Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden: A Hidden Oasis
Discover a serene oasis in San Mateo: the Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden, a historic Japanese garden designed by Makoto Hagiwara, offering a glimpse into California's past.
Tucked away in a quiet San Mateo neighborhood, the Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden offers a serene escape into early 20th-century Japanese garden design. Created between 1906 and 1909 by Makoto Hagiwara, the designer of San Francisco's famed Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park, this nearly one-acre private garden showcases a harmonious blend of nature and artistry. Originally commissioned by Eugene J. de Sabla Jr., a co-founder of PG&E, the garden features a Ryoku-style teahouse, koi-filled pond, stone lanterns, and meticulously crafted landscaping. While not always open to the public, its historical significance and unique design make it a noteworthy landmark, offering a glimpse into the era when wealthy Californians embraced Japanese aesthetics, moving away from Victorian-style gardens. The garden stands as a testament to cultural exchange and the enduring beauty of Japanese garden principles adapted to the California landscape. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
A brief summary to Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden
- 70 De Sabla Rd, San Mateo, Central San Mateo, California, 94402, US
Local tips
- While the teahouse and garden are a private residence, consider viewing it respectfully from the street to appreciate its exterior and the surrounding landscape.
- Explore nearby San Mateo Central Park and its Japanese Garden for a similar, publicly accessible experience of Japanese garden design.
- Learn about Makoto Hagiwara and his influence on California landscape architecture by visiting the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown San Mateo, head south on El Camino Real. Turn left onto 2nd Avenue and walk east for approximately 0.3 miles. At the fork in the road, bear right onto De Sabla Road. Continue for about 0.2 miles. The Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden will be on your left. This walk is roughly 0.8 miles and should take about 15-20 minutes. Be mindful of pedestrian crossings along El Camino Real and 2nd Avenue.
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Public Transport
From the San Mateo Caltrain Station, walk approximately 0.1 miles north to E 2nd Ave and take Bus 250 towards 'Palo Alto Transit Center'. Disembark at the 'De Sabla Rd & 2nd Ave' stop. From there, walk north on De Sabla Road for about 0.1 miles. The Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden will be on your right at 70 De Sabla Rd. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown San Mateo or the Caltrain station, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to 70 De Sabla Rd will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. The ride is short, usually taking around 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.
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