ReeHart – Blogging from the Heart

Posts Tagged ‘events’

Chances are, you’d be asking for the Sunken Gardens if you’re looking for this place, since that is what others call this Japanese Garden in San Antonio, Texas. The reason for the term is because the gardens are located inside an abandoned limestone quarry. If you can’t find the place, ask for “Chinese Tea Garden Gate”. It’s what they used in the registrations.

The Japanese gardens had a long hard history. Starting first as a quarry, it had been developed into a garden under the direction of the city. Several companies had bloomed under the park with the workers also benefiting. The theme of being Japanese was added later on when the basic outlays were introduced. The funds from different donors came, where the extensive outlays were introduced.

Due to World War II, most of its benefactors have been extradited and sent back to Japan. The whole place fell into disrepair and vandalism and it was not only until at least 2005 that serious action and renovation was spearheaded and led by the concerned citizens that did not wish the park to be closed down.

The park opened last March 2008, thanks to the continued efforts of Councilwoman Bonnie Conner. Through her campaign to protect and keep the park open, they were able to acquire enough funds to restore and renovate the park. The family that was extradited from the site, the Jingu family was able to come back after a few decades.

The Gardens have garnered several titles like the Texas Civil Engineering Landmark, Texas Historic Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, the gardens stand proud and tall, hosting to people who wish to experience the glamor and the intricacy of Japanese tea ceremonies. The gardens can be found at the Northwestern edge at Brackenridge Park, near the San Antonio Garden.