Brightly blossoming cherry trees, a traditional tea house overlooking Koi ponds, dramatic arched drum bridges and much more make San Francisco's Japanese Tea Gardens one of the top attractions of Golden Gate Park. The 5 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds were built in 1895 and are the oldest public Japanese gardens in the entire country. Anyone who wants to get an authentic taste of old world Japan without crossing the Pacific will not find a better chance than here at the Japanese Tea Gardens.
Parking and transportation at the Japanese Tea Gardens
Public parking is available right across the street from the Japanese Tea Gardens, but it is hourly and racks up fast. It is much easier to catch the N Judah Muni Metro streetcar from any station on Market Street and get off at 9th and Judah, just a block from the entrance to Golden Gate Park.
Best and worst times to go to the Japanese Tea Gardens
The gardens are gorgeous and well worth the visit year round, but they are particularly spectacular during the months of March and April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Summer time is high tourist season, and the gardens are a very popular attraction in San Francisco, meaning long lines and tons of visitors flooding the otherwise tranquil setting can sometimes be an issue.
Admission to the Japanese Tea Gardens
Entrance to the Japanese Tea Garden runs from $6 to $8, with significant discounts for youth, senior citizens and San Francisco residents. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, you can get in free if you arrive before 10 a.m.
Must see/do at the Japanese Tea Gardens
Slowly exploring the stone paths that lead through the zen garden, over the moon bridge and past the Japanese pagoda are one of the most enchanting ways to spend the better part of a day in San Francisco. Afterwards, a hot pot of sencha with some almond and sesame tea house cookies or a slice of green tea cheesecake is the perfect way to reinvigorate. Before leaving, a stop at the upstairs gift shop provides an opportunity to pick up ceramic tea or sake sets, high quality teas and other traditional Japanese products.
Other places to visit near the Japanese Tea Gardens
The Japanese Tea Gardens are located right next to the de Young Museum, which houses a world class collection of art from all over the world and a viewing deck in its observation tower that provides sweeping views of Golden Gate Park from above the treeline. Nature lovers will want to check out the San Francisco Botanical Gardens, located just a two minute walk away.
Insider tip for visiting the Japanese Tea Garden
The garden occasionally hosts traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, which are put on in conjunction with San Francisco's Asian Art Museum. These are an excellent chance to learn about this ancient tradition and sample some high caliber teas in a beautiful setting.
Authors Bio: Ocean Malandra was born and raised in San Francisco. He is a widely published travel writer and journalist that can be followed at @OceanMalandra.