The garden was a gift to the university from Mrs. Loraine Miller Collins in memory of her husband, Earl Burns Miller.
The koi pond contains hundreds of fish that are fed by visitors using specific, university-approved food.
The garden was designed to be viewed from multiple vantage points, each offering a different perspective of the landscape.
It is one of the few Japanese gardens in the United States to have been constructed entirely through private donations.
The site hosts a collection of stone sculptures and carvings imported directly from Japan.
The garden's ecosystem is designed to be self-sustaining, utilizing water circulation systems to maintain the pond quality.
The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a 1.3-acre contemplative space located on the campus of California State University, Long Beach. It features a central koi pond, traditional stone lanterns, and a handcrafted wooden teahouse. Designed by landscape architect Edward R. Lovell, the garden was established in 1981. The design incorporates a winding path system that provides varying views of the waterfall and curated foliage. It functions as a living laboratory for university students and a community botanical resource. The site includes a zig-zag bridge, or yatsuhashi, intended to slow the pace of the visitor's movement. Rare specimen plants, including various species of Japanese maples and pines, are maintained throughout the grounds. It is officially accredited as an arboretum.
The wooden bridge overlooking the main pond offers the clearest panoramic view of the waterfall and teahouse.
Bring a camera, as the interplay of light on the water and the seasonal foliage changes frequently.
Walk slowly to follow the intended design path, which is meant to encourage mindful observation.
Check the university calendar before arrival to ensure the garden is not closed for private events or academic ceremonies.
Trying to see the entire garden in a rush; the layout is specifically designed for slow, deliberate exploration.
Closed on Mondays and Fridays; frequently closed for private campus events and during certain academic holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume; do not feed the koi anything other than sanctioned fish food; do not step into the planting beds.
