kinds. That is indeed a beautiful garden.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous!! Our cherry blossoms didn't do well this year either, it's been too cold and wet.
ReplyDeleteWill have to check on the rhodo blooms.
There is nothing more beautiful, restful and serene than a Japanese garden. Irene will love looking back at these pictures and remembering this day. Good job.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome place with it's color and shape put to use in the design. I like the way the slopes are used for display.
ReplyDeleteStunning garden! Love to visit it sometime. The bridge reminds me of the one in Monet's garden at Giverny.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly took us on a beautiful tour despite the rain.
ReplyDeleteSo tranquil. I really enjoyed my virtual walk through with you.
ReplyDeleteA little rain would never stop gardeners. I am a huge foliage person and the Japanese gardens seem to have such amazing colors even with out blooms.
ReplyDeleteIrene looked quite modelesque.
Thanks for sharing that lovely park. And the pics of your lovely Irene!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I love all the bridges and walkways:)
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry we didn't get to go there. Ah well... It's good to leave something for us to return to visit another time. I love your header, by the way.
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