Garden · San Diego

Japanese Friendship Garden

Japanese Friendship Garden
Photo: Heirlayna, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The Japanese Friendship Garden displays classic Japanese landscape design. Visitors see raked gravel, stone lanterns and seasonal flowers. Look for the koi pond and the wooden tea house near the entrance.

Updated September 27, 2026On day 11 of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego in 14 Days

Visiting Japanese Friendship Garden: what to know

Tickets
Admission fees apply; confirm current prices on site or website.
Time needed
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
Spring and fall for mild weather and plant blooms.
Getting there
Inside Balboa Park; reached by car, bus or on foot from central San Diego.

San Diego itineraries with Japanese Friendship Garden

Day 11 of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego in 14 Days

Balboa Park

How Japanese Friendship Garden fits into a day.
  1. 9:30Balboa ParkSan Diego
  2. 10:30Botanical BuildingSan Diego
  3. 12:00Japanese Friendship GardenSan Diego
  4. 14:00San Diego ZooSan Diego
See all 14 days
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Japanese Friendship Garden FAQs

What are the opening hours?

Hours vary by season. Check the official website before visiting.

Is the garden wheelchair accessible?

Main paths are paved and accessible. Some gravel areas may be uneven.

Are there guided tours?

Tours are offered on select days. Confirm schedule on the garden website.

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