05/13/2026
Palm Beach County Interesting Fact: Delray Beach’s Connection to Japan
There was once a Japanese agricultural settlement, Yamato Colony, in a north section of Boca Raton. They raised pineapples and other veggies for themselves and others, using Japanese farming techniques.
Unfortunately, the colonists suffered a setback during WWII, and many left for Japan.
After WWII, one of the last colonists, George Sukeji Morikami, donated his portion of land to Palm Beach County.
In 1977, Morikami’s donation became Morikami Park, a “cultural and educational center honoring the Yamato Colony’s legacy.”
It continues today, featuring meticulous, colorful Japanese gardens, a popular museum with fascinating exhibits, and a place for classes and workshops.
To explore this Palm Beach County gem, see:
https://morikami.org/
butlertitle.com