From DestinationSpaVacations

In The News
Julian Crews explores scenic Central Illinois
By
Jun 1, 2010 - 11:13:00 AM

There are many cornfields south of Chicago and flatlands as far as you can see. But if you know where to look, there are some amazing places out there.
 

 
It's a taste of Tokyo without the jet lag: the University of Illinois' Japan House.

For those who cherish this Champaign area attraction, it's an island of serenity in an increasingly frantic world.
 
"We love to have visitors and people come to enjoy this beautiful place," said Japan House's Kimiko Gunji.

You can see the garden for free, which features Japanese red maples, lilac trees and Korean boxwoods, which are part of the authentic landscape. The marvelous combination of exotic vegetation creates a wonderful aroma, adding to the experience of lifting away the stress and pressures of everyday life.

Master gardener James Bier spent half a century studying Japanese gardens, and he brought that expertise to the design of this garden.

"I'm trying to emulate as best we can, not copy, but get close to what you might see in Japan," Bier said.

Passing through the inner garden becomes a life lesson.

"You have to think about every single step you take," said Mindi Porebski of the Japan House. "It's not an even path, its rocky. It changes in elevation. So it really makes you slow down, think about each and every moment as you're walking through the garden."

For $6, you can participate in an ancient tea ceremony and savor the richness of Japanese culture.

Also in Central Illinois is the Heartland Spa in Gilman.

No junk food allowed at this rustic wellness center just 90 miles south of Chicago, where Oprah Winfrey, Burt Bacharach and other notables have visited.

The fitness center, with walking trails and gardens, melts away the stress so you can focus on what's really important.

"A balance of sleep and nutrition, exercise and positive mental well-being," said Heartland Spa's Mary Quinn.

To cut out the noise, you won't find televisions in your comfortable room.

"It's actually kind of nice to see you can get along without having a TV in front of you all the time," Quinn said.

A five day stay for you and a friend or loved one runs $1,100 total, but that includes meals, exercise classes, four massages, a facial and your room. It's a rejuvenating finish to your heartland journey.

Japan House
http://japanhouse.art.uiuc.edu/en/
2000 south Lincoln Avenue
Urbana, IL 61802
t 217.244.9934
f 217.333.9574


Heartland Spa
www.heartlandspa.com
1237 East 1600 North Road
Gilman, IL 60938-6112
(815) 683-2182
 

 

 

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