virtual tour japanese garden

Kyoto Gardens

A virtual stroll through Zen landscapes

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• Today’s Pic

Let your fingers do the walking …

June 1, 2024.

Exploring Kyoto Gardens in 360º

• Click on a garden name (under Gardens ) to take a virtual stroll. While holding the mouse button down, move the mouse left or right to explore the gardens through a 360º panoramic perspective (trackpad users simply need to move their finger horizontally across the track pad). When the cursor changes to a vajra-like icon, click the mouse on that icon to move to the next area of the garden. To zoom in, press the Shift key. To zoom out, press the Command key on the Macintosh and the Control key on Windows & Linux.

• At the bottom of the display, an icon palette allows for easy navigation, including 360º auto-rotation or to display information on a particular garden location.

• To see a map of Kyoto and a garden’s location, click on the Temple Location link (under Map ).

• To view a slide show of garden pictures, click the Kyoto Gardens Album link (under Photo Library ).

• To read one of the six research articles, click on an article title (under Research Library ).

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Books & Things

• Temple Location

Photo Library

• Kyoto Gardens Album

Research Library

• In a Japanese Garden
• Japanese Garden Design
• Spirit of Zen
• Tea Masters
• Ten ox-herding pictures
• Zen in Buddhist History

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Three iconic gardens. One incredible summer. Join us.

Three iconic gardens. One incredible summer. Join us: Donate or Become a Member

Japanese Tea Garden

Welcome to the oldest operating public Japanese Garden in North America. Natural beauty and tranquility greet you amongst graceful Japanese maples, twisting pines, clipped azaleas, and cherry trees.

Today’s Hours

Open 9am – 6pm Last entry today is 5:30pm

• What’s in bloom

Cast in 1790 in Japan, the Buddha, named Amazarashi-No-Hotoke, was donated by Richard Gump.

Dry Landscape Garden

Also known as a Zen Garden, this garden was designed by Nagao Sakurai in 1953 to represent hills, mountains and running water.

The lovingly restored pagoda was originally built for the 1915 Panama- Pacific International Expo, and designed to represent a Buddhist’s “treasure tower.”

Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Azaeleas bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Wisteria bloom throughout the garden in April and May.

Visit the Tea House to enjoy a meditative cup of tea and popular Japanese refreshments at a custom-designed “irori” or farmhouse-style family table. The Tea House is located at the site of the original teahouse built for the Mid-Winter Exposition of 1894, nestled in the center of The Japanese Tea Garden overlooking the picturesque south-facing pond.

Walking tours

Enjoy a 60 minute walking tour of the Japanese Tea Garden led by San Francisco City Guides. Explore one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco and learn about classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden. Cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the garden in March and April.

Purchase authentic Japanese items including tea and sake sets, glazed ceramic bowls and vases, kokeshi and daruma dolls, a variety of green teas, maneki neko figurines, and children’s collectibles. Like the Tea House, the Gift Shop possesses distinctively Japanese style in its architecture and interior design. The Gift Shop is located above the Tea House on the Terrace level in a two-story house that was part of the “Japanese Village” built for the 1894 Exposition and was rebuilt in 1959.

Become a member

Enjoy members-only perks and unlimited access to the Gardens, all while supporting our mission.

Award-winning Restoration of Japanese Tea Garden’s Pagoda

Ginkgo ‘Survivor Trees’ at the Japanese Tea Garden

Refreshments and Treats at the Tea House

Japanese Tea Garden Pagoda Landscape Renovation Project

Since the creation of Golden Gate Park in 1870, each garden has enjoyed a rich and varied history. Dig deeper into how the Gardens of Golden Gate Park have evolved through the years.

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Take a Virtual Tour Through This Famous Japanese Garden in Oregon

Portland is home to an incredible garden that was planted to heal wounds and bring two cultures closer together. While some locals at first resisted the planting of the garden in 1963, the Japanese Garden has become an Oregon gem and a Portland treasure and is much loved by all.

As mentioned on their official website, in keeping with health officials’ recommendations to stay home and prevent further spread of COVID-19, Portland Japanese Garden is closed until the spread of this social health threat has adequately slowed down.

A Virtual Tour Of The Portland Japanese Garden

The video below gives an excellent look into the history of Portland's Japanese Garden as well as the garden's beauty and lovely variety of plants, shapes, and cultural heritage.

When you walk through the garden you have a sense of peace and tranquility, and will be in awe of the garden's natural beauty.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Miakoda’s Mood Board (@miakodamoodboard) on Mar 27, 2020 at 6:53am PDT

Some prefer to visit the garden in spring when everything is in bloom, while others flock to the garden in fall for the garden's vibrant changing colors. Summer is also a lovely time to visit when the trees have all filled out.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Scott Bryant (@scobryant) on Apr 10, 2020 at 5:16pm PDT

Take a look at some of these photos of the garden:

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Stacey✭Williams (@yecatsiswhere) on Apr 11, 2020 at 8:10pm PDT

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by rel 🧿 (@relbrender) on Apr 11, 2020 at 7:15am PDT

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Photography for Home Decor (@brenphoto_printshop) on Apr 15, 2020 at 5:32pm PDT

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tess Carver (@tesscarver) on Apr 15, 2020 at 10:14am PDT

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nicole Musci (@nicole.musci) on Apr 14, 2020 at 1:44pm PDT

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Photography (@photosmasters) on Apr 13, 2020 at 4:09pm PDT

Have you been to the Japanese Garden in Portland? Tag the friends you want to go with!

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Japan Virtual Tours & Experiences

Book a virtual tour or online experience in japan.

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Zoom- Private live virtual experience in Tokyo

You can enjoy seeing the real time viewing via zoom while hearing interesting story, useful information, meanings of each spot from a professional guide. the guide visits popular spots in asakusa or in akihabara. i've done live zoom tour many times for individual customers and as a company’s event including through other sites since 2020. let's join this popular virtual experience by your self, with your family and friends.

Delightful History Walk in Samurai Town

This tour is the best for a company recreation event, and you learn something new together. It's a virtual walking of the beautiful city Kamakura with a friendly local guide. We enjoy a history and town walk. It's relaxed, knowledgeable, and fun! I have experience in hosting groups of up to 110 people. I'm flexible for tour date/time and the number of guests. I am waiting for your contact.

Online Tour! - Grasping Okinawa's Charms

An hour online tour consists of a presentation of okinawa's basic information, an online tour of must-see spots including the world heritage sites, and a q&a session..

Your First Origami Online Workshop

Touch a tip of japanese culture prior to your tour picking this online experience of origami up. it is an art and a joy of paper folding which can be enjoyed by everybody interested in this oriental culture. just with one hour workshop, you will be able to create your own origami works such as a great samurai helmet, a pretty butterfly, a joyful jumping frog, a paper container for candies, and a traditional japanese crane (orizuru) from square sheets of paper..

Online Talk about Japanese Tea

I’ve enjoyed offering a tea tour here in shizuoka, japan’s no.1 tea producer. now, under the situation of covid19, i’d like to suggest an online opportunity for tea lovers across the world as a japanese tea instructor, i can share the information on tea including types of tea, production, process, health benefits, how to enjoy it and the like. i hope this will be a help for you to know more about japanese tea. you can gain further understanding and enjoy it more in your future visit.

Online Introduction to Sake World

Sake, or nihon-shu, is the most representative alcoholic beverage in japan. sake may be available at your place, but i'm afraid that some of them are different from real sake, or you have taken sake only at a sushi restaurant. i offer this online introduction to the sake world with a private lesson via zoom meeting system for you to get a basic understanding of sake before your tour to japan..

Hidden Zen Garden (Autumn Edition)

Experience the power of nature and art while you virtually travel to japan and immerse yourself in the mystical zen gardens of konchi-in and tenju-an. led by an american japanese garden specialist who has worked in the gardens of kyoto, you will virtually stroll the gardens and hear deep insights into your surroundings that will allow you to appreciate the japanese garden for much more than it's physical beauty..

Virtual Hakone and its magnificent views of Mt. Fuji

Discover and enjoy a virtual tour of hakone and its magnificent views of mt. fuji. the tour will introduce you to the mountains, valleys, lakes, and the unique terrain of hakone, known as the "great hell." this tour is a great way to learn about one of the most popular tourist destinations in japan: hakone, from the comfort of your own home. the tour will introduce you to hakone's history, locals, history, specialties, crafts, and sweet treats..

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“ Very knowledgeable, friendly and a joy to work with! ”

I count my lucky stars that my paths crossed with Tomoko. If I only had one word to describe working with her - I couldn’t do it. What I enjoyed the most is that she takes the time to listen and ask questions. She personalizes everything to my liking and does not take a “cookie-cutter” approach. Thank you Tomoko! You are the best guide!

Thank you for such a great review, David. It’s more than what I did, but I feel so happy that you and your wife enjoyed the time. I just did what I would want to be done for myself as a travel lover like you! The current regulations are complicated and overloading, but I sincerely hope you’ll find the way to get through them and enjoy wonderful time in Japan. - Tomoko

Check out Kamakura !! Live Zoom Tour with Video

“ Excellent guide ”

Yuki is an excellent Zoom online guide. He is knowledgeable about Kamakura and very keen to guide me. I strongly recommend him to you.

Dear Masato, Thank you for taking time to write such a good review of my tour. I hope my tour would be useful for making your own online tour. Best regards, Yuki

“ Great visit of Akihabara ”

Masa is a great guide, he has a lot of knowledge about Japan and I had a great time with him

Hi Antoine! Yes, we had a good walking and talking like locals. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it. Thank you.

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Take on Japan’s sites and sounds from the comfort of your screen with a local tour guide that transforms cities & towns into an accessible virtual tour.

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Set across Japan, our interactive, immersive virtual tours take you through the cultural, historical and social aspects of deeply impactful elements of Japanese heritage, from tea ceremonies and customs, to the delicate art of origami.

9 Breathtaking Japanese Gardens You Need to Visit

Japan, a country synonymous with timeless beauty and serenity, is renowned for its traditional Japanese gardens. These gardens, each a unique masterpiece of Japanese landscaping, offer an exquisite blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and aesthetic sophistication. They’re not just gardens; they’re an integral part of the Japanese lifestyle, a place for contemplation and appreciation of nature’s fleeting beauty.

In this blog post, we take you on a virtual journey through eight of the most breathtaking Japanese gardens that you absolutely must visit. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a nature enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking tranquility, these gardens will inspire and beckon you to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Table of Contents

1. Kenroku-en: A Gem Among the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Kenroku-en Garden, a prime example of Japanese landscape gardening at its finest, is located in the historical city of Kanazawa. The garden’s name translates to “Garden of the Six Sublimities,” referring to the six attributes considered crucial for a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water sources, and panoramas.

Among Kenroku-en’s standout features is the Kotoji-toro, a two-legged stone lantern situated beside a scenic pond. Furthermore, the garden takes pride in housing Japan’s oldest fountain, which relies solely on natural water pressure. Additionally, the garden is home to the Karasaki Pine, a tree grown from a seed sourced from the Karasaki district by the garden’s creator.

Address: 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 〒920-0936, Japan Hours: Mar. 1 – Oct.15 (7:00 – 18:00) / Oct.16 – Feb.28/29 (8:00 – 17:00 ) Early Admission Hours: 4:00 (Apr – Aug) / 5:00 (Mar, Sept- Oct) / 6:00 (Nov – Feb) Only Renchi-mon Entrance and Zuishinzaka Entrance are open. You must leave 15 minutes before the opening time. More Information: Official Website

2. Kinkaku-ji: The Sparkling Jewel of Kyoto’s Japanese Gardens

The Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, stands as a must-visit Kyoto landmark and a symbol of the city’s lasting cultural heritage. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu originally built it in 1397 as a retirement villa, and it later transformed into a Zen temple after his death. Gold leaf adorns the top two floors of the pavilion, casting a dazzling effect that has entranced visitors for centuries.

Accompanying the pavilion is a garden from the Muromachi period. This garden, complete with a large pond, multiple islands, and stone bridges, embraces the natural landscape. As you navigate through the garden, the Golden Pavilion appears to float above the water’s surface, offering ever-changing views that enrich your exploration.

Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 〒603-8361, Japan Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (open all year round) More Information: Official Website

Read More： Top 10 Must-Visit Temples in Kyoto

3. Ritsurin Garden: The Quintessential Garden, Outshining Even the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Situated in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Ritsurin Garden is a sprawling landscape garden that was originally built for the enjoyment of the local daimyo, or feudal lord. It took over a century to complete the garden, and its meticulous design is a testament to the skill and dedication of its creators.

The garden is characterized by its multiple ponds, teahouses, and the famous Nanko, or South Pond, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, Ritsurin Garden is also famous for its pine trees, which are carefully pruned and shaped to create a sense of depth and balance.

Address: 1-chome-20-16 Ritsurincho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 〒760-0073, Japan Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Special hours of operation: 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (July 8th 2023) (Entrance to the park will be limited from 5:30 a.m. to noon.) More Information: Official Website

4. Koraku-en: Experience Tranquility in One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens

Okayama’s Koraku-en Garden, one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan,” offers an elegant and expansive design. The local daimyo originally built it for relaxation and entertainment. Its broad lawns and thoughtfully planned vistas compose a calming and harmonious atmosphere.

Among the garden’s highlights is the Enyo-tei House, a traditional building that provides panoramic views of the garden and distant Okayama Castle. Additionally, the garden features a picturesque pond, a cozy teahouse, and a plum grove that bursts into vibrant pinks and whites each spring.

Address: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama, 703-8257, Japan Hours: March 20 to September 30 7:30 – 18:00 (last admission 17:45) October 1 to March 19 8:00 – 17:00 (last admission 16:45) More Information: Official Website

5. Tenryuji Temple: A UNESCO Heritage Site Enriching Japanese Gardens

Located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important Zen temple. The temple’s garden, designed by the famous landscape architect Muso Soseki, is a masterpiece of Zen garden design that has been meticulously maintained over the centuries.

The Sogen Pond at the center of the garden is surrounded by carefully arranged rocks, trees, and moss-covered banks, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. A path around the pond allows visitors to enjoy the changing views of the garden and the stunning backdrop of the Arashiyama mountains.

Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, ６８ Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm (Last admission 4:50p.m.) More Information: Official Website

6. Adachi Museum of Art: Blending Japanese Art and Garden Design

Situated in Shimane Prefecture, the Adachi Museum of Art is not only renowned for its collection of modern Japanese art but also for its award-winning garden. The museum’s founder, Zenko Adachi, believed that “the garden is also a picture,” and the meticulously maintained grounds perfectly embody this philosophy.

The garden showcases a variety of landscape styles, including a dry landscape garden, a white gravel and pine garden, and a pond garden. Each window of the museum acts as a frame, offering visitors a unique and ever-changing view of the garden as they move through the building.

Address: 320 Furukawacho, Yasugi, Shimane 〒692-0064, Japan Hours: 9:00-17:30 (Apr-Sept) / 9:00-17:00 (Oct-Mar) More Information: Official Website

7. Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A Tea Retreat Transformed into a Japanese Garden Oasis

Suizen-ji Joju-en Garden, situated in Kumamoto, began as a tea retreat for the local daimyo, Hosokawa Tadaoki. It encircles a spring-fed pond, adorned with carefully curated elements like stone lanterns, bridges, and a symbolic hill representing Mount Fuji.

Visitors can meander through the garden’s winding paths, leading to several teahouses and shrines. The lush greenery, rolling hills, and peaceful pond transform Suizen-ji Joju-en into a tranquil city oasis, inviting exploration and enjoyment.

Address: 8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 〒862-0956, Japan Hours: 8:30-17:00 More Information: Official Website

8. Isuien Garden: A Hidden Gem in Nara’s Array of Japanese Gardens

In Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, lies the Isuien Garden. This strolling garden, a true masterpiece of Japanese landscaping, is divided into two parts, each featuring a central pond and several teahouses. The borrowed scenery technique, or “shakkei,” is employed here, with the nearby Todai-ji Temple and Mount Wakakusa seamlessly incorporated into the garden’s design.

A central pond, fed by the adjacent Yoshikigawa River, forms a key part of the garden. It nestles among carefully situated rocks and trees. Plus, several teahouses and pavilions like Seishuan and Sanshutei offer prime spots to soak in the garden’s beauty.

Address: 74 Suimoncho, Nara, 〒630-8208, Japan Hours: 9:30-16:30 (last admission 16:00) More Information: Official Website

9. Kairaku-en: A Must-Visit Among the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Kairaku-en, standing among the Three Great Gardens of Japan, is an absolute must-visit. Situated in the heart of Mito, this expansive garden beautifully captures the essence of traditional Japanese landscape design. Its rich history, dating back to 1841, and the natural beauty it encapsulates offer an enriching experience to every visitor.

The garden was established by the local lord Nariaki Tokugawa, with the name ‘Kairaku-en’ meaning ‘garden for the enjoyment of all.’ This concept was unique for its time, as most gardens were solely for the pleasure of feudal lords. The democratic spirit of Kairaku-en is one of its defining features, making it an interesting piece of Japan’s historical landscape.

Perhaps the most iconic feature of Kairaku-en is its stunning plum tree grove. Home to approximately 3,000 trees spanning a hundred different species, this grove transforms into a vibrant spectacle each spring when the trees bloom in a myriad of colors.

Beyond the plum trees, Kairaku-en also houses a serene bamboo grove and a tranquil cedar woods. Adding to the garden’s charm is the Kobuntei, a traditional Japanese building. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the entire garden and the nearby Lake Senba.

A visit to Kairaku-en is not just a walk through a garden; it’s a journey into Japan’s cultural heritage, where every step brings you closer to understanding the timeless elegance of Japanese landscaping.

Address: 1 Chome-1251 Migawa, Mito, Ibaraki, 〒310-0912, Japan Hours: 9:30-16:30 (last admission 16:00) More Information: Official Website

By incorporating elements such as water, rocks, trees, and moss, each Japanese garden tells a unique story of nature and tranquility. These traditional Japanese gardens are a testament to the country’s long-standing love for and dedication to the art of gardening. They are a product of centuries of refined skills, cultural aesthetics, and an appreciation for the simple, humble beauty of nature.

Visiting a Japanese garden is not just about experiencing the beauty of Japanese landscaping; it’s about embracing the tranquility, the silence, and the stillness that permeate these spaces. It’s about understanding the Japanese concept of “ma” – the beauty of space, of pause, of the moments in between. This is what sets Japanese gardens apart.

From the majestic Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji to the serene Zen garden of Tenryu-ji, from the picturesque landscapes of Ritsurin Garden to the symbolic journey through Suizenji Jojuen Garden, these stunning Japanese gardens are sure to leave you in awe.

As we wrap up this virtual tour, we hope you’ve been inspired by the beauty of these Japanese gardens. Perhaps you’ll incorporate elements of Japanese landscaping into your own garden, or maybe you’ll plan a trip to Japan to experience these serene landscapes firsthand.

Whichever path you choose, remember that each Japanese garden is a journey into tranquility, an invitation to step back, slow down, and appreciate the beauty of nature, the passage of time, and the delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication. That’s the true essence of a traditional Japanese garden.

Three Days in Nara: Discovering Six Ancient Temples – Ultimate Travel Guide

“the swimming pool” at kanazawa’s 21st century museum: a journey into visual illusion, arima onsen – kobe: a timeless retreat in japan’s hot spring towns, the ultimate kurashiki travel guide: explore, eat, shop, and stay, guide to okayama city: exploring japan’s land of sunshine, takamatsu airport and city: a comprehensive travel guide, leave a reply cancel reply.

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GARDEN VIRTUAL TOUR

Ume grove virtual tour, clark bonsai collection virtual tour, planning for your visit.

GARDEN HOURS:

OPEN: Wed-Sun/Holidays 10am – 7pm (April 1 – September 30)

OPEN: Wed – Sun/Holidays 10am – 5pm (October 1 – March 31)

CLOSED: Mon – Tues

GARDEN CLARK BONSAI HOURS:

The CLARK BONSAI COLLECTION is located inside the Shinzen Garden.

Wednesday through Friday: 10am-1pm Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 10am – 4pm* *Weather, Air Quality & Docent Permitting

GENERAL ADMISION*:

Under 4yrs: Free 4 – 14yrs: $1/ea. 15yrs – Adult : $5/ea. Seniors 62+: $1/ea. Students: $1/ea. Family: $7 (2-5 people)

GARDEN TOURS*:

We offer self-guided, docent-led school or private group tours. Tours groups need to be at least 10 guests. Take a VIRTUAL TOUR of the SHINZEN GARDEN HERE . Also, see the VIRTUAL TOUR of the UME GROVE HERE .

For booking tours go HERE.

*Our docent-led tours must be booked at least 10 days in advance of the requested tour date. Contact us at [email protected] or 559-478-4848 for questions. 

Typically, there is no food/drink (except bottled water) allowed in the Garden. If you are planning something unique inside the garden, contact us. We are not able to accommodate birthday, baby shower, or other events that have food.

No pets, except service animals, are allowed in the garden.

Home » Portland Japanese Garden

Located in Portland, Oregon

Portland japanese garden, the portland japanese garden was inspired in the 1950s to make amends with japan and provide a beautiful garden for those in portland. soon japanese gardens began to spread over the country as a cultural understanding. the garden opened in 1967 to the public costing a mere $0.50. this particular garden is known to be one of the most authentic in the world..

© 2024 360 Tripp Virtual Tours.

Stroll through the Japanese Garden in Bloom (Video)

Enjoy a virtual walk through the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden—complete with cherry blossoms—in this extraordinary video captured by cinematographer Nic Petry of Dancing Camera .

Immerse yourself in this 18-minute journey at full screen with sound.

The historic garden is one of the oldest extant Japanese gardens in the United States, and its collection of cherry cultivars was in lovely bloom during filming. Petry, a specialist in moving camera techniques, conceived the piece as a way to recreate the meditative experience of walking through the garden on a glorious, early spring day.

The garden’s weeping Higan cherries can be seen swaying in the wind along the pond as the camera moves around the path lined with several varieties of camellias, artfully pruned pine trees, and fiddlehead ferns.

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Comments will be posted after review; your email address will not be displayed. Have a gardening question for BBG staff? Reach out to our Gardener's Help Line.

Hakone Estate and Gardens

Saratoga, california.

Experience Hakone

21000 Big Basin Way

Saratoga, CA 95070

408-741-4994

[email protected]

See Visitor Info for hours and fees.

News and Updates

Now available! Purchase tickets for Lantern Floating Ceremony . (No walk-in tickets will be available)

Starting on June 12th, we will have members-only admission to the gardens from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm on the 2nd Wednesday of every month through October.

Last month for the current CEC exhibition! Traditional Japanese Carpentry: Tools and Techniques. Find out more .

Currently Blooming

​ U pdated on May  29 , 2024 ​

We will update the list of flowers soon. Meanwhile, please enjoy the beginning of summer.

Photography at Hakone

Hakone is beautiful in every season and photography for personal use is encouraged. However, a photography permit is required if you plan to use the gardens as a backdrop for your photo shoot. See Visitor Info  or email the events office for more information.

About Hakone Estate and Gardens

One of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s premier sites and 100 years old, Hakone is one of the old Japanese estate, retreat and gardens in the Western Hemisphere.  Hakone has also been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2013. 18 acres of magnificent beauty is nestled in the verdant hills of Saratoga overlooking Silicon Valley.

Open Hakone's History to read more about us.

Support Hakone Estate and Gardens

Your donation supports our operation and garden improvements. Visit Donate to Hakone for how you can help us.

B ecoming a member is another way to help us. You receive discounts at the Hakone Gift Shop and some other benefits. See Membership  for more information.

Or you can simply subscribe to Hakone newsletters to receive updates from us.

Thanks for submitting!

Japanese Friendship Garden

Review Highlights

“ Before 2009, it was such a great garden, tons of koi fishes and water running from one pond into another. ” in 77 reviews

“ It's part of Kelley park but maybe it has a separate funding so they put more work into garden. ” in 21 reviews

“ Serene and peaceful ; made the weekend extra special by meandering here! ” in 6 reviews

Show more review highlights

Location & Hours

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1300 Senter Rd

San Jose, CA 95106

East San Jose

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Holly S. said "Went here on a Sunday with my husband and his grandparents. I was a little worried we wouldn't get as much out of this as a younger child might, but we all loved it! I will caveat by saying it's not cheap. We could get two senior…" read more

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6.7 miles away from Japanese Friendship Garden

Kimberly L. said "There are only 5 Stars on this rating? I would give Team Building ROI a perfect 10 if I could. I only had a week to figure out a team building activity for a client group of 22 people. We had a beautiful setting for our meeting, we…" read more

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Do you allow wedding photo shoots here and is there a fee?

According to the city website, photo permits are required for all commercial photo shoots. This includes professional wedding photographers. You will find details here:… more

Are you allowed to have a picnic here?

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384 reviews

This is cute spot but it's a very short walk. Luckily there is a surrounding park to get some steps in.

Koi fish Pond

This japanese garden has definitely seen better days. The diverse trees, concrete pathways, sculptures and benches hidden within the greenery are still lovely, but there are no ponds or fish to add to the peaceful environment, and the entire place is dried up as of June 2024. In 2017, the teahouse and koi pond pumps were flooded and damaged by the Coyote Creek. And though the teahouse was repaired in 2022, the rest of it has not yet been restored, a complicated and dragged out process which has resulted in the current state. It's not as pretty without the water features, and certain elements like the boarded up bridges and dry and deserted look make it hard to ignore its potential and what it was before. But luckily the plant life keeps it beautiful. I try to take it as it is and simply appreciate the unwavering appeal of this charming parklike setting, its engaging design, natural beauty, and history. Hopefully if and when they do get it fixed, it will be worth the wait. By the way, the japanese garden is free to visit, though parking costs a fee.

See all photos from Annabelle R. for Japanese Friendship Garden

This looks like it used to be a lovely garden but now it's quite sad. Overgrown with weeds, the ponds are empty, and the bridge is blocked off. The well was covered in caution tape. It was still a nice outdoor space to walk around but definitely lower your expectations of a traditional Japanese garden.

I've gone a few times since COVID and the fish are no longer in the pond, they were removed. I just checked the website and it is undergoing a fundraiser for the pond restoration. There is no signage to reflect this in the parking lot, so you don't find out until after paying the $6, walking in to an empty pond and walking back to be your car. Just a heads up so you don't waste your money or time. When the historic park is open, it is nice and worth the walk.

Well, right now there's no water, and the water is the centerpiece of the thing. The bathrooms are closed unless there's an event. And the redwood grove next door is closed off. Deeply unimpressed.

Gayle and I recently visited the Japanese Friendship Garden with her Son and his Wife. We spent our most of our time walking and talking, while various life events were happening as we passed by. There's lots of room, pretty greenery, calm surroundings, and a great place to hang out and watch the Koi fish swim by.

Saw an IG post about this place and decided to bring my kids. I should have definitely checked yelp before making the drive. This place was depressing and nothing like it was portrayed on the IG post. The main pond was completely empty and the koi were at a separate small pond that was extremely murky and just sad. Super let down and we left feeling bad for the condition the have the fish in. Wouldn't recommend. The hayward japanese garden is a way better option.

Path to garden

Quick take: pretty big Japanese garden I grew up visiting this garden. Haven't been back in many, many years. The big ponds are currently completely drained. All of the koi fish are being kept in a small upper pond. Not sure how long it will be before all the koi are released back into the large ponds. Decided to stop by since I was in the area. This park still looks big as an adult. I've visited many Japanese Friendship Gardens and this one is larger in scale. A lot of areas are caution taped or boarded off. I'll try visited I the summer to see if everything will be restored. The park and pay station wasn't working properly either. No instructions or contact phone number posted to report issues.

See all photos from Nancy C. for Japanese Friendship Garden

We had a wonderful time with family at the Japanese Friendship Garden this weekend. It connects to Kelley Park and the zoo, which is all wonderful to walk through. Great place to take a walk after lunch at Vietnam Town.

Stopped by on a weekday afternoon for a walk. I have to say it's been years since I've been to this garden -- I honestly forgot how peaceful and serene it is. Sadly, much of the water in the man made ponds have dried up. I'm going to say it's not because of the drought but rather a renovation taking place (it seemed construction was underway). The visit was short -- maybe 20 minutes tops but it was a refreshing way to get some fresh air during the chaotic start to my year. Koi fishes are still there so bring quarters if you want to feed them -- they will appreciate it! Also, parking is a flat rate of $6 which you will pay at the kiosk upon arrival into the private lot.

See all photos from Sonya E. for Japanese Friendship Garden

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Japan Virtual Travel: Enjoy Japan while stuck at home

Japan Virtual Travel: Enjoy Japan while stuck at home

June 15, 2022

If you’ve had to postpone your next trip to Japan due to the coronavirus pandemic and are stuck at home during your vacations, rest assured that you can still enjoy virtual travel to Japan without stepping outside.

Using a range of virtual resources, you can now get plenty of travel ideas and experience some of Japan’s most exciting attractions online , which can help you plan your trip and decide what you want to see in person.

360-degree virtual tour of Japan

If you’re sad about missing out on a potential tour of the country in person in 2021, take comfort in the fact that you can still visit Japan from home using a 360-degree virtual tour set up by the Japan National Tourism Organization.

Called ‘Japan: Where Tradition Meets the Future’, the virtual viewing experience takes in a range of popular tourist attractions such as the Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto , Kagawa’s Angel Road, and the Nara Deer Park. It can be accessed using YouTube from any mobile device, or by using VR goggles for maximum immersion.

Additionally, it’s also possible to experience the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto and walk through the famous 1,000 Torii gates through a virtual walkthrough on Google street view.

Shibuya Crossing live cam

The filming location for internationally popular films such as Lost in Translation and Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift , the world-famous Shibuya Crossing traffic intersection in Tokyo’s district of the same name is often compared to the bustling Times Square in New York.

And you no longer need to visit Japan’s capital to experience the awe-inspiring waves of foot traffic every time the lights turn green, or the flashy neon advertisements of Shibuya Crossing , as a live webcam stream is now available online .

Virtual Cherry Blossom viewing

One of the most popular seasonal activities in Japan during the spring is the act of hanami , or the viewing of flowering cherry blossoms.

While you may not be able to experience the vivid pink sakura flowers in person this year, the Japanese Weather News site has uploaded 360-degree virtual tours of several of the most popular viewing locations online, including:

• Ueno Onshi Park
• Chidorigafuchi Green Road
• Along the Meguro River
• Takato Castle Park
• Osaka Castle Park
• Hirosaki Park
• Miharu Takizakura
• Showa Kinen Park
• Sumida Park

The videos available provide an immersive experience for virtual visitors and even include nighttime cherry blossom viewing options.

You can also view the cherry blossom in Tokyo’s Chidorigafuchi Park, west of the Imperial Palace, through a live feed available on YouTube.

Tokyo National Museum of Nature and Science online

The Japanese National Museum of Nature and Science located in Tokyo’s Ueno district has made its very own extensive VR tour available on its site which provides guided visits around 2 different areas of the space.

These include the 4-storey Japanese Pavilion which explores the country’s wildlife and contains a large collection of dinosaur fossils from Japan, as well as a tour of the 11-storey Global Pavilion , which begins in a room full of exotic taxidermied animals.

One of the unique features of this museums’ virtual experience is that the angle of the cameras is set up to mimic a child’s eye view , making it easy for even the youngest visitors to read the exhibition descriptions and enjoy the full experience.

Tokyo National Museum virtual tour

There is now a wide range of other virtual tours of Japanese museums available online, including the unique Tottori Sand Museum and its intricate sand sculptures, and the chance to interact with a variety of interactive exhibits courtesy of Miraikan, also known as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.

However, one of the most extensive online collections in Japan comes courtesy of the Tokyo National Museum, which has made much of its over 100,000 pieces of art available through a virtual tour, which includes a walk-through of the famous Horyuji Treasures Gallery.

Maki-do Cave virtual tour

An attraction off the beaten path that you may not otherwise get around to visiting while in Japan, the Maki-do caves are located in Nimi, Okayama Prefecture and stretch back 450 meters into limestone rock.

Also known as the ‘Dream Palace’, you can now visit the caves’ illuminated underground lake and dramatic stalactites from the comfort of your own home with an online 3D guide.

Hiroshima’s Shukkei-en Garden online panoramic

Opened to the public in 1940, Shukkei-en is a historic garden located in Hiroshima adjacent to the Prefectural Art Museum . Although it suffered damage during the nuclear attack on the city in 1945, it was reopened in 1951 after a complete renovation.

Shukkei-en roughly translates to ‘miniature scenery’ in English, which is apt because the gardens represent scaled-down versions of Japan’s forests, mountains, and valleys . It’s now possible to follow the path around the extensive gardens and its central lake online.

Shinkansen live cam

If you want to get an idea of the lightning-fast speed of the Shinkansen bullet trains before you use the services for yourself, you can now do so by accessing a live cam located railside in Settsu-city, Osaka .

Focused on the Taikai Depot, spectators have an up-close view of the Main Line on which the Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen operate ,either in the direction of Kyoto, Nagoya and Tokyo, or to Shin-Osaka and Hakata, and you can also occasionally spot the rare Shinkansen maintenance vehicles which run at night.

You can also view an up-close look at the interior of a Shinkansen First Class cabin on Google street view, to get an idea of the high level of comfort you can expect to experience when traveling on these trains throughout Japan.

Tokyo Tower online tour

One of the most iconic attractions in Japan’s capital, the Tokyo Tower attracts around 2 million annual visitors , who flock to the top of the structure for the spectacular views of the surrounding city.

And thanks to the Google Streetview, you can now sidestep COVID-19 restrictions and take a virtual tour of the inside of the Tower and enjoy the city skyline for yourself without having to leave your sofa.

Mount Fuji on Google Streetview

Without a doubt Japan’s most iconic natural attraction, Mount Fuji welcomes thousands of visitors each year , many of whom scale its conical summit during the traditional climbing season from July to mid-September.

Although the climbing season for Mt. Fuji was cancelled during the COVID-19 pandemic, hiking enthusiasts have still been able to virtually explore its slopes through the Google Street View platform and experience a stunning sunset on its summit without having to put on their mountain boots.

Additionally, you can also take in vistas of Mount Fuji through the following live view .

Cover photo: Sunset photo of Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji – Photo by Giuseppe Milo under CC

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