Nitobe Memorial Garden

Nitobe Memorial Garden is a Japanese garden covering about 1 hectare (2.5 acres) at the University of British Columbia featuring traditional elements such as stone lanterns, wooden bridges, koi ponds, and an authentic tea house. The layout displays the classic structure of a Japanese garden with carefully positioned plants, stones, and water features that work together to create a unified design.

The garden was founded in 1960 to honor Dr. Inazo Nitobe, an influential educator and mediator between Japan and Western nations. Its creation resulted from collaboration between UBC President Norman Mackenzie and Japanese landscape architect Kannosuke Mori, who brought authentic Japanese design principles to the site.

The garden is named after Inazo Nitobe, a Japanese scholar and educator whose legacy is honored through the design of this space. You can observe how plants, pathways, and water features are arranged intentionally to encourage reflection and stillness.

The garden is open year-round with extended hours during warmer months and shorter hours in winter. You can access it easily from the university campus and enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds following established pathways.

The late Emperor Akihito of Japan visited the garden and noted its careful adherence to traditional Japanese design principles. His visit confirmed that this place represents one of the most authentic expressions of this design tradition outside Japan.

Location: Electoral Area A

Fee: Yes

Address: Lower Mall

Opening Hours: Sunday-Saturday 11:00-16:30; November-March: Saturday-Sunday off; November-March: Monday-Friday 11:00-14:00

Phone: +16048226038

Website: https://botanicalgarden.ubc.ca/visit/nitobe-memorial-garden

GPS coordinates: 49.26630,-123.25953

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:10