People often think that they have to visit this lovely coastal garden during late May and early June, when its signature flowers are in bloom. But the garden is such a stunning little anomaly it's worth stopping by whenever it's open. Not only is this Japanese-inspired oasis located on a Maine island, it's widely considered one of the best in the nation - ranked eleventh in a survey of Japanese gardens in North America. Here you'll find pretty pathways that wander beside reflecting pools and along a stream, little antique lanterns, stone bridges, and benches for quiet contemplation. The garden was originally built in the late fifties to rescue trees and flowers in danger of being destroyed. The transplanter was given a year to move the substantial collection of prized plants - which he did, installing them in what had been an alder patch across from a historic inn. The garden has undergone many transformations over the years, but it has always ranked among the state's finest. Stop by during daylight hours from May 1 through October. If you can identify this Far East oasis, send us a comment here, drop us a note at PO Box 679, Camden, ME 04843, or whip us an e-mail at editorial@downeast.com.