Japanese Friendship Garden: A San Diego Oasis
Experience Japanese culture and tranquility in the heart of San Diego's Balboa Park at the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Nestled in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a 12-acre oasis celebrating the bond between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture and the beauty of nature through traditional landscaping, koi ponds, and cultural exhibits.
A brief summary to Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
- 2215 Pan American E Rd, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-232-2721
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Check the JFG website for updated hours, early closures, and special events before visiting.
- San Diego residents can enjoy free admission on the third Tuesday of every month.
- Visit during the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in spring to witness the garden's cherry trees in full bloom.
- Consider purchasing the Go City San Diego pass for discounted admission to the JFG and other San Diego attractions.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Balboa Park, such as the Plaza de Panama or the Natural History Museum, the Japanese Friendship Garden is within walking distance. Head east, following signs for the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, then continue towards Pan American Road East. The garden entrance will be on your left. No additional costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Several MTS bus routes serve Balboa Park. Routes 7 and Rapid 215 stop along Park Boulevard. From these stops, walk west on Pan American Road East to reach the garden entrance. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50. Alternatively, routes 3 and 120 will drop you off on the west side of Balboa Park. From there, walk east towards the Cabrillo Bridge and then follow signs within the park.
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Driving
Enter Balboa Park via Park Boulevard. Free parking is available in several lots throughout the park, including Inspiration Point. From Inspiration Point, you can take the free Balboa Park tram to the Plaza de Panama, then walk east to the Japanese Friendship Garden. Alternatively, paid parking options may be available closer to the garden. Note that parking availability can be limited, especially during peak season and special events. **Note:** As of June 2025, the San Diego City Council approved changes that will allow the city to charge for parking at Balboa Park. While the implementation date and specific fees are not yet set, hourly parking fees may be introduced in the future.
Discover more about Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
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