Soka University of America

Can you believe this fountain? It is right there in the central plaza next to the Founders Hall I posted in my first discovery. The detail is astounding.

[Note: I've posted a large gallery of shots on my blog, some of which will appear here on Trover. If you're looking for the full set, just follow this link: http://www.shootthesun.com/weblog/?p=2223]

Wood Canyon as seen from the rear gardens of the Aetheneum.

[Note: I've posted a large gallery of shots on my blog, some of which will appear here on Trover. If you're looking for the full set, just follow this link: http://www.shootthesun.com/weblog/?p=2223]

Soka University is probably the best-kept secret in all of Orange County, and probably all of California itself. You mention it to the locals and they just give you blank stares.

But it is the kind of place that will stick in your memory for the rest of your life. The grounds of the campus are situated at the ridge between Aliso and Wood Canyons, and command a view of the area that can only be described as staggeringly beautiful.

To say those canyons have competition from the scenery inside the grounds is to make the understatement of this young century.

Established just fifteen short years ago, the university seems to have spared no expense to build a campus worthy of its purpose. Here, you will find a delicate balance of architectural styles - heavily influenced by the very early European Renaissance, but containing elements of post-modernism, classical Greek, medieval Italian and even a hint of Empiric Spain.

But it isn't just a pretty face. The school has been consistently voted best in its treatment of its freshman class. It requires one semester study abroad, and has partnered with universities all over the world to make that a reality.

I'm afraid I didn't do too much looking into the academic side of the house. I was really too overwhelmed by its beauty.

And its calm. Come here on a weekend day and you'll spend most of the time in solitude. This was a welcome change from the parking lot called Highway 1, which took up the bulk of my late afternoon a day earlier.

I could breathe in this place, move from one astounding sight to another and just feel the calm descend over me.

That no-one in Southern California seems to know it exists is almost a comfort, really. It might mean that my second visit, whenever that may happen, will be as blissfully free of the tourist trappings as the first.

Either way, though, I just can't wait to go back.

I've posted a large gallery of shots on my blog, some of which will appear here on Trover. If you're looking for the full set, just follow this link: http://www.shootthesun.com/weblog/?p=2223

Visit Soka University of America

Activities

Aliso Viejo travel guide

Popular places to visit

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

After visiting Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Aliso Viejo. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its cosy cafes.

Woods Cove

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Woods Cove during your trip to Laguna Beach? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Soka Performing Arts Center

You can enjoy a show at Soka Performing Arts Center during your stay in Aliso Viejo. Stroll along the seaside or seek out the surfing spots.

Orange County Natural History Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Orange County Natural History Museum in Laguna Niguel. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Alta Laguna Park

Alta Laguna Park is just one of the places to see in Laguna Beach, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its acclaimed art galleries.

Laguna Niguel Regional Park Tennis Center

Catch an event at Laguna Niguel Regional Park Tennis Center during your trip to Laguna Niguel. Stroll along the beaches or discover the area's sunsets.