By Carolyn Boston, April 11, 2019 — Last week my great-niece and I took a tour of the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden located in the West Philadelphia section of Fairmount Park. I planned for many years to visit the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden but never had the opportunity to do so.
The serenity and elegance of the Shofuso House with its many waterfalls, rock gardens, and weeping willow trees left me with a sense of peace and tranquility. I was transported to 17th century Japan and experienced the simplicity and beauty of this Japanese house. The first thing required is to remove your shoes before entering the house. The tour guide explained every facet and function of the house. She thoroughly explained the ritual of the tea ceremony and what all the gestures represent.
For an experience away from the stress of life and a view of an entirely different lifestyle and an environment that yields a restoration of mind, body, and spirit, I would highly recommend a visit to the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden.