I live in Connecticut and visit San Diego to see my son's family, and other members of my husband's family. (He is a San Diego native.) We love to visit the garden, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms turn the canyon into a sea of pink. The koi pond, the visitor center and the food add to the whole experience. The newsletter has been helpful about explaining Japanese dolls, etc. for our grandchildren here in Connecticut.
Review from Guidestar
A visit to the garden offers the experience and enjoyment of a Japanese garden art and landscaping. We enjoy visiting each season, watching the gardens grow,observing the age old bonsai, and strolling thru the latest exhibits.
The Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego is a great place to visit and a wonderful change of pace. The first thing that you notice when entering the garden is there is an air of tranquility about the place. Everything from the carefully raked rocks to the the beautiful Koi swimming in the pool seems to all blend in perfectly. You can end your visit with a nice Japanese lunch, everything at reasonable prices.
I began work last summer, and have loved every minute I spend in the garden. It is very beautiful and well groomed, and the staff in the garden have been wonderful and patient trainers. I've also taken Ikebana classes with a delightful master teacher and classmates. The orientation classes make regular contributions to my understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and my garden experience.
The first time I stepped into the Japanese Friendship Garden, I felt as if I had been taken back in time to the 16th Century where Samurai still roamed the Gardens.
Review from Guidestar
There is a reason Japanese Friendship Garden San Diego is called Friendship. The staff and garden keepers are genuine and true to their name
Review from Guidestar
The Garden is a lovely peaceful place, exceptionally well maintained and operated. The admission rate for non-members is very fair bringing in visitors from among the many who visit the museums in Balboa Park and, of course, the Zoo. It is a peaceful retreat and, at the small café, for tea or lunch.
Review from Guidestar
I have always enjoyed Japanese Gardens, so I became a member of the Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego as soon as I moved here - 30 years ago. In such a small space, this non-profit has created a truly miniature but authentic garden for contemplation, enjoyment of beauty, reminders of mountains and seashores and lakes and streams. One special event I attended was a workshop on Wellness. Another was a Bento Lunch to raise funds for the major addition to the Garden , such a long time in the planning and permitting process. I so hope this extension will be complete in my lifetime so that even more San Diego residents and visitors can enjoy a very special place where humans treasure Nature.
Review from Guidestar
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a model nonprofit organization. It has a wonderful staff and committed leadership. Its public programming is engaging--there is something for every age level to enjoy. The grounds, located in beautiful Balboa Park, are exquisitely kept. If you are in need of serenity and inspiration, the Garden is a wonderful place to visit.
Review from Guidestar