Located in the bustling city of Pune, Maharashtra, the Pune Okayama Friendship Garden, also known as the Pu La Deshpande Udyan, is a picturesque landscape that epitomizes the cultural exchange between India and Japan. The garden is named after the famous Marathi writer and humorist, Pu La Deshpande, and celebrates the sister city partnership between Pune and Okayama in Japan.
The Pune Okayama Friendship Garden was officially inaugurated in 2006 and is one of the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan. The garden stands as a testament to the friendship between the two cities, which commenced in 2005. This impeccably manicured landscape was designed after the 300-year-old Okayama's Korakuen Garden, which is one of the celebrated Three Great Gardens of Japan. The objective was to create a serene and culturally rich space that both Indians and Japanese could appreciate.
The garden combines elements of traditional Japanese garden art with Indian horticulture practices. It spans approximately 10 acres and includes a natural stream that has been transformed into a channel with charming bridges and shaded pathways alongside it.
Over the years, the Pune Okayama Friendship Garden has blossomed into a sought-after tourist destination for visitors from all walks of life. It is not just a place for leisure and picnics but also serves as a splendid backdrop for photography enthusiasts and a learning space for students of botany and landscape architecture.
The garden has also become a hub for cultural activities, especially those that promote Indo-Japanese relations. Its tranquil atmosphere provides an ideal environment for meditation and yoga sessions, making it a popular spot among health and wellness seekers.
As tourists walk through the garden, they are greeted with an array of harmoniously arranged elements, including stone lanterns, a koi pond, a Zen garden, and beautifully sculpted bushes. Seasonal flowers bloom in harmony, ensuring that the garden offers a refreshing experience with each visit.
With the growing interest in experiential travel, Pune Okayama Friendship Garden has seen a rise in thematic tours and nature walks. Interactive experiences such as bonsai workshops and Japanese tea ceremonies are now part of the offerings to attract tourists seeking cultural immersion.
Eco-tourism and sustainable practices are also gaining prominence. The maintenance of the garden emphasizes the use of organic fertilizers and advocates for water conservation through efficient irrigation systems.
The garden is easily accessible and open to the public throughout the week. It is a space that combines history, beauty, and cultural appreciation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pune.
In conclusion, the Pune Okayama Friendship Garden is a significant representation of the cultural bond between India and Japan. It stands as a peaceful haven amidst urban chaos and continues to play a vital role in promoting tourism and cultural exchange between the two countries.
