The oldest public Japanese garden in the United States
The garden began as a “Japanese Village” exhibit at the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894. Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese landscape designer, expanded and cared for it for decades, and his family lived on the grounds until they were forced out during the incarceration of Japanese Americans in World War II. The garden you walk today still follows much of the Hagiwara layout.
What to see inside
Highlights include the arched drum bridge (taiko bashi), which you can climb if you are steady on your feet; the five-tiered pagoda, built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition; a bronze Buddha cast in 1790; the dry Zen garden; and koi ponds framed by maples and azaleas. In March and April, cherry trees bloom along the paths. Allow 45 minutes to an hour; paths are narrow, with steps and gravel in places.
Tickets, free hours and timing
San Francisco residents with ID enter free at any time. Everyone else can enter free on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10 a.m.; outside that hour, non-resident tickets cost roughly $12 to $16 depending on season and day. The garden opens daily at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. from March to October (last entry 5:30) and 5 p.m. from November to February (last entry 4:30). Arrive at opening for quiet paths and better photographs, and use the Music Concourse Garage or Muni.
Tea, fortune cookies and the gift shop
The Tea House serves green tea, matcha and light Japanese snacks with a view over the ponds. The garden is often credited with introducing the fortune cookie to the United States, which Makoto Hagiwara served here in the early 1900s; the claim is disputed, but you can still buy them. Pair a visit with the de Young next door or the Botanical Garden across the road.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Japanese Tea Garden free?
It is free for San Francisco residents with ID at any time, and free for everyone on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10 a.m. Otherwise non-resident tickets cost roughly $12 to $16.
How long do you need at the Japanese Tea Garden?
Most people spend 45 minutes to an hour, or longer if you stop at the Tea House.
When do the cherry blossoms bloom?
Usually in March and April, depending on the weather.
Is the Japanese Tea Garden wheelchair accessible?
Partly. Some main paths are accessible, but many areas have steps, gravel and narrow paths, and the drum bridge is very steep.
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