Description
After the successful 1894 Midwinter Exposition San Francisco decided to keep the Japanese Village exhibit. Makoto Hagiwara was hired to be the new manager of the Garden and immediately set about expanding the Garden three-fold to its size today. At over three acres, it is the oldest public Japanese Garden in the United States, and it has a magnificent collection of plants and trees maintained in the Japanese style by a staff of professional gardeners.
An impressive variety of flora greets you as you enter a Japanese inspired wonderland of small scenes created throughout the Garden. The peace and quiet of the Garden encourages one to slow down and be mindful of the surroundings — beautiful botanical masterpieces. Stroll among the koi ponds and enjoy the ever-present skills of the gardeners as they present their carefully designed and shaped plant sculptures and rock arrangements representing real scenes from the outside world. Marvel at the structures of Japanese design — the tea room, gates without fasteners, and the magnificent pagoda, a relic from the 1915 World’s Fair in San Francisco. A perfect walk for those seeking a peaceful afternoon…
Please see notes for important admission information.
Next Tours
- Monday, June 15 at 9:30 am given by Ellen R.Sign Up
- Monday, June 15 at 1:00 pm given by Christine G.Sign Up
- Tuesday, June 16 at 1:00 pm given by Philip S.Sign Up
- Wednesday, June 17 at 9:30 am given by Don M.Sign Up
- Wednesday, June 17 at 1:00 pm given by Beth W.Sign Up
- Thursday, June 18 at 1:00 pm given by Eric F.Sign Up
- Friday, June 19 at 9:30 am given by Eric F.Sign Up
- Friday, June 19 at 1:00 pm given by Eric F.Sign Up
- Saturday, June 20 at 1:00 pm (No Tour Today)
- Sunday, June 21 at 1:00 pm given by Marjory K.Sign Up
Notes
Tour Length: Approximately 1 hour.
All visitors to the Japanese Tea Garden must reserve timed tickets in advance. Admission is free for San Francisco residents, Gardens of Golden Gate Park members, veterans, and additional eligible groups — see the ticketing page for the full list.
Because tickets are timed, careful planning is essential for a smooth visit.
If you are joining our 9:30 AM City Guides tour, please reserve tickets for the 9:00 AM entry.
If you are joining our 1:00 PM City Guides tour, please reserve tickets for the 12:00 PM entry.
Please note: Private group tours required for groups of 7 or more.












