Tucked away in the hot Southwest Desert of Tucson is an unusual oasis, the Yume Japanese Gardens. Opened two and a half years ago, this tranquil dream (yume means “dream” in Japanese) is indeed a place of reflection and beauty. Comprised of five different gardens, there is a lovely koi pond with water lilies, a stone & gravel zen garden, bridges, and even a Japanese tea house. It has also become a venue for Japanese cultural plays, concerts, activities such as Children’s Day, ikebana classes, and doll exhibits. In addition, there is a beautiful Japanese gift shop as you enter the gardens. Images at www.yumegardens.org.