Campus Nature
This traditional Japanese garden is an exquisite example of fine zen craftsmanship in the karesansui (or dry-landscape) style of garden. It features natural elements symbolizing the Three Laughers of the Tiger Glen, an ancient story about overcoming differences. Located at the Johnson Museum in a small and quiet corner of campus, this space is well worth a visit.
Highlights
The garden symbolizes the Chinese legend of the Three Laughers of the Tiger Glen, with the protagonists represented by three upright boulders. A cleft through a field of moss represents the ravine, the bottom of which is lined with small stones to evoke the torrent. The sound of running water in the nearby stone basin accompanies visual illusion of running water in the ravine. There are twelve species of mosses in the garden, and a large Japanese red pine tree called a Tanyosho. The tree is pruned and its bark polished each year to maintain its form and luster.
Entrance
The garden can be accessed from the sidewalk along University Avenue. It is always open for walking through by visitors, except when severe weather conditions require that it be closed. The garden can also be viewed from the interior of the Johnson Museum wing during regular museum hours.