San Francisco the fourth most populous city in California is full of color, life and culture! You have ocean, cable cars, shopping, delicious food, architecture, crowds of diverse people, and some of the most spectacular gardens!
Golden Gate Park is over 1 thousand acres of natures beauty, inspiration, and entertainment. There is no fee to enter the park but various costs depending on what you choose to do. A picnic and walk in this majestic park is a wonderful time and practically free! However, to visit the gardens there is a minimal fee. Usually $10-$20 depending on day and garden. For me it’s free because I am a member of the Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery in Walnut Creek, California. It grants myself and a guest free admission to many garden’s throughout Northern California that are associated with the American Horticulture Society. (Interested in a AHS membership, Click Here) Also there are many gardens throughout Northern California you can go to for Free without membership. See my post about the UC Davis Arboretum!
On this particular Winter day, I decided to take a jaunt into the city to visit Golden Gate Park. I knew the sun was going to be shining, the air crisp, and because it was a weekday; I’d beat the crowds! First Stop:
Japanese Tea Garden
This fabulous garden is lush with color, koi ponds, wandering paths, wooden bridges, and beautiful pagodas. The fall colors were still vibrant as ever and it made for the most stunning images.
As you walk the various stone paths, wooden bridges, and walkways you can hear birds singing and I promise it’ll make your soul sing too as you meander in such peaceful beauty.
As beautiful and quaint as the garden itself, is a lovely wooden covered platform nestled in the center of the garden with panoramic views that are open to the elements. It has seating along the edges with wooden counters and stools that allow for garden and koi pond views, or the farmhouse-style community table. (please note it is not enclosed and on this day was a tad chilly but nothing a hot cup of tea couldn’t warm.) There is the perfect selection of teas and for those who must have coffee or other chilled beverages, there is that as an option as well. In addition to the Grilled Rice Cake (yum), and the various cookies displayed, they also served numerous savory soups and grilled items. See menu and info HERE. This Tea House would make a wonderful place for a lovely lunch date ♥
As you peacefully walk the paths and cross the bridges you will enjoy the sound of the various small waterfall features that pour into the koi ponds throughout this tranquil garden.
A simply wonderful time at the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden. Next time you head to the City make sure to stop and enjoy the gardens ♥ Perhaps this one at the top of your list!
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