Japanese Garden in SF and more highlights

 

Coming to San Francisco, I should have realized that the experiences of even a few days cannot be contained in a single post. Finally here is the last of the flurry of posts from the recent visit. I am combining here two posts originally shared on my page on instagram.

 First is about a morning spent at the Japanese Garden. The second puts a focus on some special things about San Francisco.

The Japanese Garden is a perfect place to find peace in the midst of the chaos of urban life. The weather too echoed the cool vibe of the place. 

Earlier this year I had the pleasure to walk through the Japanese Garden in Pune that sits on much extensive acreage than this one in San Francisco. I am including pictures taken in the Pune Garden. ( last 6 photos)

Despite smaller area, the SF counterpart is immaculate and carries all the ingredients that make a Japanese Garden. Particularly its koi pond is truly a sight to behold. 

It was heartwarming to see families with three generations strolling around and enjoying this wonderful creation that combined elements from nature and human intervention. If you are in the city and can spare even one hour on any day this place is worth your time. It will be a memorable experience for sure.

The saree at the garden was a tangaliya weave in Kala cotton from Gujarat. A linen saree seen at the Pune garden.

It is not easy to capture the essence of San Francisco, certainly not in one or two visits. There is history, geography, sociology, architecture, finance, technology, education, gastronomy, biology, political science, arts and so much more, each at its finest, to explore within the city. It leaves me in awe every time I set out to wander here. 

The topography of its streets is striking with steep ascents and descents. You look one way and the ocean or downtown is in view. Look back and the road seems to touch the blue skies. Some of the most beautiful monuments you will ever see stand casually by busy roads. My favorite is the City Hall building. 

People seem to go the extra mile to tend to the gardens in front of their homes. No matter how miniature they may be , there is good taste and effort to make them look colorful and special. 

Another highlight is the number of remarkable bakeries strewn all over the city. It is always a challenge to limit carbs when I’m here. How can you say no to those almond croissants from Arsicault? And why should you when you can lay your hands on them once in a while? 

No need to feel guilty after that indulgence! The city has a park in every corner to get those steps you need. And the parks are far from being boring. Some have more than greenery and walkways to attract you. Dutch windmills, bison enclosures, sculptures and many other things will surprise you. 

The sea lions at the marina lie lazily while people walk their dogs nearby.

And all this is bonus on top of your staple attractions of the great bridges, fisherman’s wharf, Ghirardelli Square, Alcatraz cruises, cable car rides and museums. 

Yes in recent years the place is marred by some serious problems related to its homeless population. And yes, finding an affordable housing here is not easy. 

Despite the dark side the beauty of this remarkable city can’t be denied. 

Most things in the universe are like that, aren’t they?