In the heart of Little Rock, a symbol of friendship between two cultures stands. It’s a stunning, underrated garden hiding in Arkansas that you must visit at least once. The garden is filled with beautiful, architectural structures that commemorate the legacy of a martial arts legend. Once you see this garden, you’ll fall in love with it.
Located in downtown Little Rock, on the grounds of the Statehouse Convention Center is the H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden.
Manuel Ortiz/Google This lovely garden was opened in 2007 as a token of friendship between Arkansas and South Korea.
The welcome gate is a stunning piece of art, combining materials from both places.
鄭帆吟/Google
Arkansas and South Korea couldn’t be any more different, but there are still similarities.
Kat/Google
Grand Master Haeng Ung Lee, for whom this garden is commemorating, felt welcomed in Arkansas.
Ni N./Google He believed that the terrain was similar to South Korea’s, and that the people were equally warm.
So, it was a no brainer when he wanted to make Arkansas the headquarters for his martial arts organization, the American Taekwondo Association.
Pouya Kalantari/Google
Though this garden isn’t massive, it is absolutely gorgeous.
Mike Pool/Google
In the middle of this peaceful oasis, is a 9-foot-tall fountain where you can sit and reflect during the day…
Matthew Kull/Google
…but it’s at night where this fountain really comes alive.
Matt Bullard/Google
Even if you’re not into martial arts, you’ll still find this to be a sacred space.
Chad Churchwell/Google You’ll sense an air of great respect and acknowledgement as you walk through the area.
Take some time to admire the different statues and artifacts sprinkled throughout the garden.
Mari/Google And don’t forget to read the meaning behind each of them. Of course, since this is a garden, there must be foliage that adds more beauty to the space. You’ll find lovely azaleas, gardenias, Weeping Cedars, a Kwanzan cherry tree, pansies, and more. This oasis is perfect for an afternoon or evening stroll.
So, have you ever walked through this underrated garden in Little Rock? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. And for more information about the story behind the garden and gate, visit the website.
Manuel Ortiz/Google
This lovely garden was opened in 2007 as a token of friendship between Arkansas and South Korea.
鄭帆吟/Google
Kat/Google
Ni N./Google
He believed that the terrain was similar to South Korea’s, and that the people were equally warm.
Pouya Kalantari/Google
Mike Pool/Google
Matthew Kull/Google
Matt Bullard/Google
Chad Churchwell/Google
You’ll sense an air of great respect and acknowledgement as you walk through the area.
Mari/Google
And don’t forget to read the meaning behind each of them. Of course, since this is a garden, there must be foliage that adds more beauty to the space. You’ll find lovely azaleas, gardenias, Weeping Cedars, a Kwanzan cherry tree, pansies, and more. This oasis is perfect for an afternoon or evening stroll.
And while you’re in Little Rock, grab a bite to eat at this underrated restaurant.
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Address: H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden, 101 E Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201, USA
