Background

Discover Serenity at the Japanese Tea Garden

Experience the tranquility and beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden, a serene oasis in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park featuring stunning landscapes and traditional culture.

4.5

Nestled within the tranquil surroundings of Golden Gate Park, the Japanese Tea Garden is a cherished oasis in San Francisco, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and stunning landscapes. With its serene koi ponds, intricately designed bridges, and vibrant flora, this garden is a must-visit for any traveler seeking peace and beauty in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to Japanese Tea Garden

  • Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture the beauty of dew on the plants.
  • Don't miss the tea house; try the matcha and seasonal sweets for an authentic taste.
  • Check the garden's schedule for seasonal events or cultural performances to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you will want to explore all the winding paths and hidden nooks.
  • Bring a camera—this garden is filled with Instagram-worthy spots, especially during cherry blossom season.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Mateo, walk to the San Mateo Caltrain Station located at 2 N B St, San Mateo, CA 94401. Take the Caltrain northbound towards San Francisco. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Disembark at the 4th and King station in San Francisco. From the 4th and King station, transfer to the Muni light rail by boarding the N-Judah line towards Ocean Beach. Get off at the 'Irving St & 9th Ave' stop. Walk east on Irving St until you reach 9th Ave, then turn right and continue walking until you reach the entrance of Golden Gate Park. From there, follow signs to the Japanese Tea Garden, which is located at 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.

  • Rideshare

    If you prefer a more direct route, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open your app and set your destination to 'Japanese Tea Garden, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118'. Depending on traffic, the ride will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The driver will drop you off at the entrance of the Japanese Tea Garden.

  • Biking

    If you enjoy biking, you can rent a bike from a local bike rental shop in San Mateo. Head towards the Bay Trail and follow the path north towards San Francisco. Once you reach the city, navigate to the Golden Gate Park area. Follow the park's bike paths until you reach Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. The Japanese Tea Garden is a short walk from the bike path.

Unlock the Best of Japanese Tea Garden

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco is a picturesque retreat that captures the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics and tranquility. Established in 1894, it holds the title of the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States, making it a significant cultural landmark. Visitors are greeted by a serene landscape filled with lush greenery, flowering cherry blossoms, and winding paths that invite exploration. The garden features a stunning collection of plants, including azaleas, camellias, and bamboo, creating a vibrant mosaic of colors throughout the seasons. At the heart of the garden lies a beautiful koi pond, where colorful fish swim gracefully, reflecting the garden's serene ambiance. Visitors can stroll across charming arched bridges and admire the meticulously designed lanterns and pagodas that dot the landscape. The iconic drum bridge provides a picturesque viewpoint, perfect for capturing memorable photographs. For those looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, the tea house offers traditional tea ceremonies, allowing guests to savor the delicate flavors of Japanese tea while overlooking the tranquil surroundings. The Japanese Tea Garden also hosts seasonal events and festivals, enriching the visitor experience with cultural performances and art displays. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city or a cultural experience, the Japanese Tea Garden is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a great destination for all ages, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Popular Experiences near Japanese Tea Garden

Popular Hotels near Japanese Tea Garden

Select Currency