When you think of downtown Los Angeles, you think of smog, people, office buildings, traffic jam, and more.  Well, think again!

Yes, you can find peace and serenity in downtown Los Angeles.  WHERE?  At the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center. 

Located in the prime area of Little Tokyo District is the JACCC which is home to the beautiful James Irvine Japanese Garden. 

Jamese Irvine Japanese Garden, called the Seiryu-en (Garden of the Clear Stream) was designed by Dr. Uesugi with inspiration from many famous Japanese Gardens, especially in Kyoto, Japan.  This garden is the best kept secret in Little Tokyo (Los Angeles).

Featuring a 170 ft. stream, the garden begins as a waterfall in the upper reaches.  In the middle cascades, the stream divides, and finally the stream become a quiet murmur, ending in a calm pond.  Surrounded by blooming trees and foliage, the garden offers much needed peacefulness to the downtown residents and workers.

Azalea, Bamboo, Camellia, Japanese Wisteria, Fornight Lily, Magnolia, Japanese Black Pine all come together in the garden.

The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC's) new On the Veranda series offers cultural workshops, lectures and demonstrations amidst the beauty of newly renovated Japanes Garden.

Programs planned at the JACCC Garden Room are:

• Ikebana (flower arrangemet)
• Chado (tea ceremony)
• Bonsai
• Shodo (Calligraphy)

The Garden is open to the public, and available for special events and weddings.  Go check it out.