View Japanese garden early this season

By popular demand, Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley recently announced that the Japanese Garden, an original feature of the Fabyans' private estate, will open its doors for the season extra-early on Sundays, May 3 and 10, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Regular hours are Wednesdays and Sundays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. from May 17 through October.

Join them in savoring a moment or two of harmony with nature in this exquisite sanctuary and discover how to add a touch of magnificence to your own back yard. Follow a genuine path to enlightenment while exploring Mount Fuji, among the garden's many charms. Be aware: the experience of inner calm may be a welcome side effect of your visit. The garden was first installed in 1909. The estate was owned by Colonel George and Nelle Fabyan from 1905-1939.

Private or group tours can be arranged for both sites during nonpublic hours. There is a suggested admission of $1 per person. For information, call (630) 377-6424 or visit www.ppfv.org.

The Fabyan Villa Museum and Japanese Garden are owned by the Kane County Forest Preserve District and operated by Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley.

Both sites are located in the Fabyan West Forest Preserve on Route 31, just north of Fabyan Parkway in Geneva. The Fabyan Villa Museum will open Saturday, May 16. The museum will be open from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. From June to August, there are special "Kids Days" from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays. Suggested donation for the museum is $2 for adults and $1 for children.