The Japan House garden is built in a somewhat traditional Japanese style, and modified to survive the climate of East-Central Illinois. Trees, shrubs and seasonal flowers are planted to present a simple and serene atmosphere, in contrast to the busy streets near the house. Students are welcomed by a garden path freshly sprinkled with water.
Water is used to purify and freshen the garden.
A tea garden path is called roji , a dewy ground. The name is influenced by a Zen Buddhist sense of purity. The walkway and stepping stones dampened with water before the tea ceremony class. A student approaches Japan House walking on stepping stones.