Monday, May 16, 2011

Taiko Explosion

Taiko EXPLOSION was awesome! The crowd was amazed and enjoyed the excitement as the tempo grew throughout the evening. An enchanting performance by the Arizona Gakuen School Choir was the perfect start leading to very powerful taiko drumming by Fushicho Daiko. Bidding goodbye to our esteemed "Queen of Taiko" was difficult but the evening was a fitting departure for Esther Vandecar. We will miss you, dear friend!

taiko drum


See more photos from the event here.

Monday, May 9, 2011

First Friday

Our last First Friday of the season was quite warm but that did not stop anyone from taking a stroll! (Who let that wolf in anyway?!) Thanks to all who came by to feed the koi, drink in the beauty, and simply relax in the peaceful serenity of the Garden. We are open until May 29, so please take a moment to stop by before then. See you on the path!

wolf, art walk


See more photos from the event here.

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Anime Contest 2011

This year's Anime Contest was small but the creativity was huge! Our winners included: 

  • Adult Color, Brandi K.
  • Teen Color, Yadira E.
  • Youth B&W, Katie C.
  • Youth Color, Kristen R.
Congratulations to ALL our participants! We look forward to seeing all your artwork next year at this annual event. Keep drawing and mark your calendar for early 2012!

manga, japanese cartoon,


See more photos from the event here.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Zen Garden Music and Art Festival

FINALLY! The Music Festival photos are here! And a great time was had by all...thanks to everyone who participated! Great crowd; great performances. Cannot wait to do it all again next year...and so an annual event is born!

singing, guitar

face paint, face painting, tiger, japanese umbrella


See more photos from the event here.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Children's Day & Kite Festival 2011

This year's Children's Day & Kite Festival in conjunction with Valley of the Sun Koi Club was delightful! Koi swimming, kites floating, cranes folded, turtles scooting...and so much more! The shave ice and the sprinkler were a hit to cool off a bit. And the taiko was great. Thanks to all who attended and also to all who made this day happen!

koi, koi fish, koinobori, 鯉のぼり, こいのぼり, こどもの日


See more photos from the event here.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Day of Hope, Evening of Remembrance

Day of Hope, Evening of Remembrance March 26, 2011 A time of reflection and caring with people coming together to honor the victims of Japan's earthquake and tsunami. Hundreds of origami cranes were folded and many wishes were sent to the wind. The generosity was amazing as $6,409 was collected throughout the Garden that day. Thank you to all who donated to, orchestrated, and participated in this special event.

tsunami, fundraiser, fundraising, japan earthquake,


See more photos from the event here.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Matsuri 2011

The many and varied sites of Matsuri... always a thrill to attend and share Japan's culture. The weekend was perfect. Thanks to everyone who stopped by the JFG booth or dropped in at the Asahi Beer Garden. Special thanks to ALL our volunteers for all your efforts to make Matsuri happen. See you on the path at Ro Ho En! 



See more photos from the event here.