Japanese Friendship Garden

Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park is a multi-level garden space featuring stone arrangements, bridges, and ponds filled with koi fish. The different levels offer changing views of the carefully designed landscape and its natural components.

The garden opened in 1991 as a symbol of partnership between San Diego and its sister city Yokohama. Over time, the original small space grew into the larger garden area that exists today.

The garden demonstrates traditional Japanese design principles where rocks, plants, and water features are arranged according to time-honored methods. Visitors can see how each element works together to create a sense of balance and harmony.

The garden is open daily and accessible through an entrance located within the Balboa Park grounds. Plan to spend time walking through the multiple levels at your own pace to fully experience the space.

The grounds offer classes in Japanese gardening techniques where visitors can learn traditional methods. These educational programs help explain the craftsmanship behind each element in the space.

Part of: Balboa Park Gardens

GPS coordinates: 32.72960,-117.14940

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:24