Winter Walk showcases Fabyan Japanese Garden in Geneva

More than 25 visitors toured the snow-covered grounds of the historic Fabyan Japanese Garden at Fabyan Forest Preserve in Geneva for the Winter Walk program Saturday.

Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden Director Hannah Walters and Assistant Director of Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Margaret Eagan split the group into two and shared the history of the garden through the present day as well as highlighting the structures and plants and trees within the garden. Walters shared with the group that Japanese gardens are designed for all seasons, adding winter "is a beautiful time to see the garden."

The garden was designed in 1910 for George and Nelle Fabyan for their expansive estate (which comprised of land on both sides of the river) and the couple developed it through their ownership of the property until 1939. The Kane County Forest Preserve purchased the Fabyan property in 1940 and the Japanese Garden has had two extensive renovations since 1974.

"The great thing about Japanese gardens are they pack a punch," said Walters. "You can do a lot in a little space with a Japanese garden. And the reason for that is because of the curving pathways."

In under 40 minutes, visitors learned all about the garden, were able to walk over the steeply curved iconic bridge over the pond and were treated to tea afterward.

The garden is open to the public with limited hours May 1 through October 15. Private or group tours are available by appointment. Call (630) 377-6424 or visit www.ppfv.org for details.