Explore Summer Programs at Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on CSULB

The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at California State University, Long Beach is hosting three hands‑on cultural programs this June, ranging from traditional dance to pottery repair [1]. Visitors must reserve a spot for groups of up to six, as the garden requires reservations for all public visits [4].

Key takeaways

• Free Japanese Ondo dance workshop on June 7, 1‑3 p.m., led by June Miyamoto Donovan [1].
• Self‑guided watercolor session on June 18, 4‑5 p.m., part of the monthly “Art Days” series [1][3].
• Kintsugi pottery workshop on June 20, a three‑hour class costing $150, taught by artist Kat McDowell [1].
• Reservations are required for all events; groups may include up to six participants [4].
• The garden’s “Art Days” rotate themes each month, with watercolor featured in June [3].

Traditional Dance and Community Celebration

The summer schedule opens on Sunday, June 7 with a free Japanese Ondo dancing workshop from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The session is instructed by June Miyamoto Donovan of the Long Beach Japanese Cultural Center, who will introduce participants to folk dances traditionally performed at community festivals [1]. While the workshop is free, attendees must reserve a spot for their group, with each reservation covering up to six people—making it an ideal outing for families and friends [4].

Art Days and Kintsugi Workshop

Later in the month, the garden’s ongoing “Art Days” program offers a self‑guided watercolor session on June 18, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. This monthly event encourages visitors to draw inspiration from the garden’s koi ponds, seasonal blooms, and landscaped vistas. Some watercolor supplies will be on hand, though participants are encouraged to bring their own materials, and oil or acrylic paints are prohibited [1][3].

On June 20, artist Kat McDowell will lead a three‑hour Kintsugi workshop, teaching the centuries‑old Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer and gold‑toned finishes. The class uses a non‑toxic, cashew‑based urushi lacquer that cures faster than traditional materials, and participants will learn step‑by‑step techniques to transform broken ceramics into unique artworks [1]. The workshop costs $150 per participant, and space is limited to maintain an intimate learning environment [1].

Why it matters

These summer programs highlight the garden’s role as a living museum that blends cultural education with hands‑on creativity. By offering free dance instruction, guided art sessions, and specialized craft workshops, the garden provides accessible avenues for community members to engage with Japanese artistic traditions. The requirement for reservations ensures manageable group sizes and preserves the garden’s tranquil atmosphere for all visitors. Upcoming events and additional programming details can be found on the garden’s reservation portal [1][4].