BENTO MAKING WORKSHOP

featuring Noriko Hayashi

Japanese food culture has always valued and cherished the art of presentation. Enjoy watching Noriko Hayashi make delicious and beautiful bento, then try your hand at making your own edible work of art. Noriko Hayashi is part of JOI (Japanese Outreach Initiative) and has conducted many cultural and educational workshops throughout the Tucson area as well as is a regular mainstay for the University of Arizona. She loves sharing Japanese culture with the community, especially when it involves food.

Due to the amount of perishable supplies required for this workshop, space is limited and we recommend securing your spot as soon as possible.

Dates & Time: 

1/11

12 PM - 1:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $30 (includes supplies for the workshop that you can take with you)

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

The Art of Dollmaking - Lecture & Demonstration

with Junko Liesfeld

We invite you to join us at Yume Gardens for this special event featuring a live demonstration of dollmaking artistry. This immersive experience will be enriched with a fascinating lecture and an engaging discussion, offering deeper insights into this craft and the cultural significance behind it.

Junko Liesfeld is a highly acclaimed doll artist with over five decades of experience in the craft. Growing up in Japan, she was deeply influenced by her mother, also a doll artist, whose work she both observed and assisted. It was from her mother that Junko inherited her passion and refined skills, laying the foundation for her own artistic journey. Although Junko has developed a distinctive style, she continues to embrace her mother’s philosophy of "less is more," creating dolls with minimal modeling and painting to highlight pure form and subtle expression. Her work often features monotone color schemes with delicate hints of color on the cheeks, and without painted eyes or mouths.

Specializing in dolls crafted from washi paper and kimono fabric, she also creates figures from cloth with wire in the limbs and fingers, allowing them to be posed. While her older dolls are often dressed in traditional attire, her child figures wear modern clothing, reflecting the blend of East and West. This contrast highlights the gradual disappearance of certain Japanese traditions in favor of Western customs. Her work transcends traditional Japanese doll-making, showcasing a unique and original style that is distinctly her own.

Dates & Time: 

1/10

1PM - 2:30PM

Tickets*:

General Admission: $20

Members: $17

Children age 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

*Tickets for admission to the Gardens sold separately. 

Join us at Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson on Sunday, January 5, 2025, for a peaceful haiku walk, The Embrace of Stillness. Embrace the stillness of winter as the season shifts, using haiku to capture its beauty and transitions. Through guided exercises, you’ll heighten your awareness of the present moment—observing the movement of leaves, crisp air, and the calming light of the season. Reflect on the stark beauty and impermanence of winter as you write haiku inspired by nature’s cycles. This mindful walk will help you find stillness, gratitude, and deeper connection as the world slows down in preparation for Spring.

This event will be led by award-winning poet, Kenneth Pearson. Kenneth is the digital librarian for The Haiku Foundation and the author of five collections of poetry, including two collections of haiku.

This learning pathway is part of a program designed by Kenneth Pearson to promote living a Haiku life and having a Haiku mindset.

Kenneth Pearson has a MFA in Creative Writing with a MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology. He serves as the Digital Librarian of The Haiku Foundation, is the Facilitator of the Haiku Walk at Yume Japanese Gardens in Tucson, and the author of two haiku collections. For Kenneth, Haiku has become a cornerstone of his life, teaching him to appreciate simplicity, presence, and the fleeting beauty of each moment.

Date/Time:

Sunday, January 5 @ 12pm - 1:30pm

Tickets:

$20 General/$10 Members 

Advanced Reservations required. Please purchase your ticketsin advance for this event. 

Tea Ceremony performed by Eric Carr

The Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu (translated literally as “hot water for tea”), is a cherished ritual involving the preparation and presentation of powdered green tea in a highly stylized manner.

A host and a guest, wearing traditional Japanese kimono specific to the ceremony, will demonstrate how tea has been prepared, served, and enjoyed in Japan since the 12th century.

Tea will be served to participants adhering to current health and safety guidelines.

Cost: $25 per person (includes Gardens admission). Members of Yume pay only $15.

Date & Times: 

12/15

11AM - 12PM

and

12:30PM - 1:30PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $25

Members: $15

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Holiday Kirigami Workshop

Kirigami is the Japanese art of cutting paper. It is an artform that has been used to make decorations, create masterful artistic works, and enhance the aesthetic beauty of things using natrual-made materials. This workshop will be led by Kristina Keiko McGaha, who has been doing kirigami for over 30 years. She will demonstrate more advanced techniques and discuss the histroy of this artform. This workshop will also be a hands-on crafting experience where participants will be able to create holiday themed kirigami including: snowflakes, flower vases, and holiday cards.

Supplies for this (paper and cutting tools) will be provided for use during the workshop. The creations you make are yours to take home. The workshop will also be family-friendly so children are welcome to participate.

Dates & Time: 

12/8

10AM - 12PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $20

Members: $15

Children age 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Join us at Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson on Sunday, October 20, 2024, for a peaceful haiku walk, The Quieting of Nature. Embrace the stillness of autumn as the season shifts, using haiku to capture its beauty and transitions. Through guided exercises, you’ll heighten your awareness of the present moment—observing falling leaves, crisp air, and the fading light. Reflect on the simplicity and impermanence of autumn as you write haiku inspired by nature’s cycles. This mindful walk will help you find stillness, gratitude, and deeper connection as the world slows down in preparation for winter.

This event will be led by award-winning poet, Kenneth Pearson. Kenneth is the digital librarian for The Haiku Foundation and the author of five collections of poetry, including two collections of haiku.

This learning pathway is part of a program designed by Kenneth Pearson to promote living a Haiku life and having a Haiku mindset.

Kenneth Pearson has a MFA in Creative Writing with a MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology. He serves as the Digital Librarian of The Haiku Foundation, is the Facilitator of the Haiku Walk at Yume Japanese Gardens in Tucson, and the author of two haiku collections. For Kenneth, Haiku has become a cornerstone of his life, teaching him to appreciate simplicity, presence, and the fleeting beauty of each moment.

Date/Time:

Sunday, November 17 @ 12pm - 1:30pm

Tickets:

$20 General/$10 Members 

Space is limited. Please reserve your spot!

EVENINGS AT YUME: FLOATING LANTERNS (TORO NAGASHI)

As the sun sets and darkness falls, visitors will come to enjoy the custom of Toro Nagashi, a symbolic and poignant tradition that refers to Japanese lantern festivals: candle-lit lanterns are released on water together with prayers for peace or to honor those who have passed. This is a cultural and spiritual practice that fosters a deep sense of connection between the living and the dead.

This floating procession of lanterns, drifting slowly away on Yume's sparkling koi pond, is truly a serene and contemplative sight. Participants will be mesmerized by the poetic glow of candlelight and relax to the sound of Japanese folk music playing softly in the background.

The term "toro" refers to lanterns, and "nagashi" means flowing or floating. This practice is often associated with various cultural and religious events, particularly during Obon, a Japanese Buddhist custom to commemorate deceased ancestors' spirits. This poignant and spiritual practice fosters a sense of deep connection between the living and the dead. It's a way for people to express their love and respect for those who have passed away while also finding solace in the belief that their spirits continue their journey.

Purchase a floating lantern at the door, and launch it on our sparkling koi pond to participate in this ancient and symbolic Japanese tradition without ever leaving Tucson.

Before launching the lanterns, participants may write messages, prayers, or the names of deceased loved ones on the lanterns.

Also available will be delicious foods from Takoyaki Balls food truck.

Dates & Time: 

11/9

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $20

Members: $17

Children 3-15: $5

Lanterns $5 each (recommended one per family)

Join us at the Gardens for an evening of music for Japanese koto and cello by Limonkoto.

Limonkoto is composed of two incredible musicians, Mary Lou Prince, koto, and Sarah Walder Amata, cello.

Mary Lou and Sarah bring the ethereal sounds of the koto together with the melodic richness of the cello in this unique performance.

Mary Lou lived in Japan for 24 years and received numerous commissions to compose new music for the koto. She was awarded national composition prizes for her music for koto and shakuhachi. Her music blends sounds of Japan with a bright contemporary classic style.

Sarah worked as a professional cellist in the Netherlands for 30 years. She brings an alluring and joyful performance style to her music. She has performed extensively in Europe, the United States and in several other countries.

Below is a sneak preview of the richly unique experience of koto and cello played together…

Dates & Time: 

10/25

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $30

Children 3-15: $20

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

It is the time of year when we can celebrate the reopening of the Gardens! Be part of this exclusive Reopening Celebration to be the first to view the gardens since our summer closure. The highlight of the evening will be a giant origami exhibit on display througout the gardens. Enjoy the masterful geometric shapes and natural images come to life in paper form. The exhibit will be accompanied by Japanese music and delicious treats for purchase from Takoyaki Balls food truck. It is sure to be a night to remember.

You will also be able to learn about upcoming events for this season, including our planned exhibits. The first exhibit, Ningyo: Discovering the World of Japanese Dolls, will run from October 3, 2024, to April 30, 2025, and will feature pieces from our museum collections.

Dates & Time: 

9/28

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $20

Members: $15

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Experience the Flower Moon with a captivating nocturnal journey through Yume Japanese Gardens, a unique event designed to showcase the garden's beauty under the moonlight. 

This special occasion invites you to embrace the serene world of haiku poetry, on the theme of 'Moonlit Blooms', offering a creative outlet to express the wonders of spring, from the vibrant blossoms to the tranquil night. As you wander the paths, discover the perfect harmony between nature's nighttime spectacle and poetic inspiration. Celebrate the season in an extraordinary setting, where the magic of the Flower Moon illuminates every corner, creating a backdrop ideal for poetic expression and personal reflection. Join us for an unforgettable evening under the stars, where the essence of spring and the art of haiku converge, leaving you with lasting memories of beauty and creativity.

This event will be led by award-winning poet, Kenneth Pearson. Kenneth is the digital librarian for The Haiku Foundation and the author of five collections of poetry, including two collections of haiku. He resides in Vail, AZ.

Date/Time:

Thursday, May 23, 2024

7:30pm - 9pm

Tickets:

$20 General/$10 Members 

Space is limited. Please reserve your spot!

Don't miss our last "Evenings at Yume" of the season.

Such enchanting evenings at Yume are always a feast for the senses, a chance to unwind and immerse oneself in the timeless tranquillity of a Japanese garden brought to life by the magic of candlelight. As darkness falls, the peacefulness of the gardens deepens and candles and lanterns become even more mesmerizing, casting an intricate patterns of light and shadow. It's a time for quiet reflection, for appreciating the beauty of nature and the artistry of Japanese design.

The Evenings will be enlivened by the soft strains of traditional Japanese music playing in the background and the extraordinary participation of Suzu Mitsuyuki who will perform two short Japanese dances during the event on the theme of “Until our paths cross again.”

A delicious addition to the event? The Takoyaki Balls Food Truck will be on site!! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds too.

About the Artist:

Suzu Mitsuyuki started her artistic journey when she was 3 years old in Japan when she was taken under the wing of Akemi Gojou to study Japanese classical dancing. She toured in Japan and internationally after acquiring her Natori degree. A few years after receiving her Shihan degree, she left Japan with the hope of introducing her art to new audiences. She currently continues her journey as a member of Suzuyuki Kai in Tucson. Suzu Mitsuyuki hopes to cultivate inclusivity and deeper understanding of cultural differences with her art.

Dates & Time: 

4/27

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $19

Members: $15

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Don't miss our last "Evenings at Yume" of the season.

Such enchanting evenings at Yume are always a feast for the senses, a chance to unwind and immerse oneself in the timeless tranquillity of a Japanese garden brought to life by the magic of candlelight. As darkness falls, the peacefulness of the gardens deepens and candles and lanterns become even more mesmerizing, casting an intricate patterns of light and shadow. It's a time for quiet reflection, for appreciating the beauty of nature and the artistry of Japanese design.

The Evenings will be enlivened by the soft strains of traditional Japanese music playing in the background and the extraordinary participation of Suzu Mitsuyuki who will perform two short Japanese dances during the event on the theme of “Until our paths cross again.”

A delicious addition to the event? The Takoyaki Balls Food Truck will be on site!! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds too.

About the Artist:

Suzu Mitsuyuki started her artistic journey when she was 3 years old in Japan when she was taken under the wing of Akemi Gojou to study Japanese classical dancing. She toured in Japan and internationally after acquiring her Natori degree. A few years after receiving her Shihan degree, she left Japan with the hope of introducing her art to new audiences. She currently continues her journey as a member of Suzuyuki Kai in Tucson. Suzu Mitsuyuki hopes to cultivate inclusivity and deeper understanding of cultural differences with her art.

Dates & Time: 

4/26

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $19

Members: $15

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Join us for a rejuvenating time of movement and mindfulness while connecting with nature and nurture your wellness in the heart of our Japanese oasis.

This 90 Minute Experiential and Participatory Workshop will introduce you to the principles and practice of Tai Chi and Qigong.
Sifu Gene Nelson, a certified Master Teacher in these revered ancient arts, will guide you through a standing meditation, postural awareness, and deep breathing exercises.

Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to these practices, you are all welcome to partake in this beautiful journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being. All attendees are expected to participate in the various movements.

This Workshop is appropriate for active persons with no gait challenges, who do not require assistance getting into and out of a chair. Most of this Workshop will be done standing. Seated breaks can be taken as needed.

NOTE: Sifu will make hands on posture corrections as needed. Hands on will always be appropriate and required so as to maximize the students' experience.

Dress: Please dress as if going for an active walk, gym, exercise class.

About the Instructor:
Sifu Gene Nelson is a Certified Master Teacher for Tai Chi & Qigong. Sifu Gene’s teaching philosophy is one that is singularly dedicated to offering the maximum benefit from every movement regardless of experience. This is accomplished through an experiential teaching method spanning 35+ years with over 10,000 in class students (not Zoom), at his school in Metropolitan NYC and workshops. Sifu now brings his years of personal training and teaching to Tucson where he lives full time.

Dates & Time: 

4/20

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $25

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission class.

IMPORTANT: Attendees will have the opportunity to pre-register for a Ten Week program covering this topic in depth starting in October 2024. 
Dates/Time for the Ten Week program will be announced at the end of the Workshop.
Ten Week program fee for Non-Members will be $160 and will include an Individual Membership to Yume Japanese Gardens (valid for a year). Ten Week program fee for Members will be $120.

Discover the Way of the Bow amidst the serene beauty of Yume Japanese Gardens.

Step into the ancient world of Japanese archery and witness the grace, precision, and profound spirituality of kyudo. It will be a journey into tradition and mastery. Our skilled practitioners will showcase the elegance and discipline of this revered martial art, demonstrating the harmonious balance between mind, body, and spirit, followed by an opportunity for you to try your hand at this practice under their expert guidance.

Takoyaki Balls Food Truck will be on site during the entire event!!

Dates & Time: 

4/14

12:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Tickets:
General Admission: $19

Members: $10

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Walking meditation is a practice through which we develop concentration and mindfulness. We learn to cultivate mindfulness of the body while the body is moving. We learn to be awake and at ease at the same time. The Buddha taught four different ways to meditate: walking, standing, sitting and lying. Walking meditation is a particularly important practice in that it enables us to make the transition from sitting meditation to being awake in our daily lives, in our work, exercise, study, and in our relationships. In the end, that’s what it’s all about.

Please come join us for instruction, guidance and practice in walking meditation. There is no need to have practiced this form of meditation before; it is fine for beginners and intermediate students. We will be outside at the lovely Yume Gardens walking among nature.

Lhasha Tizer, MS. is a certified Community Dharma Leader trained in Insight Meditation through Spirit Rock Meditation Center. She is a long time practitioner and teacher of meditation and mindfulness, studying for 47 years, and has been teaching Buddhist Studies since 2010. Through Desert Insight Meditation, her teaching community, she offers classes, book groups, and retreats at Tucson Community Meditation Center, the Sol Center and beyond.

Date/Time:

Wednesday, April 10th, 2024

5:30PM-6:30PM

Advance registration required.

Tickets:

General public: $25

(Gardens admission included)

Embark on a serene haiku walk through the Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, an experience designed to immerse you in the vibrant renewal of spring amidst blooming flowers, fresh scents, and gentle sounds. This journey introduces you to the art of haiku poetry, a form celebrated for its ability to capture the ephemeral beauty of nature in a few succinct words, encouraging mindfulness and a deep connection to the present. You'll wander the garden's paths, pausing at inspirational points to observe, reflect, and pen your haiku, connecting with the season's essence and your inner self. This interactive experience combines the beauty of Japanese garden design with the reflective practice of writing haiku, offering both seasoned poets and newcomers the joy of capturing spring's spirit.

This event will be led by award-winning poet, Kenneth Pearson. Kenneth is the digital librarian for The Haiku Foundation and the author of five collections of poetry, including two collections of haiku. He resides in Vail, AZ.

Date/Time:

Saturday, April 6 @ 12pm - 1:30pm

Tickets:

$20 General/$10 Members 

Space is limited. Please reserve your spot!

Come hear the story of the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and learn about his early life and how he became a spiritual leader. 

The word Buddha means “I am awake” pertaining to the discovery of how he became free from suffering and developed an embodiment of compassion, wisdom, and peace. 

A guided mindfulness meditation through the Gardens will follow the lecture. "Mindfulness is the ability to see things clearly, as they are, moment by moment and meditation is the foundation of mindfulness practice, the pillar of support through which our sense of self and world deepens, grows, and is clarified." - Lhasha Tizer.

Lhasha Tizer, MS. is a certified Community Dharma Leader trained in Insight Meditation through Spirit Rock Meditation Center. She is a long time practitioner and teacher of meditation and mindfulness, studying for 47 years, and has been teaching Buddhist Studies since 2010. Through Desert Insight Meditation, her teaching community, she offers classes, book groups, and retreats at Tucson Community Meditation Center, the Sol Center and beyond. 


Date/Time:

Wednesday, March 13th, 2024

5:30PM-7PM

Advance registration required.

Tickets:

General public: $30 

(Gardens admission included)

*There will be an opportunity to sign up for follow up guided instruction in mindfulness meditation the next week on Wednesday, March 20th at Yume from 5:30-7pm.

In eternal vessels of clay, we wander and wonder, at once in and of the landscape. We are earth and stars and the eternal space between unseen realms. We are the clouds and mountains, the rivers and forests, presence and prayer. We are the dreams within the clay.

Funhouse movement theater returns to Yume Gardens to take you on a butoh exploration of eternal body as landscape. Inspired by the writings of Shundo Aoyama and John O’donohue, Dreams in Clay combines the Zen aesthetics of the Japanese garden with the sculptural works of artist Keita Tsutsumi. Visitors to this unique performance will encounter dancers engaged in communion with the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural environment.

A contemporary, avant-garde performance art, butoh is a seamless blend of dance, theater, improvisation, and traditional Japanese performing arts. Butoh compels both performers and audience to investigate the primal, universal energies that connect us, and invites us to share an embodied experience of the collective unconscious.

Dreams in Clay is directed by Lin Lucas and Keita Tsutsumi and features Sabrina Geoffrion, Karenne Koo, Lin Lucas, Sherry Mulholland, and Keita Tsutsumi, with renowned butoh artist, Julie Becton Gillum. Music composed and performed by Paul Amiel. 

Date & Time:

3/2

7:15 PM - 8:15 PM  

Tickets:
General Admission: $30

Members: $25

Children 3-15: $10

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

In eternal vessels of clay, we wander and wonder, at once in and of the landscape. We are earth and stars and the eternal space between unseen realms. We are the clouds and mountains, the rivers and forests, presence and prayer. We are the dreams within the clay.

Funhouse movement theater returns to Yume Gardens to take you on a butoh exploration of eternal body as landscape. Inspired by the writings of Shundo Aoyama and John O’donohue, Dreams in Clay combines the Zen aesthetics of the Japanese garden with the sculptural works of artist Keita Tsutsumi. Visitors to this unique performance will encounter dancers engaged in communion with the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural environment.

A contemporary, avant-garde performance art, butoh is a seamless blend of dance, theater, improvisation, and traditional Japanese performing arts. Butoh compels both performers and audience to investigate the primal, universal energies that connect us, and invites us to share an embodied experience of the collective unconscious.

Dreams in Clay is directed by Lin Lucas and Keita Tsutsumi and features Sabrina Geoffrion, Karenne Koo, Lin Lucas, Sherry Mulholland, and Keita Tsutsumi, with renowned butoh artist, Julie Becton Gillum. Music composed and performed by Paul Amiel. 

Date & Time:

3/2

6 PM - 7 PM  

Tickets:
General Admission: $30

Members: $25

Children 3-15: $10

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Come, escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary at our first Evening of the season at Yume Japanese Gardens. 

As the sun sets, watch as the gardens come alive with the soft glow of lanterns, casting a warm and inviting light on the gardens' pathways. The interplay of shadows and light adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting surroundings.

Let the soulful melodies of the traditional shakuhachi flute transport you to a realm of peace and harmony. The haunting tunes, played by skilled musicians, will resonate through the garden, enhancing the atmosphere with every note.

The symphony of nature and culture will create memories that will linger in your heart forever.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to weather conditions, the event previously scheduled for 2/2 and 2/3 has been postponed.

NEW Date & Time:

2/17

6 PM - 8 PM

Tickets:
General Admission: $19

Members: $15

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Come, escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary at our first Evening of the season at Yume Japanese Gardens. 

As the sun sets, watch as the gardens come alive with the soft glow of lanterns, casting a warm and inviting light on the gardens' pathways. The interplay of shadows and light adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting surroundings.

Let the soulful melodies of the traditional shakuhachi flute transport you to a realm of peace and harmony. The haunting tunes, played by skilled musicians, will resonate through the garden, enhancing the atmosphere with every note.

The symphony of nature and culture will create memories that will linger in your heart forever.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to weather conditions, the event previously scheduled for 2/2 and 2/3 has been postponed.

NEW Date & Time:

2/16

6 PM - 8 PM

Tickets:
General Admission: $19

Members: $15

Children 3-15: $5

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event.

Escape to the peaceful winter sanctuary of Yume Japanese Gardens for our special Winter Haiku Walk. 

Embrace the seasonal theme of "Rest" as you mindfully meander through the slumbering landscape, observing bare branches reaching towards clear skies while hibernating wildlife nestle down in the stillness. 

Compare the quiet cold to summer’s vibrant greens and lively birdsong while composing reflective haiku on this contemplative stroll. 

Capture the garden’s tranquil dormancy before spring’s renewal. 

Align your words with the theme for the upcoming Tucson Haiku Hike competition and prepare your haiku for submission.

This event will be led by award winning poet, Kenneth Pearson. Kenneth is the digital librarian for The Haiku Foundation and the author of five collections of poetry, including two collections of haiku. He resides in Vail, AZ.

Date/Time:

Saturday, February 10 @ 12pm - 1:30pm

Tickets:

$20 general/$10 Members 

Space is limited. Please reserve your spot!

Celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Dragon (辰, tatsu) and experience the magic of tradition at the Japanese New Year Festival at Yume Japanese Gardens!

Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with cultural delights, vibrant performances, and the spirit of togetherness.

Enjoy live performances featuring Japanese music and the annual ritual of mochitsuki (the pounding of rice to make mochi), and savor the flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine with a variety of food, snacks, and drinks.

Advanced ticket reservation is required. This is a limited admission event. 

Date/Time:

1/13

11am-3pm

Admission Tickets: 

Adults: $18 - Members: $10 - Children: $6 - Children under 5: Free

We will be celebrating award winning cinematographer and photographer Peter Fuhrman’s photo exhibit, Land of the Rising Sun - Hiizurukuni, with an open reception on Friday, December 8th from 5:30pm to 7pm.

The exhibit features a diverse array of photographs taken during the artist's immersive journey through Japan in 2015.
With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the art of photography, Peter captures Japan’s culture and daily life presenting intimate indoor spaces and meticulous architectural elements beautifully encapsulated in each frame.

The reception will include light refreshments and a chance to discuss the exhibit with the artist.
Art also available for purchase. No admission required, this event is free for the public.

Land of the Rising Sun - Hiizurukuni is currently being featured at Yume Japanese Gardens and will be available for your enjoyment from November 2023 through April 2024.

###

Date & Time:
12/8
5:30PM - 7:00PM

Tickets:
Free Admission

Come join us for a Taste of Japanese Teas, an educational and delicious tea tasting led by tea scholar and certified tea practitioner, Eric Carr. Guests will enjoy (and learn to brew) a selection of Japanese teas from everyday sencha to refreshing mugicha — and even get to taste a rare and little-known tea from Eric’s personal collection! 

Admission to the event includes a tasting of five teas, brewing lessons, as well as a ceramic tasting cup.

Afterward, some of the teas will be available for purchase.

Date/Time:

Friday, December 8, 2023 at 2:30pm

Advance registration required.

Tickets:

General public: $25 (Gardens admission not included)

Members: $15

The event will be held in the bamboo alley. Entrance through the main gate in the parking lot.

Come join us for a Taste of Japanese Teas, an educational and delicious tea tasting led by tea scholar and certified tea practitioner, Eric Carr. Guests will enjoy (and learn to brew) a selection of Japanese teas from everyday sencha to refreshing mugicha — and even get to taste a rare and little-known tea from Eric’s personal collection! 

Admission to the event includes a tasting of five teas, brewing lessons, as well as a ceramic tasting cup.

Afterward, some of the teas will be available for purchase.

Date/Time:

Friday, December 8, 2023 at 1pm

Advance registration required.

Tickets:

General public: $25 (Gardens admission not included)

Members: $15

The event will be held in the bamboo alley. Entrance through the main gate in the parking lot.