Foster Botanical Garden

Foster Botanical Garden is a 14-acre botanical garden in central Honolulu featuring native Hawaiian plants, tropical trees, orchids, and endangered species. The site is organized into distinct sections including the Upper Terrace, Middle Terraces, Economic Garden, Prehistoric Glen, and Lyon Orchid Garden.

Queen Kalama leased the land to German botanist William Hillebrand in 1853, who established the initial garden and introduced many plants to Hawaii. This early botanical vision became the foundation for what later developed into a major plant conservation institution.

The garden displays various sculptures, including a replica of the Daibutsu of Kamakura honoring a century of Japanese immigration to Hawaii. These artworks tell stories of the diverse cultures that have shaped the islands.

Visitors can explore different garden sections throughout the year and should wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is hilly with paved walkways. Early morning is the best time to visit when it is cooler and less crowded.

The garden contains a Sacred Fig tree that is a direct cloned descendant of the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. This remarkable tree links the space to one of the world's oldest spiritual traditions.

Location: Honolulu

Location: Honolulu County

Inception: 1853

Address: 50 North Vineyard Boulevard

Email: hbg@honolulu.gov

Website: http://honolulu.gov/cms-dpr-menu/site-dpr-sitearticles/568-foster-botanical-garden.html

GPS coordinates: 21.31667,-157.85917

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55