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Guest Experiences
At the heart of the Cowra Japanese Garden are the moments our visitors create — quiet reflections by the koi ponds, joyful celebrations among the cherry blossoms, and the simple pleasure of wandering through a landscape designed for peace.
A Poem by Valerie Mai
JAPANESE GARDENS, COWRA NSW, AUSTRALIA
I’m in the Japanese Gardens in Cowra today.
The sun is shining, air is crisp, it’s a totally wonderful day.
We’ve enjoyed Eggs Benedict in the café,
And now we will start walking on our way.
We climbed to the top of a rock-covered hill,
Where the views were simply amazing,
And sat for a while in complete serenity
As we looked out, and we could not stop gazing
At the vast countryside where we could see for miles
And our faces were both showing very peaceful smiles.
The gardens are meticulously kept,
And the undulations are easily stepped.
The bushes are sculptured to please the eye,
And now and again, a parrot will fly by,
Or a magpie or two, or a duck as well,
And the Crimson Rosella that sounds like a bell.
The koi in the pond are a wonder to behold,
And the ducks that swim with them can be very bold,
And the koi are huge and majestically colored.
Now I hear the Peace Bell sound, and I know we’re being followed.
And why would anyone not want to visit this place,
It’s so full of peace and serenity and grace.
We will depart here soon with a smile in our eyes,
As we leave the gardens and say our goodbyes.
Valerie Mai
Poet and Author.
Share your Memories with us
Our Guest Experiences page brings together these stories, photos, and impressions shared by those who have spent time in the Garden. Each experience offers a glimpse into how the space inspires connection, calm, and creativity.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to rediscover the beauty of the seasons, we invite you to explore how others have enjoyed the Garden — and to share your own story with us.