One of my absolute favorite stops during my time in San Francisco was a visit to the enchanting Japanese Tea Garden. I mean it’s no secret that San Francisco is jam packed with fun things to do and see. From touring a fortune cookie factory to indulging in some authentic dim sum, the adventures are truly endless.
Whether you’re seeking a moment of peaceful reflection, a chance to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, or a taste of traditional tea ceremonies, the Japanese Tea Garden is the perfect destination. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about visiting the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco.
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Japanese Tea Garden San Francisco History
Whether you’re a history buff or not, San Francisco’s Japanese Tea Garden has a fascinating story rooted in the early 20th century. It was initially created as part of the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, where a Japanese Village exhibit gained immense popularity.
After the exposition, landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara proposed the idea of a permanent Japanese garden on the site, and with the city’s support, he transformed it into a stunning oasis. He wanted everyone to enjoy the beauty.
The gardens expanded over time, featuring iconic elements like the Moon Bridge, pagodas, and the beloved Tea House. But, during World War II, the garden faced neglect due to the internment of Japanese Americans. It was thankfully restored afterward, becoming a symbol of peace and reconciliation.
Today, visitors can explore the meticulously maintained landscapes, partake in traditional tea ceremonies, and bask in the serene beauty that continues to captivate all who visit these historic Japanese Tea Gardens.
Japanese Tea Gardens SF Quick Facts
- Address: 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118.
- Hours: The Japanese Gardens are open every day from 9 am-4:45 (Winter) and 9am-5:45 (Summer).
- Admission Fee: Adult tickets range from $12-$16 depending on the season. Tickets for the Japanese Tea Garden can be purchased here or at the gate.
- Pets allowed? No pets are allowed in the garden.
Getting to the Japanese Gardens From SFO
The garden is nestled within the bustling city, just 14 miles from the San Francisco International Airport. Although close to downtown, this serene oasis is a hidden gem that offers a captivating blend of Japanese culture, picturesque landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere. You’ll surely forget you are so close to downtown.
It’s easiest to reach via car with ample parking available at the Music Concourse Garage. If needing to rent a car from SFO, I recommend checking out the DiscoverCars search engine to find the best deals!
The gardens are also accessible via public transportation including the 44-O’Shaughnessy bus and the N-Judah streetcar.
If hoping to explore all of Golden Gate Park, there’s a free shuttle that runs 7 days a week throughout the park!
When is the Best Time to Visit the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco?
As you are probably aware, San Francisco experiences great weather year round with temperatures rarely dipping below 50. With that being said, the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco is a delightful destination to visit throughout the year.
However, if you’re looking for the optimal time to experience the garden, consider planning your visit during the spring months, particularly from March to May. During this time, the cherry blossoms (Sakura) grace the garden with their delicate beauty. It’s truly a magical sight to see!
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Things to Do at the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco
Stroll the Garden Grounds
As mentioned earlier, the Japanese Tea Garden has picturesque landscapes, including koi ponds, serene walking paths, pagodas, the iconic Moon Bridge, and beautiful blooming cherry blossom trees (Sakura) during the spring. Spend a few hours admiring the beauty of the botanical gardens while stopping for all the photo ops.
Drink Tea at the Teahouse
The Tea House can be found in the center of the gardens overlooking a scenic pond. It’s a great place to stop by to truly immerse yourself in the Japanese culture. The menu currently features 5 different types of tea, matcha, and traditional Japanese snacks. Be sure to try the famous Tea House Cookies!
Attend an Event
The gardens occasionally host special events, cultural performances, free entry days, and exhibits showcasing aspects of Japanese art and traditions. You can check out this site for event updates!
Visit the Gift Shop
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the gift shop, where you can find a variety of Japanese inspired items, including tea sets, traditional artwork, and unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Do I Need to Purchase a Gardens at Golden Gate Park Pass to Visit the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco?
No, you do not need a Gardens at Golden Gate Park Pass to visit the Japanese Tea Garden. BUT, if you hope to explore all 3 gardens inside the park, you will save money by buying the pass.
The pass gives you unlimited admission (for 3 days) to the Japanese Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the San Francisco Botanical Garden. If you are a local and want to enjoy the gardens year round, there’s also an annual membership available.
Other Things to Know Before Visiting the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco
- Accessibility: The gardens strive to provide accessibility for all visitors. Wheelchair access and designated accessible parking spaces are available, as well as accessible restrooms.
- Photography: Photography is permitted within the gardens, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the scenic beauty and create lasting memories. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of instagrammable moments!
- Guidelines: To preserve the tranquility and beauty of the gardens, make sure you follow guidelines such as staying on designated paths, refraining from touching or picking flowers, and respecting the serenity of the space. Remember these gardens date back to the late 1800’s. We want everyone to be able to experience the beauty for years to come!
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Final Thoughts
There you have it, everything you need to know about visiting the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco. Whether you’re captivated by the blooming cherry blossoms in spring, intrigued by the art of tea ceremonies, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Japanese Tea Garden has something to offer everyone.
So, next time you find yourself in San Francisco, be sure to carve out time to visit this hidden sanctuary and allow yourself to be transported to the beauty and grace of Japan (minus the 20 hour plane ride).
I hope this blog post peaked your interest on visiting the Japanese Tea Garden. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.
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Thank you to Yaopey Yong, Saira, and Rafael AS Martins for the Japanese Tea Garden photos. I discovered their work on Unsplash.com. Check them out!
Disclosure
This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.
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