Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego
DETAILS:
Location: 2215 Pan American Road East. San Diego, CA 92101 (In Balboa Park)
Hours of Operation: Daily - 10AM to 6PM (last admission at 5PM)
Parking: Parking in Balboa Park lots is free.
Cost: $12 General Admission / $10 Students, Military, Seniors / Children 6 and under are free.
Time Commitment: 1 hour.
Miscellaneous: visit their website (below under “resources”) for caladner of events and activities.
With a history dating all the way back to the late 19th century, Balboa Park transformed into the urban oasis we know it as today in order to host the 1915 Panama-California Exposition which provided much of the iconic architecture that makes the park still famous to this very day. Boasting a world-renown zoo, over a dozen museums, and 1,200 acres devoted to public recreational use, you hardly need any more incentive to visit Balboa Park which was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977.
But alas, I can provide yet another reason why your itinerary should allow for an extended romp around the grounds of Balboa Park the next time you find yourself in San Diego. While California is hardly a stranger when it comes to Japanese Gardens, the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park just might be the most impressive one of them all. And while this statement might stir much debate, what can’t be argued is that it’s certainly one of the largest, sprawling across 12 acres.
And oh, what a grand 12 acres it is! First built in 1991 as an unwavering sign of friendship with its Japanese sister-city; Yokohama (hence its name) , the multi-level garden is a serene expression of Japanese Culture interwoven with the climate and horticulture of Southern California. Replete with its obligatory koi ponds, bonsai display, and Zen statues, the Japanese Friendship Garden also contains an exhibit hall (featuring a rotating Japanese art gallery), an activity center hosting year-round events, and a 200 cherry tree grove. If you’re looking for a tranquil way to spend an afternoon in San Diego, look no further!
RESOURCES:
Japanese Friendship Garden website.
