If you ever plan to make it to the island off the coast of Massachusetts, you'll be surprised to know, tucked away on 14 acres of land is a Japanese garden called Mytoi. It's one of a handful of gardens protected by The Trustees of Reservations for public use and enjoyment. In 1991, Hurricane Bob left the garden a tangle of uprooted trees and shrubs. Mytoi was redesigned and restored with mixed plantings of native and exotic trees and shrubs, some rare.

The original acreage was a gift, with endowment, of Mrs. Seth Wakeman in 1976. Additional land given was given in 1981. The garden's signature feature is a small pond with an island that is reached by walking over an arched bridge. Winding footpaths take visitors through a birch walk, camellia dell, stone garden, and hillside garden. A rustic shelter offers broad views of the garden and a chance to become immersed in the meditative qualities of the landscape.

If you have a chance, you MUST visit this property. More information visit www.thetrustees.org

»by jaymie