It was one of those weekends where for whatever reason each night had something to offer a little too enticing to pass up but it just so happened to turn out they all involved drinking...and too much of it. We had set out to tackle some recently opened restaurants and scenes around the city which warrant a post all their own (teaser: Brauhaus Schmitz). Regardless, I woke hazily on Sunday and decided I needed to infuse my life with some culture and balance a bit.
What made me think of the Japanese Tea House I'll never be entirely sure. It was one of those things that nearly everyone sees in all the tourist pamphlets and Lonely Planet guides but I can only imagine about 2% of Philadelphians have actually seen. But that became the task of the day. I recruited several friends and we set off to Western Fairmount park.
The Japanese House & Garden (Shofuso) is designed in a 16th Century style of an upper class member of society, such as a government official, high ranking priest, or scholar. But seriously now...WTF is it doing in Philadelphia? Allegedly the grounds were designed for the 1876 Centennial Exposition. It has since burned down a few times, been rebuilt a few times, and had numerous additions added from other expositions and collectors. That doesn't really explain a whole lot but some things just aren't worth examining too hard.
We called to ensure it was within our price range, and at a mere $3 student/senior rate ($6 otherwise) we decided to splurge. The house is truly beautiful and looks like something out of the Last Samurai - completely open, peaceful, and well kept. It is accented by an immaculate garden and huge coy fish pond. We wandered the gardens and house, and at the suggestion of the ticket booth woman, took some time to relax on the porch and reflect upon our lives.
We were in and out in about 1-1.5 hours making it a sweet day trip. It would also make a great date spot followed by a picnic. Gentlemen...take notes. Enjoy.
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