A beautiful Chinese, Hawaiian, and Japanese Cultural Garden at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is a hidden gem right in plain site. This garden was designed by Richard C. Tongg, FASLA, in 1962. Its location? Look for it downstairs at the Terminal 2 ticketing lobby and the E gates of the airport. You’ll be in the right vicinity where you’ll find Southwest Airlines. It’ll be hard to miss, now that you know it’s there.
The C.B. Lansing Memorial Garden
In 1995, the C.B. Lansing Memorial Garden was added to the Cultural garden. Its constuction and resurrection was dedicated to the memory of Chief flight attendant Clarabell Lansing of Aloha Airlines. She lost her life during Aloha Flight 243 from Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu when the aircraft suffered an explosive decompression in 1988. Clarabell was the only fatality aboard. According to witnesses, she was standing when the plane lost a third of its roof, immediately sweeping her out at 24,000 feet over the ocean. Her body was never recovered. The story of the incident was the subject of a made-for-TV movie entitled, “Miracle Landing” in 1990. The Garden Memorial now provides a serene space for travelers and locals alike to enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the airport.
Cultural Garden Features
The garden is easily accessible to both departing and arriving passengers. As you walk through the garden, you’ll find a well-maintained path, that winds through lush greenery, accented by bridges and stepping stones. The gentle movement of its waterfalls and lazy movement of the koi fish, as they make their way through large ponds, create a calming effect. The strategic location ensures that visitors can appreciate the garden’s beauty without straying too far from their travel plans.
The garden’s design incorporates a range of tropical foliage and masonary that reflect Hawaii’s diverse culture. You will find influences of Chinese, Japanese, and Hawaiian sculptures and features. Visitors will see vibrant hibiscus flowers, lush palm trees, and various ferns that contribute to the garden’s tropical ambiance. The selection of plants not only enhances the garden’s aesthetic appeal but also highlights the diverse flora native to the Hawaiian Islands. In addition to all its features, the garden includes several thoughtfully placed benches and shaded areas where visitors can sit and enjoy the surroundings. If you have a long lay over or arrived earlier than expected, don’t hesitate to bring some food or beverage to enjoy some peace and quiet before boarding your next flight.
