The Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco’s secret garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful garden inspired by ancient Japanese tradition – a small oasis with a fairytale atmosphere located inside the Golden Gate Park, the largest park in San Francisco. It is truly a secret garden framed by characteristic bridges and ponds surrounded by typical Japanese nature. This unique location is perfect to get away from the chaos of the city for a bit of peace and serenity. Among cherry trees, magnolias, camellias and centenary bonsai trees rise wonderful structures such as a spectacular five-story high pagoda, a Buddhist temple and a traditional and ever-present Tea House, located on the banks of a delightful lake in the center of the garden.



The Japanese Tea Garden covers approximately 2 hectares of land and is today considered the oldest Japanese garden in the United States. This nature area was created in 1894 for the California Midwinter International Exposition, commonly called the "Midwinter Expo" or "Midwinter Fair". Once the exhibition was done, the entire space was entrusted to the landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara who transformed it into a fascinating permanent installation, an attraction that today represents one of the most loved and visited destinations in the city.



The garden is perhaps one of the park's most charming spots, the perfect setting to spend a few relaxing hours before resuming the journey to the next attractions in San Francisco. The Japanese Tea Garden offers wonderful views in every season. It is open 365 days a year, from 9AM to 4:45PM during the winter and from 9AM to 5:45PM during the summer. Inside there is also a small shop where you can buy typical Japanese products, including an infinite variety of teas. For further info you can consult the official Japanese Tea Garden website.

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