Think you can’t find a quiet spot in the hustling-bustling sprawl that is downtown Mississauga? I have to tell you a secret. You can if you’ve checked out Kariya Park in Mississauga.
Drive too fast and you may miss it. Located almost at the corner of Burnhamthorpe Drive and Kariya Drive, Kariya Park is a little hidden away zen garden right by the Sussex Centre.
It’s a popular spot for quiet walks, engagement and wedding photos and a place for meditation.
Styled after a typical Japanese garden, Kariya Park was opened in 1992 to honour Mississauga’s twin-city relationship with Kariya, Japan.
The friendship bell, found at the covered pavilion, is made out of bronze and was donated by the city of Kariya.
What I love about this park:
- A pond which is home to ducks as well as the occasional visiting heron;
- A wooden bridge for romantic photos and just to stop and gaze over the pond;
- Woodland area for quiet relaxation or reading;
- A small cascade which creates a soothing sound;
- Trails around the area for a leisurely stroll.
Kariya Park In The Fall Is Gorgeous
During our visit we noted a heron, standing so still you’d think he was a stuffed bird. Koi and carp would occasionally swim up close to the surface of the water flashing white or bright orange.
The park in the autumn is awash in colour – rusty reds are dominated by golden leaves, and the occasional greenery of hardier trees.
I included a visit at Kariya Park to my list of things to do in Misssissauga this summer. Having visited the park in the winter and now the fall, I think it’s a place to visit any time of the year.
Other Things To Do While In The Area
Kariya Park is small. Your visit won’t last too long, so you can make it a stop in the morning (when it’s quiet) and plan the rest of your day exploring Mississauga. You will probably spend at most, an hour wandering the grounds and taking a moment to relax.
If you love the outdoors, nearby is Riverwood Park, with trails along the Credit River. It’s west of Kariya Park along Burnhamthorpe Rd.
South of this central downtown Mississauga area is Port Credit, along Lakeshore Rd. It’s a very popular spot for summer strolls along the marina and the street. There are numerous places to dine and shop.
Finally, if you want to explore more nature trails, I recommend Rattray Marsh along Lake Ontario, west of the Clarkson area. Here you’ll find a wildlife refuge for birds.
Directions And Parking At Kariya Park
Kariya Park is open to the public seven days a week, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, through the entrance on Kariya Drive, just off Burnhamthorpe Road east of the Mississauga Civic Centre.
Paid parking is available on the street just outside of the park.
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1 Comment
I went to Kariya Park and filmed a video.
youtu.be/lqvXFRHOWKY
I had so much fun at this park. The cherry blossoms are absolutely beautiful . The atmosphere is relaxing and amusing. I immediately felt happy and excited when I saw the pink cherry blossoms, cute ducks, and pond. It was a place worth visiting.