San Mateo Japanese Garden: A Tranquil Oasis
Discover serenity in the heart of San Mateo at the Japanese Garden, a peaceful retreat showcasing traditional Japanese landscape design.
Nestled within San Mateo's Central Park, the Japanese Garden offers a serene escape inspired by traditional Japanese landscape design. Designed in 1966 by Nagao Sakurai, it features a pagoda, tea house, koi pond, and meticulously arranged flora, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
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 witness the stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Attend the koi feedings during the spring and summer months for an engaging experience.
- Take your time to wander the garden's pathways and appreciate the subtle details of the landscape design.
- The garden is located within Central Park, so combine your visit with a stroll through the park's rose garden and other attractions.
Getting There
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Walking
The San Mateo Japanese Garden is located within Central Park at 50 E 5th Ave, in downtown San Mateo. From anywhere in the downtown area, follow signs for Central Park. Once inside the park, follow the marked paths to the Japanese Garden. It's a short walk from the park's main entrance.
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Public Transport
The San Mateo Transit Center is located a few blocks from Central Park. From the Transit Center, walk south on El Camino Real, then turn left onto 5th Avenue. Central Park will be on your right. The Japanese Garden is located within the park. SamTrans ECR has convenient stops near Equinox, which is close to the park. Cost: A single ride on SamTrans costs around $2 - $4.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a ride to Central Park, 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo. Most ride-share services operate in the area and can drop you off near the park entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the Japanese Garden. Cost: Ride-share costs from downtown San Mateo typically range from $8 - $15, depending on demand and distance.
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Driving
Drive to Central Park, located at 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo. Limited street parking is available around the park. Several parking garages are also located within walking distance. Note that on-site parking is not available. Cost: Street parking costs $1.00 - $1.50 per hour, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM. Parking garages charge varying rates, typically around $3 for 2 hours.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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