San Mateo Japanese Garden: A Tranquil Oasis
Experience tranquility in the heart of San Mateo at the Japanese Garden, a serene oasis of traditional design and cultural harmony.
Nestled within San Mateo's Central Park, the Japanese Garden offers a serene escape with traditional Japanese landscaping. Designed in 1966 by Nagao Sakurai, it features a pagoda, tea house, koi pond, and bamboo grove, symbolizing harmony and cultural appreciation.
A brief summary to San Mateo Japanese Garden
- 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, Central San Mateo, California, 94401, US
- +1650-522-7490
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit in late winter or early spring to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Attend a koi feeding session during the spring and summer months.
- Take your time to wander the garden's winding paths and appreciate the details of the design.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Central Park's rose garden and other attractions.
Getting There
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Walking
The Japanese Garden is located within Central Park at 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo. From downtown San Mateo, walk east on 5th Avenue towards El Camino Real. Cross El Camino Real and continue east on 5th Avenue. Enter Central Park and follow the signs to the Japanese Garden, which is located on the east side of the park. There is no fee to enter the garden.
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Public Transport
The San Mateo Japanese Garden is accessible via public transportation. Take SamTrans to the El Camino Real at 5th Ave stop. From there, walk east on 5th Avenue into Central Park and follow the signs to the Japanese Garden. SamTrans fares are typically around $2.25 per ride.
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Driving
The San Mateo Japanese Garden is located within Central Park at 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo. From Highway 101, take the CA-92 W exit towards Half Moon Bay. Then take the El Camino Real exit and head north. Turn right onto 5th Avenue and enter Central Park. Parking is available in the surrounding area, but not directly on-site. There are parking lots and street parking options, with time limits and fees that vary. Expect to pay around $3 for 2 hours at metered spots. Central Park Plaza parking offers hourly rates starting at $1.
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