Anderson Japanese Gardens Tours and Activities

Anderson Japanese Gardens featuring a cascade and autumn leaves
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Anderson Japanese Gardens featuring a park
Anderson Japanese Gardens showing a park and autumn leaves as well as a small group of people
Anderson Japanese Gardens featuring a pond and a garden as well as a small group of people


Rockford’s iconic gardens may be in the heartland of America, but you’ll feel transported to Japan as you explore the winding paths, ponds and waterfalls.

Discover an authentic piece of the Far East in northeastern Illinois at Anderson Japanese Gardens. Take a leisurely, self-guided tour through the serene surroundings. Explore 12 acres (5 hectares) of rock formations, ponds, beautifully tended plants and other fascinating attractions.

Before you start your garden tour, stop in the Gift Shop and purchase food for the koi. Toss it in the ponds and see the water ripple with activity as the large, colorful fish surface to feast.

Walk along beautifully landscaped paths winding around waterfalls, ponds and rock formations. See small pagodas and other Sukiya-style buildings throughout the gardens. This traditional architectural style, popular in Japan in the 16th century, features simple lines and airy spaces.

Japanese maples, pines and a variety of bright flowers make the gardens burst with colors. Blue irises bring spring beauty while red maples reflect in autumn waters. Admire the bronze angel sculptures by Carl Milles in the Garden of Reflection. See fish surface to snack on beetles. Continue over the Cypress Bridge, past tumbling waterfalls and Sukiya-style teahouses and guesthouses. Walk around the serene Pond Strolling Garden or simply sit on the pond’s shores and relax.

Reserve a spot on a guided group tour or allow at least an hour to visit the gardens on your own. The gardens offer such a pleasant and relaxing environment that you will want to take your time strolling leisurely along the paths. Get refreshments at the on-site restaurant, Fresco at the Gardens. Sit inside or outside to enjoy breakfast, lunch or a tasty snack. The restaurant is open year-round.

Drive under 2 hours west from Chicago to visit Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford daily from May through October. Purchase your entry ticket at the front desk or become an Anderson Japanese Gardens Member for complimentary admission. Children under 5 years of age have free admission and seniors and students pay a reduced rate. The paths throughout the gardens are covered in crushed stones, making most of it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Inquire through the website if you’re interested in reserving the gardens for weddings and wedding photography.

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Top Anderson Japanese Gardens Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Tranquil Escape Indoor Pool Spa Arcade
Tranquil Escape Indoor Pool Spa Arcade
Rockford
Tranquil Escape Indoor Pool Spa Arcade
Motel 6 Rockford, IL
Motel 6 Rockford, IL
2 out of 5
4850 E State Street, Rockford, IL
Motel 6 Rockford, IL
 Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free
Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free
Rockford
Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free
Cozy home in Rockford 
Sleeps 8
Cozy home in Rockford Sleeps 8
Rockford
Cozy home in Rockford Sleeps 8
Econo Lodge
Econo Lodge
2 out of 5
7712 Potawatomi Trail, Rockford, IL
Econo Lodge
Father of the Bride Private Estate with Pool & Hot Tub - Sleeps 25
Father of the Bride Private Estate with Pool & Hot Tub - Sleeps 25
Rockford
Father of the Bride Private Estate with Pool & Hot Tub - Sleeps 25
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.