Cultural Exploration of Japanese Temple Gardens in Coronado

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Explore the beauty of Japanese temple gardens at the cultural event in Coronado.

News Summary

An evening cultural event titled ‘Japanese Temple Gardens’ will be held at the John D. Spreckels Center, featuring a Travel Talk and an Armchair Travel presentation. Attendees can connect over travel experiences, and the presentation will dive into Japanese temple gardens given by an expert in the field. The event also encourages cultural attire and will serve light refreshments. Coupled with the opening of a new boutique hotel, this event marks a significant cultural moment for the community.

Coronado, CA – An evening of cultural exploration titled “Japanese Temple Gardens” will take place at the John D. Spreckels Center on August 20, 2025. The event will feature two main activities: a Travel Talk from 5 PM to 6 PM, followed by an Armchair Travel presentation at 6:30 PM. This initiative aims to provide attendees with insights into Japanese culture through the lens of its renowned temple gardens.

The Travel Talk, which is free and informal, invites travelers to come together and share their personal experiences, tips, and destination advice. This segment is open to all, regardless of previous travel experience. Participants can engage with fellow travel enthusiasts, connecting over shared stories and gaining inspiration for future journeys.

Following the Travel Talk, the Armchair Travel presentation will delve deeper into the unique world of Japanese temple gardens. The presentation will be delivered by Susan Anderson, who has visited more than 35 temples across Japan. As the daughter of Helen Anderson, the founder of the Armchair Travel series, Susan brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for Japanese culture and spiritual architecture to the forefront of this event. Her extensive experience as a former staff member at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo adds depth to her exploration of the subject.

Attendees are encouraged to enhance their cultural experience by wearing kimono or other traditional Japanese attire. The event will also offer light refreshments to create a welcoming environment. Pricing for the Armchair Travel admission varies, providing options to suit different preferences.

Registration for the event is available online at ca-coronado.civicrec.com, via phone at 619-522-7343, or in person at the front desk of the Spreckels Center, located at 1019 Seventh Street. A passport is not required for participation; only curiosity and a love of travel are necessary to join in this cultural journey.

This event follows the announcement of a new boutique hotel, The Bower, which is set to open in Coronado by the end of February 2025. The hotel will be situated on the grounds of a former Japanese tea garden, embracing a design philosophy known as wabi-sabi that celebrates the beauty of natural imperfection. The Bower, designed by Delawie and SFA Design, will feature clean lines and organic materials, aiming to create a unique hospitality experience that reflects the essence of Coronado.

With 39 rooms, The Bower will include a lobby designed to provide a warm, residential feel, along with a dive bar and restaurant—highlighting Coronado’s first rooftop venue offering panoramic views. The hotel will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Dive, contributing to the local dining scene.

The development of The Bower is seen as a transformative community project, with involvement from local residents and stakeholders intended to ensure that the hotel not only meets but exceeds community expectations. Together, the cultural exploration event and the hotel opening signify an enriching period for Coronado, marking notable initiatives that celebrate and preserve its rich heritage while promoting a spirit of community and engagement.