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Description:
The oldest attraction at the Springfield Botanical Gardens, The 7.5 acre, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll garden was created in 1986 and includes 3 large koi lakes, moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house and traditional Japanese garden landscape. The plan was inspired by a Fort Worth, Texas copy of the Garden of the Abbot’s Quarters in Kyoto. The garden was initiated by the superintendent of park operations, Bill Payne, in the early 1980s and supported with partnerships from the Springfield Sister Cities Association, The Southwest District of Federated Garden Clubs, The Botanical Society of Southwest Missouri and the Friends of the Garden. The garden was given the name Mizumoto in 2004, in honor of Yuriko Mizumoto Scott. She generously acts as a bridge between her native Japan and her home in the Ozarks. As the first Japanese War bride brought back to the United States, her insight has the breadth of a bi-cultural history. Mrs. Mizumoto Scott spent many years as a volunteer in garden maintenance and hosting tour groups. She has also conducted hundreds of tea ceremonies and explained the customs of Japan.1
The gardens are maintained by the Friends of the Garden Japanese Gardening Group and Park staff. Gardens are supported by the Springfield Sister Cities Association Isesaki Committee.
Private Tours available: 417-891-1515 or www.parkboard.org/botanical/education.htm. Japanese Garden Pavilion Rentals available: 417-891-1515 or www.parkboard.org/botanical/rentals.htm
1 Data & photos submitted by Katie Steinhoff, Botanical Center Coordinator, Springfield-Greene County Park Board
