Wedding in the Garden

Jennifer and Tyler tie the knot at the Garden with Channel 12 News filming! The weather was, let's see...a bit of a challenge (overcast and rainy). But right at 2:00 p.m. it stopped raining and the sky brightened over the couple! It was a beautiful ceremony and everyone enjoyed the day in the Garden. Congratulations to the very happy couple!

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December in the Garden

It was a beautiful December morning and here in Phoenix, there was a feeling of fall in the air. The trees take on new hues and the Garden appears new and vibrant (no matter how many visits you have enjoyed!). The sun's rays are soft and warm and a fuzzy sweater feels good to ward off any chill. With the holidays fast approaching, you might like to plan to bring your family and friends by to spend some quiet time in the Garden. And memberships are a truly thoughtful (and welcome!) gift; just ask at the Gift Shop.

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Early Morning in the Garden

Morning at the Japanese Friendship Garden is so beautiful! Just a few shots to share this beauty with everyone...the gorgeous shades of green all around and the lush new lawn all lend to the feelings of serenity you experience as you stroll the path.

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Otsukimi Moonviewing Festival 2011

Everyone enjoyed the evening and even the temps cooled down for us. The thunder of taiko perfectly complimented the sincerity of poetry reading. From the youngest Ondo Japanese folkdancer to the expertise of Iaido swordsmen, the entertainment was exciting. A sake toast to an evening of authentic Japanese festivities and delicious fare! And yes, the moon did finally appear just before nine. Thank you for coming to share the evening...special thanks to everyone who made this event happen!

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Opening Day Ceremony 2011

Opening Day Ceremony 2011 was a lovely celebration of our new season! Taiko drumming caught everyone's attention, ladies in kimono were eye-catching, and a ribbon-cutting finalized the newly built misu-gaki. A memorial dedication and the blessing of the Garden were solemn yet special. Arigato (thank you) to everyone who made this event happen and to all who shared this special time with us! We look forward to seeing you on the peaceful path throughout the season.

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JFG Clean-Up Day

The date draws near for our Opening Day Ceremony so a garden clean-up was in order! There was a flurry of activity throughout the Garden starting at 6:00 am as many volunteers arrived, ready to work. Our City of Phoenix colleagues joined us and so, hundreds of plants are now in the ground, raking and sweeping took away loads of debris, branches were pruned, the drip system repaired, and the new bamboo fence is well underway. THANK YOU to all our voluteers today...JACL members, new friends, and our faithful team...for all you did to make the Garden look amazing!

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Matsuri Steering Committee Commendation

There was a feeling of excitement in the room on Friday evening, August 19, 2011, as Consul General Junichi Ihara presented the Foreign Minister's Commendation to the Arizona Matsuri Steering Committeee, with Co-Chairs Ted Namba and Doris Asano accepting. Japan's Ministry of Foriegn Affairs selected the Matsuri Committee in recognition for its contributions in promoting friendship between Japan and Arizona. It was also Consul General Ihara's last meeting in Arizona before his return to Japan. Congratulations, Matsuri Steering Committee!

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