Things to Do at Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden occupies 6.5 acres in Kelley Park, where carefully composed landscapes of stone, water, and plants create a serene environment for meditation and cultural appreciation. Built in 1965 to honor San Jose's sister city relationship with Okayama, Japan, the garden features traditional elements including a moon bridge, tea house, and koi ponds where large fish surface to investigate visitors leaning over the wooden railings. Walking the gravel paths, you can hear water trickling over stone waterfalls while the scent of jasmine and pine creates an atmosphere of tranquility rare in Silicon Valley. Admission costs $8 for adults and includes access to all garden areas, though the tea house requires separate reservations for traditional tea ceremonies. Visit on weekday mornings when the garden is nearly empty and you can properly appreciate the subtle design principles that make every view picture-perfect.

The garden is located within Kelley Park at 1300 Senter Road in San Jose. If you're driving, take Highway 101 to the Tully Road exit and follow signs to Kelley Park - it's pretty well marked once you're in the area. Public transit is a bit trickier, but VTA bus lines do serve the area. You'll want to check current routes since they tend to change. Once you're in Kelley Park, the Japanese Garden is clearly signed and only a short walk from the main parking areas.