We all need a place to relax once in awhile. Thankfully, SIU has some great places to sit back and rejuvenate in the great outdoors. The Kumakura Garden is a lovely Japanese garden named after Nobuo Kumakura, the mayor of Nakajo, Japan. It is located behind the north end of Faner near the Coal Research Center and Old Baptist Foundation. The entrance features a wood, Japanese style gate. The walking path is paved with stones. There is a serene koi pond fed by a gently cascading waterfall, over which is a Japanese bridge. The bridge reminds me of Monet’s “Water Lilies and Japanese Bridge”. There are benches that tastefully echo the curvature of the bridge. The landscaping showcases ornamental grasses, Firepower Nandina, Japanese maples, pine trees, natural stones, and miniature pagodas.
A great place to relax is in the Troutt Tea House located within the Kumakura Garden. It features an octagonal opening and octagonal columns to match. The roof structure is exposed like a lot of traditional Japanese architecture. Planted next to the Tea House is bamboo to enhance the Japanese feel.
If you are curious, you can follow the path through the Kumakura Garden and check out Dorothy Morris Gardens located beyond the pond next to Faner. Dorothy Morris was the wife of SIU President, Delyte Morris. Be sure to read the plaque to learn more about her and check out her statue. Keep journeying behind Faner, and you will enter the Museum Sculpture Garden. You may want to visit the museum in Faner sometime for a break from your studies. The Sculpture Garden is a pleasant, grassy area featuring sculptures by SIU students. “The Worm” by Colby Parson-O’Keefe is quite interesting. You’ll also find a nice view of the Pulliam Hall clock tower.
So, take a break. Relax outside before it gets too cold. Have some tea. Maybe do a little sketching, and enjoy some of the scenic areas of the SIU campus.
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