Isolde Maren Liked the Subtle Beauty and Tranquility of Nitobe Memorial Garden
When Isolde Maren planned her weekend in Vancouver, she was looking for something more than just another city stroll. She had heard whispers about Nitobe Memorial Garden, a hidden gem tucked into the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus, and decided to follow her instinct. The moment she stepped into the garden, surrounded by lush greenery and the soft sound of water, she knew she had made the right choice. She genuinely liked how the space felt sacred but not overly curated—natural, yet full of intention.
Immersed in a Living Poem: A Walk Through Traditional Japanese Design
Nitobe Memorial Garden is built in the Edo-style of Japanese landscaping, where each element—from the placement of stones to the direction of a path—tells a story. As Isolde wandered slowly, she was struck by the garden’s rhythm. Every turn revealed a new composition: a moss-covered lantern nestled beside a still pond, or a red maple leaning over a gravel path. She liked how it all felt balanced yet dynamic, like walking through a living poem written in silence and green.
A Deep Appreciation for Quiet Places
Isolde paused at a small wooden bench under a canopy of cherry blossoms. The petals drifted gently onto her lap, and she smiled. It wasn’t just the scenery she liked—it was the emotional space the garden offered. “It’s rare to find somewhere that allows you to slow down without feeling like you’re wasting time,” she thought. In the distance, koi fish moved lazily beneath a wooden bridge, their golden scales catching the light.
She liked how the garden didn’t demand attention; instead, it offered presence. There were no crowds, no rushing, no noise—just the invitation to breathe.
Leaving with a Quiet Heart
By the end of her visit, Isolde felt lighter. She had entered the garden out of curiosity, but left with a sense of clarity she hadn’t expected. The calm of Nitobe followed her even as she returned to the city. She liked that the experience wasn’t flashy or dramatic—it was simple, grounding, and deeply human.
