"It's the best-kept secret for 25 years"

It is known simply as the Japanese Garden. But to those familiar with this 6 1/2 -acre oasis, tucked away in the middle of bustling Van Nuys, it is affectionately referred to as "Gene's Garden."

Since its dedication in 1984, Gene Greene has overseen this inspiring display of native plants, exotic birds, trees, waterfalls, lakes and streams - a public treasure that many don't know exists.

"It's the best-kept secret for 25 years," said Greene, who worked closely with the landscape architect who designed the garden.