japanese tea garden tours

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Japanese Tea Garden

Welcome to the oldest operating public Japanese Garden in North America. Natural beauty and tranquility greet you amongst graceful Japanese maples, twisting pines, clipped azaleas, and cherry trees.

Today’s Hours

Open 9am – 6pm Last entry today is 5:30pm

• What’s in bloom

Cast in 1790 in Japan, the Buddha, named Amazarashi-No-Hotoke, was donated by Richard Gump.

Dry Landscape Garden

Also known as a Zen Garden, this garden was designed by Nagao Sakurai in 1953 to represent hills, mountains and running water.

The lovingly restored pagoda was originally built for the 1915 Panama- Pacific International Expo, and designed to represent a Buddhist’s “treasure tower.”

Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Azaeleas bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Wisteria bloom throughout the garden in April and May.

Visit the Tea House to enjoy a meditative cup of tea and popular Japanese refreshments at a custom-designed “irori” or farmhouse-style family table. The Tea House is located at the site of the original teahouse built for the Mid-Winter Exposition of 1894, nestled in the center of The Japanese Tea Garden overlooking the picturesque south-facing pond.

Walking tours

Enjoy a 60 minute walking tour of the Japanese Tea Garden led by San Francisco City Guides. Explore one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco and learn about classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden. Cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Purchase authentic Japanese items including tea and sake sets, glazed ceramic bowls and vases, kokeshi and daruma dolls, a variety of green teas, maneki neko figurines, and children’s collectibles. Like the Tea House, the Gift Shop possesses distinctively Japanese style in its architecture and interior design. The Gift Shop is located above the Tea House on the Terrace level in a two-story house that was part of the “Japanese Village” built for the 1894 Exposition and was rebuilt in 1959.

Become a member

Enjoy members-only perks and unlimited access to the Gardens, all while supporting our mission.

Award-winning Restoration of Japanese Tea Garden’s Pagoda

Ginkgo ‘Survivor Trees’ at the Japanese Tea Garden

Refreshments and Treats at the Tea House

Japanese Tea Garden Pagoda Landscape Renovation Project

Since the creation of Golden Gate Park in 1870, each garden has enjoyed a rich and varied history. Dig deeper into how the Gardens of Golden Gate Park have evolved through the years.

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Japanese Tea Garden

Neighborhood: Golden Gate Park

Description

After the successful 1894 Mid-Winter Exposition San Francisco decided to keep the Japanese Village exhibit. Makoto Hagiwara was hired to be the new manager of the Garden and immediately set about expanding the Garden three-fold to its size today. At over three acres, it is the oldest public Japanese Garden in the United States, and it has a magnificent collection of plants and trees maintained in the Japanese style by a staff of professional gardeners.

An impressive variety of flora greets you as you enter a Japanese inspired wonderland of small scenes created throughout the Garden. The peace and quiet of the Garden encourages one to slow down and be mindful of the surroundings — beautiful botanical masterpieces. Stroll among the koi ponds and enjoy the ever-present skills of the gardeners as they present their carefully designed and shaped plant sculptures and rock arrangements representing real scenes from the outside world. Marvel at the structures of Japanese design — the tea room, gates without fasteners, and the magnificent pagoda, a relic from the 1915 World’s Fair in San Francisco. A perfect walk for those seeking a peaceful afternoon…

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Tour Length: Approximately 1 hour.

Meet just inside the entrance to the garden.

Please note: Private group tours required for groups of 8 or more.

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415-375-0468

Mailing Address San Francisco City Guides c/o SF Public Library 100 Larkin Street San Francisco, CA 94102

EIN: 85-3688709

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Complete Guide To The Japanese Tea Garden In San Francisco

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: November 14, 2022

UPDATED: October 20, 2023

Japanese Gardens are a place for quiet reflection and can be a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of a city. The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco is no different as it provides an incredible place of serenity and beauty.

But with so many things to do in San francisco, is the Japanese Tea Garden worth your time and money?

Having visited San Francisco multiple times as well as spending an afternoon in the Japanese Tea Garden, we hope to help you find the answer to this exact question.

Here’s how we will help you plan your visit:

• What is the SF Japanese Tea Garden and where to find it
• Ticket options and how to save money
• Things to do at the Tea Garden
• Best time to visit with pros and cons
• Photos from our time at the Tea Garden

Let’s explore the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco!

What Is The San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden?

The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco offers both locals and visitors in the city a chance to experience the natural beauty of a traditional Japanese style garden.

Today, this garden made possible by a combination of public and private partnerships between the San Francisco Botanical Garden Society as well as the San Francisco Recreation and Parks.

The San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden is open every day of the week, even on holidays.

In the summer months, the Tea Garden is open from 9:00am – 6:00pm and then on a shorter schedule from 9:00am – 5:00pm in the winter months.

History Of The San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden

If you are a history buff, keep on reading because this garden is the oldest Japanese Tea Garden open to the public in the United States.

Originally built as part of the World’s Fair for the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894, the Tea Garden was created as a Japanese Village exhibit.

When the fair ended, the Japanese architect Makoto Hagiwara became the caretaker of the garden. Hagiwara expanded the grounds to its current size of five acres and poured much of his time and talents into creating the perfect garden.

As World War II broke out, many Japanese Americans in San Francisco were forced to evacuate their homes and move to internment camps.

Unfortunately, after the war was over, the Hagiwara family was not allowed to return to their home at the tea garden, but the families memory lives on through many pieces in the garden.

Today, the SF Japanese Tea Garden is one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco. This garden was easily one of our favorite stops in the Golden city.

Where Is The Japanese Tea Garden In San Francisco?

The San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden is located in the heart of Golden Gate Park. The Tea Garden is on Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive between Stow Lake and the de Young Museum.

San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden Address : 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118

Google maps location .

Other points of interest nearby include the California Academy of Sciences and the San Francisco Botanical Gardens.

How To Get To The San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden

Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation when visiting the Japanese Tea Garden because space near the garden is extremely limited.

This means there are numerous eco-friendly ways to get to the SF Japanese Tea Garden.

You can consider public transportation, the weekend Golden Gate Shuttle, walk, bike or use the Music Concourse parking garage.

Several Muni buses and light rails are available to help you access various sections of Golden Gate Park. Then you will just have to orientate yourself in the right direction depending on your stop.

Public Transport Options

Here are three transportation options:

• Muni’s 44 Bus Line (O’Shaughnessy) – Stops right outside the entrance to tea garden.
• North Judah Streetcar – Get off at 9th Avenue, walk into the park via 9th, then head right on Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.
• 5 Fulton Bus – Exit at 8th Ave / Fulton St and walk into Golden Gate Park. Turn right onto JFK Ave and continue past the de Young Museum to the Tea Garden.

Here’s how to reach the Japanese tea garden from the two popular tourist areas of San Francisco:

• From Fisherman’s Wharf – Take the F-trolley to Market Street, then the North Judah streetcar to 9th Ave. Walk into the park via 9th, then head right on Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.
• From Downtown – Head to whichever downtown Muni station you are close to and take the North Judah Streetcar to 9th Ave. Walk into the park via 9th, then head right on Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.

Golden Gate Shuttle

The free Golden Gate Park Shuttle is a great alternative as well because this shuttle operates seven days a week.

Here are the Golden Gate Shuttle operating hours:

• Saturdays, Sundays and holidays : 9:00am – 6:00pm (every 15 mins)
• Monday to Friday : 12:00pm – 6:00pm (every 25 mins)

Get off at the ‘de Young Museum/Japanese Tea Garden/SF Botanical Gardens’ stop.

Parking For The SF Japanese Tea Garden

As we mentioned above, parking is extremely limited at the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden, especially on sunny weekends and during the busy summer months.

You may be lucky to find some of the minimal free street parking within Golden Gate Park and Fulton Street. But if you can’t find any available spaces, you can opt for paid parking.

Paid parking for cars and bicycles is available in the Music Concourse Garage underneath the de Young Museum.

Access to this garage is at Fulton St. and 10th Avenue on the North side then at Concourse Drive near Cal Academy from the South. This garage is open seven days a week from 7:00am – 7:00pm year-round.

Rate for the Music Concourse Garage are below:

•  Monday-Friday : $5.25/hr
• Weekends : $6.25/hr
• Special Event : $6.25/hr
• Evening Rate : No charge (after 5:30 pm, good until closing)

How To Buy SF Japanese Tea Garden Tickets?

You will need a ticket to enter the San Francisco Japanese tea Garden.

Tickets can be purchased either online from the official Tea Garden website or onsite prior to entry.

If you are visiting during the peak season of summer, we would recommend you purchase your tickets online to avoid waiting in long queues.

Tickets purchased online are good for any date and time.

Here are the current SF Japanese Tea Garden ticket prices:

• Adults (Nov-Jan): $10
• Adults (Feb-Oct): $13
• Seniors  (ages 65+ w/ID): $7
• Youth  (ages 12-17): $7
• Children  (ages 5-11): $3
• Children  (under 5): Free

Free Ticket Options

For those on a budget, we are happy to tell you there are a few ways you can gain free entry into the gardens.

As of April 2022, the Japanese Tea Garden is now free for all residents of San Francisco with a valid ID.

Non-residents can also visit during the free hours for everyone from 9:00am – 10:00am every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

All veterans and visitors receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) will receive free general admission as well.

Popular San Francisco Tours

If you are tight on time or want to see more of beautiful Golden Gate Park, a tour would be a good way to spend an afternoon in San Francisco.

Here are two top rated tours for San Francisco featuring Golden Gate Park:

• Golden Gate Park Segway Tour – In this 2.5 hour tour, a local guide will lead you to top attractions including the Japanese Tea Gardens, the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
• GoCar 3-Hour Tour – Explore the parks and beaches of SF with a talking GoCar during this 3 hour tour as you pass by famous attractions such as Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf and more.

Gardens Of Golden Gate Pass

The Gardens of Golden Gate Park Pass is perfect for those who plan to visit the Conservatory of Flowers, Japanese Tea Garden, and San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Each pass grants you unlimited visits to all 3 gardens for 3 Days with just one ticket.

Gardens Of Golden Gate Passes can be purchased online or at each of the 3 garden locations. Keep in mind tickets purchased online non-refundable and non-transferable.

Things To Do At The San Francisco Japanese Tea Gardens

The best advice we can give you when it comes to the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden is to give yourself enough time.

There are many things to do at the garden and you will find yourself wanting to slow down so you can take in the gorgeous scenery surrounding you from every angle.

1. Enjoy A Match In The Tea House

A highlight of the garden is the Tea House which you can find smack dab in the center of the action. An incredibly picturesque landscape and a south facing pond surround the Tea House.

This is where many people stop for a break and enjoy a cup of match, light snacks and even a few sweat treats. You can see the tea house menu here .

2. Pick Out Your Own Pearl

At the back of a tea house, you will come across a large fish tank filled with many oysters. This is where an employee will tell you a short history about these beautiful Japanese pearls.

For a small fee (about $20), you can pick the oyster of your choice from the tanks and watch as it is pried open in front of your eyes. The last step is choosing a jewelry casing to house the colorful pearl.

3. Walk Over The Arched Drum Bridge

This drum bridge is one of the coolest bridges we have ever seen. It was actually built in Japan, dismantled and then resembled in San Francisco.

As you stand in front of the drum bridge, notice how is reveals a reflection of a full circle or full moon over water. The design encourages those who enter the Tea Garden to slow down.

4. Take A Free Walking Tour

San Francisco City Guides offers free walking tours almost every day in the Japanese Tea Garden. As long as you have purchased an entry ticket for the garden, you can attend the walking tour.

Personally, we loved this free tour and learned many fascinating stories about San Francisco as well as the tea garden. We highly recommend this tour which typically begins around 1pm.

This tour starts directly inside the entrance to the gardens and prior registration is not required. Check the official SF City Guide website for official tour times.

5. Visit The Serene Koi Pond

A koi pond is a traditional feature of Japanese gardens because these fish are sacred in the Japanese culture. Koi represent strength, courage, patience and success as they are known to swim against strong currents.

If you are traveling with kids, they will love looking for the bright colored Koi in the pond of the tea garden.

6. Stroll Through The Zen Garden

Zen Gardens have been a large part of the Japanese culture since the 13th century. A Zen Garden typically serves to help encourage and aid with meditation.

In this garden, you will find the small gravel raked into minimalist patterns which helps to create a sense of peace and restore order. We thought the Zen Garden was the most peaceful section throughout the entire Japanese Tea Garden.

7. Identify Native Japanese Trees

The free walking tour will help you learn about Japanese landscaping techniques as well as find important items throughout the garden.

We don’t want to give anything away, but you can expect to see flowering cherry trees, magnolias, Japanese maples, pines, cedars, cypress trees and so much more in this gorgeous garden.

8. Walk A Stepping Stone Path

Stepping stones in a Japanese garden play a very integral part in the experience. Unlike traditional straight and narrow garden paths, walking on stepping stones can take a bit more concentration.

This style of path encourages visitors to slow down and take in more of their surroundings. These individual stones are meant to help you absorb the garden to its fullest.

9. Admire The Five Story Red Pagoda

The towering five story red pagoda recently underwent a two year restoration project. In April 2022, the pagoda has officially reopened to its full glory after its first appearance at the World’s Fair over 100 years ago.

The San Francisco Recreation and Park Department even coordinated a ceremony to mark this special occasion. Now the pagoda stands as a beacon for local officials, history lovers and Japanese American community members.

10. Buy A Souvenir In The Gift Shop

This gift shop is located above the Tea House on the Terrace level of the garden. The building is similar to the tea house in that it possess a distinctive Japanese architecture.

Here you can purchase authentic Japanese items such as tea and sake sets, glazed ceramic bowls, maneki neko figurines, a variety of green tea and children’s collectables.

11. Learn About The Fortune Cookie

Without spoiling the story, Mr. Hagiwara is rumored to have brought the fortune cookie from Japan to the United States in the late 1890’s.

Back then in Japan, fortune cookies were savory rather than sweet. It is also believed San Francisco confectioner Benkyodo, developed the vanilla recipe for the fortune cookie to appease Western palates.

Take the free walking tour or ask about the fortune cookie in the tea house when you visit.

12. Find A Stone Lantern

In Japan, Stone lanterns were originally used in Buddhist temples. Lit lanterns were considered an offering to Buddha and often represented teachings to help him overcome the darkness of ignorance.

Stone lanterns, or Ishidourou, have become iconic and now serve to add to the balance or harmony in any garden. As you stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, see how many stone lanterns you can find.

Best Time To Visit The SF Japanese Tea Garden

We visited the SF Japanese Tea Garden in October 2022 right as the trees were transitioning into their vibrant fall colors.

While the temperature was perfect and the crowds were minimal in fall, cherry blossom season in late March or early April would be the best time to visit the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden.

Around late March, the cherry blossom trees will explode with a billowy pink and white bloom. These blooms last only about two weeks, but symbolize renewal and the ephemeral nature of life in Japanese culture.

Is The Japanese Tea Garden In San Francisco Worth it?

Yes, the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden is worth it.

This tea garden is filled with rich history and stunning Japanese architecture. The price is extremely fair even for non SF residents as well.

When we visited, this tea garden was brimming with both locals and tourists which is always a good sign. The staff were super friendly and we highly recommend the free walking tour if you can fit it into your schedule.

Pros To Visiting The SF Japanese Tea Garden

If you aren’t sure if the Japanese Tea Garden is worth your time, here are a few pros to consider:

• The oldest Japanese Tea Garden in the United States
• Chance to take a free walking tour to learn about Japanese landscaping
• Garden is free to SF residents with free visiting times for non-residents too
• Ability to slow down and experience a gorgeous garden

Cons To Visiting The Japanese Tea Garden

And here are a few cons to consider when visit the Japanese Tea Garden:

• The garden may be crowded depending on time of year
• The flowers may not be at full bloom if visiting in the off season
• If you are not an SF resident, there may be a fee when you visit

SF Japanese Tea Garden FAQ’s

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about the San Francisco Japanese tea Garden.

Unfortunately, no pets are allowed in the SF Japanese Tea Garden.

Unless you are a resident of San Francisco, the Japanese Tea Garden will cost money. Tickets range from $3-$10 depending on age and time of year. However, non-residents can visit the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden for no cost during the ‘free hours for everyone’ from 9:00am – 10:00am every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

It will take about 2 hours to see the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco. Plan one hour for the guided walking tour and then another hour to explore the gardens yourself or visit the tea house.

Yes, you can take as many photos as you would like at the SF Japanese Tea Garden.

In a Japanese Garden, you should not pick flowers, climb trees, throw objects into the Koi Pond, disturb the stones in the Zen Garden or step into any fenced area.

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We hope this detailed guide to the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden helps with planning your visit to the Golden City!

Please let us know if you have any questions about the Japanese Tea Garden or San Francisco in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This Guide? Pin It For Your Visit!

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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• Japan Tea Tour 2024
• Nepal Tea Tour 2019
• Taiwan Tea Tour 2019
• Custom Tea Tour

Japan Tea Tour 2020

Welcome to our Japan Tea Tour 2020!  This tour includes visits to Tokyo, Shizuoka, Uji, Shiga, and Kyoto. You will get to explore the complex and fascinating tea culture of central Japan.

Tea has a long and storied history in Japan. Arriving from China sometime before the 9th century, tea quickly became one of the most enduring cultural icons in Japan. Initially reserved for priests and monks, tea drinking now plays an important role in all levels of society.

On this tour, you will experience the Zen Buddhist influenced formal Japanese tea ceremony, tour tea gardens and tea producing factories, taste traditional Japanese cuisine and tea paired sweets, and drink some of the freshest and best tasting green teas available.

See what other tea travelers have said about Little Tree’s Japan Tour:

Amazing!! Mary P. Japan Tour 2017

The tour was an investment for me but I felt it was worth every penny. Tea Traveler Japan Tour 2017

I thought the tour was fantastic. Very well organized and well researched. LOTS of tea education. Tea Traveler Japan Tour 2017

Thank you for such a wonderful experience! I still have a hangover from our tour! I miss not only the place and the activities we did, but also the company i was with! Sharee Japan Tour 2017

Everything was just perfect! Sharee Japan Tour 2017

Excellent! I learned a lot every day Paola M. Japan Tour 2017

Loved the Japan Tea Tour! Totally recommended!! I´ve tried other tea tours in Asia and this is the absolute best! Paola M. Japan Tour 2017

Had a great time on the Japan Tea Tour. Matthew and Kristen were great. Would travel again with them. Dan P. Japan Tour 2017

** The reservation window for this years Japan tea tour has closed.  Look for 2024 dates coming soon! **

Our Japan 2024 Tea Tour is here! 

Tour Dates: May 17th – 25th, 2020

Cities/areas: tokyo, shizuoka, uji, shiga, and kyoto, itinerary in brief:.

Day 1 – Tokyo – Arrive in Japan

Day 2 – Shizuoka – Shinkansen travel, Fermented Tea Factory, & High Mountain Tea Garden

Day 3 – Shizuoka/Kyoto – Tea Auction House, Tea Factory, Ceramic Steet, Shinkansen to Kyoto

Day 4 – Kyoto – Japanese Garden, Tea Ceremony Lesson, & Bamboo Workshop

Day 5 – Kyoto/Uji – Toji Antiques Market, Travel to Uji, Uji Tea Street, Tea Lecture, Tea Dinner

Day 6 – Uji – Matcha factory, Uji Tea Gardens, Tea Picking, Tea Factory, Tea Shrine, Tea Game, & Home Dinner

Day 7 – Uji – Wagashi Tea Sweets Factory and Ceramics Studio

Day 8 -Uji/Kyoto – Zen Meditation, Sencha Tea Fair, return to Kyoto, Kyoto tea shops and Higashiyama

Day 9 – Kyoto – End of tour/return to Tokyo

Detailed Itinerary

-Depart home airport. All flights need to arrive in Narita Airport (NRT) by 3pm on May 17th. Depending on where you are traveling from, you may need to leave your home airport on the 15th or 16th.

Here are some ideas on what to pack .

All guests will arrive in Japan by 3pm. Upon arrival at Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT), you will be greeted in person and taken to your hotel in Tokyo where you can relax and unwind after your long journey.

After relaxing at the hotel, we will enjoy a welcome meal together. After dinner, we will be taken back to the hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 2 – Shinkansen, Tea Factories, Fermented Tea, & High Mountain Tea Garden

On our first full day in Japan, we will travel from Tokyo to Shizuoka City while visiting some beautiful tea gardens along the way.  We will travel mostly by the famed Shinkansen Train , or Bullet Train, to Shizuoka Prefecture, home to the iconic Mt. Fuji.  Our train journey will take most of the morning.  We will stop near Isagawa to explore Shizuoka tea making.  We will first visit a unique kind of tea factory.  We will have an opportunity to see a specific type of fermented tea only found here.  Yamabuki-nadeshiko, also known as Rose, is a new type of tea developed in Japan.  Similar to some Pu’er teas, Yamabuki-nadeshiko uses a special microbial fermentation process to create a healthy tea and a one of a kind flavor.  We will learn about this special process and tour the high-tech clean rooms used to make this unique tea.

After visiting the fermented tea factory, we will travel into the hills for a picnic lunch.

After lunch, we will visit an organic high elevation tea garden and factory nestled in the steep slopes of the Shizuoka mountains. This tea garden is special because the tea plants are grown on steep, rocky slopes at a higher altitude than most other Japanese tea. The rocky soil and steep slopes provide excellent drainage and impart a higher mineral content to the tea leaves giving a special, unmistakable flavor.

After visiting the fields, we will tour the organic tea processing factory , where we will see the steaming, rolling, and drying process that is used to create the finished tea. After seeing the process first hand, we will be able to taste some freshly finished tea, processed just hours before. There is nothing like the smell and taste of freshly processed tea. A true tea lovers delight!

After our factory visit, we will travel on to Shizuoka city where we will check into our hotel and enjoy dinner before retiring for the night.

Day 3 – Tea Auction House, Tea Factory, & Tea Street

After our tour of the auction house, we will visit a tea factory in downtown Shizuoka City. We will tour this large tea factory and see the processing and packaging of several types of Shizuoka green tea.

After our auction and factory tours, we will enjoy lunch before exploring Shizuoka’s famous Tea Street.  Here we will find all kinds of tea merchants and tea ware retailers.  This is a great opportunity to taste and buy Shizuoka teas and hand made tea pots.  If we are lucky, we might even get a peak of Mt. Fuji, which lies just outside of Shizuoka City.

After enjoying Shizuoka’s Tea Street, we will return to Kyoto by Shinkansen.

Day 4 – Matcha Factory, Japanese Garden, Tea Ceremony, & Bamboo Workshop

After enjoying breakfast in our hotel, we will travel to the Koyamaen Matcha Factory.  Here we will see how the most honored Japanese green tea, Matcha, is made.  We will see how the fresh leaves are processed, ground into fine green powder, and packaged for sale.  We will also learn the perfect method for making a proper bowl of Matcha green tea.

After lunch we will travel to a bamboo workshop.  Here we will get to meet artisans specializing in the production of tools specific to the tea ceremony. We will get to see the production of bamboo water ladles, tea scoops, and whisks. This detailed, hand-crafted work has been passed down from generation to generation and is a fascinating process to witness.

After our tea bamboo workshop visit, we will return to Kyoto.  Once in Kyoto, you will have some time in the early evening to explore the city before enjoying dinner together at Iyemon restaurant.  Iyemon specializes in modern Japanese cuisine with an eye towards traditional Japanese tea culture. After dinner, you will be taken back to your hotel for the night.

Day 5 – Toji Market, Uji Tea Street, Tea Lecture, and Tea Dinner

Uji is where we will be staying for the next few days of the tour.  Uji is the birthplace and cultural center of Japanese tea.  After arriving in Uji, we will be taken to our Ryoken for check-in.  A Ryoken is a traditional Japanese inn.  Think bed and breakfast, but Japanese style.  Although quite different from a western hotel, a ryoken stay is a quintessential Japanese experience and should not be missed.  Each guest is given a Japanese robe for lounging and traditional futon mattresses rest simply on tatami floors.  Our Ryoken in Uji is very simple and rustic with shared bathrooms and shared Japanese baths only.

After check-in we will have some free time to explore Uji.  The town of Uji is situated on the banks of a peaceful river lined with shops, restaurants, and shrines. Take time to stroll along the river, relax in a tea shop, visit a temple, or do some shopping.  The famed Uji Tea Street is a pedestrian shopping street chock full of tea shops and ceramics retailers.  We can stroll around browsing the local wares and enjoy a delicious Matcha ice cream cone!  After enjoying Uji’s Tea Street, we will meet at a local restaurant by the river for dinner and a tea lecture.

Day 6 – Tea Picking, Gyokuro Garden, Factory Visit, & Tea Game

After learning about Gyokuro, we will be taken to a finishing factory. This factory processes several different types of tea. We will get to see the processing of green tea raw material, the sorting of this material into different grades, and the final blending of different batches to arrive at a finished product of the highest quality. This factory tour will showcase tea production at its finest and most complex.

After our tea game we will enjoy dinner at a local home.  Here we will get the rare opportunity to be welcomed into a family home and enjoy a home cooked meal.  After dinner we will be taken back to the ryoken for the night.

Day 7 – Ceramics Studio & Tea Sweets

 Day 8 – Zen Meditation, Sencha Fair, Free Uji Exploration, Kyoto tea shops and exploration

Outside of the Sencha Fair, a small market is setup with vendors selling tea wares, ceremony tools, tea room decorations, snacks, sweets, and loose leaf tea.  This is not a typical tourist market.  Most items are high quality pieces that would satisfy even the most serious tea master.

For our last night in Japan, we will have a final group dinner.  We will get to discuss the tour, ask any final questions, and enjoy one last dinner together.

After dinner, we will be transported back to the hotel for the night.

Day 9 – Departure

Your final day in Japan will include transportation back to Tokyo.  This concludes your tour with Little Tree Tea, but you don’t have to go home yet. Consider staying longer in Kyoto or elsewhere in Japan!

What other tea travelers have sai d about Little Tree’s Japan Tour:

Check out more pictures from previous japan tea tours.

Double Occupancy: $5,188 per person

Single traveler: $5,988 per person

Price includes:

All transportation in Japan

All lodging

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Japanese Tea Garden

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Japanese Tea Garden - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Japanese Tea Garden: A Haven of Zen in Golden Gate Park

RENAULT Philippe / Getty Images

San Francisco's Japanese Tea Garden is one of the city's quietest corners, a place that is a contradiction: at the same time one of the city's most popular sights and a peaceful place to get away from the urban hustle and bustle. You can visit it when you go to Golden Gate Park .

Before you go, it may help you to know a little bit about how the oldest Japanese garden in the United States got there. The garden was created for the San Francisco Mid-Winter Exhibition of 1894 as a Japanese Village. After the expo ended, Golden Gate Park Superintendent John McLaren let Japanese gardener Makoto Hagiwara turn it into a Japanese-style garden. 

Visiting the Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden covers about three acres. You can make a quick visit in an hour or so, but you could also linger for a few hours to stroll through all the garden areas.

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit the Japanese Tea Garden when you can see cherry blossoms in March and April. It's also especially photogenic in fall when the leaves change color.

The Tea Garden can get temporarily busy and crowded when a busload of tourists arrives. If you arrive at the same time as a big group, walk to a far corner of the garden first and wait until they disperse.

Things to Do at the Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is, first of all, a garden. Like most Japanese gardens, it's made up of small garden areas and also features beautiful buildings, waterfalls, and sculptures.

Any time of year, the garden's classical structures are eye-catching (and Instagram-worthy). The entrance gate is made from Japanese Hinoki Cypress and built without the use of nails. Nearby, you'll see a Monterey Pine tree which has been growing there since 1900. Just inside the gate is a hedge clipped into the outline of Japan's Mount Fuji.

The drum bridge is a classical feature that reflects in the still water below it, creating the illusion of a full circle. The most spectacular structure in the garden is the five-story-tall pagoda. It came from another world exposition held in San Francisco in 1915.

In the garden, you'll find cherry trees, azaleas, magnolias, camellias, Japanese maples, pines, cedars, and cypress trees. Among the unique specimens are dwarf trees brought to California by the Hagiwara family. You'll also see lots of water features and rocks, which are considered the backbone of the garden's design.

Any time of year, the Japanese Garden Tea House serves hot tea and fortune cookies. You might think of fortune cookies as a Chinese treat. In fact, you might have even visited the Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco's Chinatown. And you may be wondering why the Japanese Garden serves Chinese cookies. In fact, the garden's creator Makoto Hagiwara invented the fortune cookie, which he first served to guests of the Japanese Tea Garden.

The tea and snacks are mediocre at best and the experience is decidedly "touristy," but it doesn't deter visitors and the Tea Garden is often packed.

A good way to better understand the Japanese Tea Garden is on a guided tour. Docents from the San Francisco City Guides lead tours of the Japanese Tea Garden and the schedule is on their website.

What You Need to Know About the Japanese Tea Garden

The Tea Garden is at 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, just off John F. Kennedy Drive and next to the De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. You can park on the street nearby, or in the public parking lot beneath the Academy of Sciences.

The garden is open 365 days per year. They charge admission (which is lower for City of San Francisco residents), but you can get in free a few days a week if you go early in the day. Check their current hours and ticket prices on the Tea Garden website .

Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed in the garden, but getting around with them can be tricky. Some of the paths in the garden are made of stone and others are paved. Some of the paths are steep and others have steps. There are accessible paths, but markings may be hard to follow. The Tea House can accommodate wheelchairs, but you have to climb a couple of stairs to get into the gift shop.

You can also see more plants and flowers in the San Francisco Botanical Garden and the ​ Conservatory of Flowers .

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Japanese Tea Garden

Exploring the tranquil beauty of the japanese tea garden in golden gate park.

If you’re seeking a slice of serene paradise in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling Golden Gate Park, look no further than the enchanting Japanese Tea Garden. This exquisite garden offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of a Japanese-style haven, where nature’s beauty, tranquility, and harmony come together in perfect unity.

A Glimpse into History

The roots of the Japanese Tea Garden trace back to the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, where it began as a “Japanese Village” exhibit sprawling across approximately one acre. Post the fair, a gentleman’s agreement between Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara and superintendent John McLaren blossomed into the creation of a permanent Japanese-style garden. Mr. Hagiwara invested not only his personal wealth but also his heart and soul into crafting a garden of unparalleled perfection. This sanctuary expanded to its present size of around 5 acres, serving as a family residence for the Hagiwaras until the unfortunate internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

Serenity and Delight Await

Today, the Japanese Tea Garden stands as a cherished gem in San Francisco’s attractions, boasting classic features that embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics:

• Architectural Wonders : Wander across an arched drum bridge that adds a touch of elegance to the landscape. Delight in the sight of pagodas and stone lanterns, which infuse the garden with an air of tradition.
• Paths of Tranquility : Meander along stepping stone paths that guide you through the lush oasis. These paths lead you to unexpected corners where native Japanese plants flourish.
• Ponds and Zen Delight : Be captivated by serene koi ponds, their waters reflecting the beauty around them. A Zen garden invites you to bask in the meditative ambiance, a haven for introspection.
• Cherry Blossom Magic : In the months of March and April, the garden becomes a canvas of pink and white hues as cherry blossom trees paint the scene with their delicate blooms.

Unveiling the Garden’s Secrets

Plan your visit according to the following schedule to make the most of your time at the Japanese Tea Garden:

• Garden Hours : The garden welcomes visitors every day, with winter timings from 9 AM to 4:45 PM and extended summer timings from 9 AM to 5:45 PM.
• Tea House and Gift Shop Hours : Both the Tea House and Gift Shop invite you daily, without holiday closures. In summer (from March 1 to October 31), they’re open from 9:00 am to 5:45 pm, while in winter (from November 1 to February 28) hours are 9:00 am to 4:45 pm.
• Pet Policy : It’s important to note that pets are not allowed within the serene confines of the Tea Garden.

A Treasured Gift Shop Experience

The Gift Shop, situated above the Tea House on the Terrace level, is a haven for authentic Japanese treasures. From tea and sake sets to glazed ceramic bowls and vases, the shop overflows with unique finds. Delight in exploring kokeshi and daruma dolls, a variety of green teas, maneki neko figurines, and collectibles designed especially for children.

Savoring Serenity at the Tea House

The Tea House itself is a treat for the senses. With its meditative ambiance, it offers a space to enjoy a cup of tea and sample delightful Japanese refreshments. The Tea House’s architecture and interior design mirror distinct Japanese style. A custom-designed irori, or farmhouse-style family table, welcomes you to linger and embrace the picturesque landscape and the tranquil pond below.

The Fortune Cookie Tale

As you explore the garden’s nooks and crannies, you’ll stumble upon an intriguing story. Legend has it that Mr. Hagiwara introduced fortune cookies to the United States from Japan during the late 1800s or early 1900s. These cookies, initially made by hand on-site, grew in popularity, prompting collaboration with San Francisco confectioner Benkyodo. The fortune cookies we know today, sweet and vanilla-flavored, emerged from this partnership. This sweet tradition continues to this day, with a fortune cookie tucked lovingly into every bowl of Japanese rice crackers sold at the Tea House.

Address: Japanese Tea Garden, Golden Gate Park, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118

Website: For more information on visiting hours, admission fees, and special events, visit the official Japanese Tea Garden website .    Admission Prices

A visit to the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park is not just a walk through a beautifully landscaped park; it’s an immersion into Japanese culture, art, and philosophy. Whether you’re seeking a moment of solitude, interested in Japanese horticulture, or simply looking for a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll, the Japanese Tea Garden offers a peaceful and enriching experience that lingers long after you’ve left its gates.

Info provided by  SF Rec and Park Department

Image by  Tobias Kleinlercher / Wikipedia

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SUMMER HOURS: June 1st - August 31st Tues-Thurs 8am-12pm   Fri-Sun 8am-12pm, 5pm-8pm

• Jul 29, 2023

Tea Tours – An Introduction to Japanese Tea Culture

Tea – a simple drink that has been a distinct part of Japanese culture for centuries. From ancient rituals to contemporary practices, the history of tea in Japan is a story of tradition, hospitality, and a deep connection with nature.

The origins of tea in Japan can be traced back to the 9th century when Buddhist monks returned from China, carrying not only tea leaves but also the knowledge of tea preparation. Initially used for religious ceremonies and medicinal purposes, tea slowly transformed into a symbol of hospitality and a means to cultivate meaningful connections between people.

It was during the Kamakura period (12th - 14th century) that tea culture in Japan flourished, with the emergence of Zen Buddhism. The simplicity and mindfulness of Zen philosophy blended seamlessly with the ritualistic aspects of tea preparation, leading to the development of Chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony. Chanoyu emphasized the art of tea preparation, presentation, and consumption as a way to attain inner peace and harmony.

As tea culture took root in Japan, so did the idea of creating spaces dedicated to the appreciation of tea and nature. The concept of a Japanese tea garden, known as roji (露地, 'dewy ground'), began to flourish during the Muromachi period (14th - 16th century). Inspired by the principles of Zen, these gardens were designed to evoke a sense of tranquility, simplicity, and harmony with our natural surroundings.

Roji gardens embraced a minimalist aesthetic, featuring carefully arranged stepping stones ( 飛び石, tobbiishi), meandering pathways, and strategically placed plants to create a serene ambiance for tea ceremonies. The Roji became an integral part of the tea experience, providing guests with an opportunity to cleanse their minds and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature before entering the Tea House, invoking feelings of being somewhere secluded and fully within nature.

Now, the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix invites you to experience Japanese tea culture for yourself with an introductory tour and tea tasting experience! On select Tuesdays, from 10:00 am - 11:30 am and 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm (Oct. - Jun.), we will offer a unique opportunity to learn, appreciate, and indulge in Japanese tea culture with exclusive Tea Tours!

Led by our knowledgeable docents and staff, the Tea Tours begin with a guided exploration of Musoan, our tea house. Adorned with seasonal art displays and sukiya style architecture and design, the tea house serves as a testament to Japanese aesthetics. As you delve into its history, you will uncover the profound role it plays in preserving and perpetuating the history and tradition of Japanese tea culture.

The highlight of the tour awaits you in entry room of the Tea House. Here you will indulge in a Japanese casual tea tasting service, where you will be treated to an array of delightful teas and Japanese snacks served on authentic dishware. Sip on sencha, with its vibrant green hue and refreshing taste, as you connect with the essence of Japan's lush landscapes. Experience the warmth of genmaicha, its nutty aroma a reminder of comforting hearths, and let the gentle roasted fragrance of hojicha transport you to picturesque countryside of Japan.

Our Tea Tour concludes with a visit to the roji, the contemplative tea garden surrounding the tea house. Walk along the carefully arranged stone paths, listen to the gentle rustle of leaves, and embrace its peaceful ambiance. Our docents will reveal the purposeful design of the roji, offering insights into its role as a gateway to spiritual reflection and a harmonious prelude to the tea ceremony.

The Tea Tours at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix promise an hour of tradition, discovery, and serenity. Whether you are a tea enthusiast, a lover of Japanese culture, or simply seeking a moment of repose amidst nature's embrace, our Tea Tours are a must-experience journey. We highly encourage guests that want to experience Chanoyu, or Tea Ceremony, to join us on this tour first . Our Tea Tour experience will give you a glimpse inside the history and meaning of Japanese tea culture, making your future Chanoyu experience that much more impactful.

Come, embrace the unique culture of Japanese tea, and let the beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden transport you to Japan without ever leaving Phoenix.

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Bloomberg Connects

In partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, Portland Japanese Garden now offers another way to access and experience the organization for those near and far. We’re excited to share that we are now on Bloomberg Connects , a free mobile app that offers access to more than 250 museums and other cultural organizations! Our guide allows you to immerse in our garden spaces, our history, and our programmatic offerings from near and far.

Download the Bloomberg Connects App to access our Virtual Guide

Google Arts & Culture

Portland Japanese Garden was selected as one of 16 partners to celebrate its home city’s thriving cultural scene through the Google Arts & Culture platform . The Garden is proud to be a part of this prestigious project and part of the Google world as it reinforces how we are an indelible thread in our city’s fabric–its history, its culture, and its appeal. Google Arts & Culture is a digital platform and free mobile app that puts the treasures, stories and knowledge of over 4,000 cultural institutions from 85 countries at one’s fingertips. Alongside other local and renowned organizations such as the Japanese American Museum of Oregon, Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, and Portland Art Museum, we have collectively contributed content to “Profoundly Portland,” a hub that celebrates and uplifts our community . Portland is the first city in the American Pacific Northwest to be highlighted on this platform.

Click here to visit Portland Japanese Garden’s page on Google Arts & Culture.

Download the free Google Arts & Culture App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

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Japanese Tea Garden  San Francisco

Visit tea house and gift shop.

Tea House and Gift shop are Open Daily, no holiday closures

Summer (3/1 through 10/31): 9:00 am to 5:45 pm

Winter (11/1 through 2/28): 9:00 am to 4:45 pm

No Pets allow to the Tea Garden

The Garden Admission

Please purchase tickets at San Francisco Recreation and Park Department website here.

Getting to the Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is located in Golden Gate Park, near the corner of Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive and Martin Luther King Drive.

The Japanese Tea Garden is served by several public transit routes including 44-O’Shaughnessy bus that stops immediately at the Tea Garden, as well as the N-Judah streetcar, 5 and 7 buses. Muni information  here .

Parking for cars and bicycles is located in the  Music Concourse Garage . Access to Music Concourse Garage parking is from Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. (enter the park at 9th Ave and Lincoln Way, garage entrance will be third right) or from Fulton Street at 10th Avenue. Street parking is also available on Golden Gate Park streets including MLK Drive, Nancy Pelosi Drive, and Stow Lake Drive.

To learn more about access to the Japanese Tea Garden, more information and access to other sites in the Music Concourse area can be found  here ,

The free Golden Gate Park Shuttle offers access to the Japanese Tea Garden and the eastern half of Golden Gate Park with stops along JFK Drive, and at the Music Concourse steps away from the Tea Garden’s entrance. The shuttle operates 7/days per week:

Monday-Friday, 12 noon to 6pm

Saturday, Sunday and Holidays, 9 am to 6pm

Learn more about the shuttle and access to Golden Gate Park  here .

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Nitobe Memorial Garden is open. Book your visit at the link below.

Visit Nitobe Memorial Garden

Welcome to Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese stroll garden and authentic tea house located at the University of British Columbia (UBC).

Nitobe Memorial Garden is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. “I am in Japan. ” These words were spoken by Emperor Akihito—as he walked through the garden.

Nitobe Memorial Garden celebrates the memory of Dr. Inazō Nitobe (1862-1933), a remarkable Japanese figure whose goal was “to become a bridge across the Pacific.” Throughout his life, Dr. Nitobe strove to promote a better understanding of Japanese culture in the West at a time when Japan was inconceivably foreign in the minds of most Westerners. Unfortunately, he died on October 15th 1933, in Victoria, British Columbia, en route to Japan following a conference of the Institute of Pacific Relations in Banff, Alberta.

Nitobe Memorial Garden was created as a memorial to Dr. Nitobe and his dream. The garden can be seen as a bridge connecting cultures: visitors from around the world meet and learn about each other and Japanese culture. Even the tea house suggests a space of intercultural understanding, as visitors gather here to enjoy the Japanese tea ceremony, a practice in which a bowl of tea is passed with deep respect from guest to guest, and from which each person drinks.

Nitobe Memorial Garden was designed to create a reverence for and sense of harmony with nature. Norman Mackenzie, president of the University of British Columbia played a central role in the creation of the garden. Dr. Nitobe and President Mackenzie worked together at UNESCO and were friends. In support of the project the Government of Japan sent Kannosuke Mori, a renowned landscape architect from Chiba University, to design and build the garden and to ensure its authenticity. Each structure, lantern, stone, shrub and tree was carefully built, placed, or pruned with a respect for the space and the materials at hand. As a result, a piece of the long history of Japanese horticulture has made its way into a small pocket of British Columbian forest.

From Dr. Mori’s design and work on the Garden, relationships with the local Japanese Canadian community were established. Dr. Mori was able to recruit Japanese Canadian gardeners who provided labour and support as the garden was developed. These gardeners assumed responsibility for the Garden’s care and maintenance over many years after Professor Mori’s departure.

The garden is beautiful in all weather and highlights the passing of the seasons: cherry blossoms shower the garden in spring, irises bloom in summer, maple leaves glow red and yellow in fall. Trees—both native and Japanese—are pruned in the Japanese tradition to frame the garden in winter. No matter what time of year, carpets of moss, bridges that span a koi pond and iris bed, and stone paths that cross waterfalls, create a peaceful atmosphere that invites the visitor to reflect on both the beauty of nature and its place in their lives.

A visit to Nitobe Memorial Garden is a window into Japanese culture and brings to light an important aspect of Japanese-Canadian history.

For information about your visit to the garden, including seasonal hours, please click here .

To read more about Nitobe Memorial Garden’s curator, Ryo Sugiyama, please click here .

Inazō Nitobe and Bushidō

Who was Dr. Inazo Nitobe (1862-1933)?

History of the Garden

Discover the different types of lanterns in Nitobe Memorial Garden.

The Tea House and Roji

A classical structure designed for the practice of the Japanese discipline called chadō (Way of Tea).

Relations with the Japanese Canadian Community

Enjoy a formal Japanese tea ceremony, presented by Urasenke Foundation.

Understanding Japanese Gardens

Learn more about Shintoism, Buddhism and other religions followed in Japan.

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