San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden
Although the Japanese Tea Garden is always a spectacular place to visit in San Francisco, it reaches a whole new level in March and April when the cherry blossoms (Azaleas, and Wisteria) are in bloom. It is easy to spend a day wandering the paths through the garden and enjoy the feast for the senses it creates. The cherry blossoms are a beautiful light pink that creates a softness that is in stark contrast to the rich dark pinks and reds of the Azaleas.
There are cherry blossom blooms on either side of the entrance to the garden, which was constructed without nails might I add! Luckily, the cherry tree that has the bigger bloom is located on the side of the entrance opposite the entry line making it the perfect spot to take a photo. If you’re traveling solo it’s very easy to get someone to take your photo or set up a tripod if that’s more your style. My roommates and I used a tripod to take our group picture a few times in the garden. Just be respectful of people walking around and enjoy capturing the beauty of it.
The entire garden is genuinely impressive. Its well-manicured lawns, perfectly preserved paths, unique architecture, and water features all create this incredible experience. It all flows seamlessly together but somehow every section feels unique and original. I notice something new every time I visit.
I personally love the Drum Bridge which is a half-circle bridge that you can climb over. Be careful though, it’s steeper than it looks! Another incredible piece of architecture is the five-story tall red Pagoda located at the back of the garden. They recently completed its restoration and it looks better (and redder) than ever. I also really love the koi pond, especially because the path is disconnected rocks that are fun to walk across.
I have not visited the tea garden with kids, but I often have kids in mind when I’m visiting a place in case I want to bring any of my little friends with me. This is a place where I would feel comfortable and excited about bringing them. Though, I would feel a little nervous about them falling into the koi pond, so just keep a close eye there. Something of note is the garden is not fully wheelchair or stroller accessible. There are clear signs at the entrance and throughout the park noting when the trail is steep or difficult to walk on.
Being such a popular tourist stop the garden tends to get quite crowded quickly, so it is advisable to go early to enjoy the blooms with fewer people. You can purchase tickets to just the Japanese Tea Garden for $16 (Adult/Weekend) or you can get a “Gardens of Golden Gate” pass for $28 (adult) which gives you entry to the tea garden, SF Botanical Garden, and the Conservatory of Flowers. The pass is good for three consecutive days. You can get free admission to the tea garden if are a resident of SF. You have to either have an SF address on your ID or you can show a utility bill.
I have never been to the actual tea house because I never felt like waiting in line. However, the prices online do not seem too unreasonable considering the experience, and it’s not something you would do every day. Usually, after visiting the gardens, I go to Japantown to get tea, and pastries, and do a little shopping. If you haven’t been to the store Daiso, there is one in Japantown. Trust me, it’s worth the drive. If you know, you know.
I’ve been in the bay for almost 5 years and I’ve never been here. Thank you for you guidance and advice .
It’s such a nice way to spend a day, we should go this year to see the blooms!