Princess Takamado visited Texas as Honorary Patron of the Japan Football Association
For a few quiet hours in mid-June, one of Fort Worth’s most tranquil destinations welcomed a very distinguished guest. Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado of Japan visited the Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s Japanese Garden on June 15, touring the beloved landscape alongside local leaders and members of a Japanese delegation during her trip to Texas.
A Walk Through One Of Texas’ Most Peaceful Places
Princess Takamado, a member of Japan’s imperial family, explored the 7.5-acre Japanese Garden with Fort Worth Botanic Garden President and CEO Patrick Newman, Fort Worth Japanese Society President Harvey Yamagata, garden staff and volunteer docents.
Joining the Princess were several distinguished guests, including:
His Excellency Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the United States
Takeshi Koyama, Consul-General of Japan in Houston
Rie Koyama, spouse of Consul-General Koyama
Kazuyuki Yukawa, General Secretary of the Japan Football Association
Photo: Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The guided tour showcased one of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s most popular attractions, where winding pathways lead visitors past koi-filled ponds, traditional bridges and carefully cultivated plantings. Designed as a traditional strolling garden, the space has welcomed guests since 1973 and features cherry trees, Japanese maples, magnolias and bamboo that create a distinctly Japanese landscape in the heart of North Texas.
An International Guest With A Texas Connection
Princess Takamado’s stop at the garden came during her visit to Texas in her role as Honorary Patron of the Japan Football Association.
While much of her schedule centered on that responsibility, the visit to the Japanese Garden offered an opportunity to experience a place that celebrates Japanese design, horticulture and culture thousands of miles from Japan.
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden described the visit as an honor, providing the Princess and her delegation with a peaceful setting for reflection during their time in Texas.
A Garden That Continues To Earn Recognition
In 2024, environmental sound platform earth.fm ranked it the most peaceful place in Texas and the seventh quietest destination in the United States, citing both low ambient noise levels and positive visitor reviews. For many guests, the shaded walking paths, flowing water and quiet corners offer a welcome escape from the bustle of the city, especially during North Texas’ hottest months.
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