The Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix is a 3.5 acre garden that is as authentic as those in Japan. With tranquil ponds and bridges, lush greenery all around you, and meticulously arranged rocks, this garden feels like an oasis in the middle of the desert. Phoenix's Japanese Friendship Garden is the perfect way to unwind, especially during the months when our city is more red than green.
Tucked away in a corner of the garden is a beautiful waterfall, creating the perfect backdrop for some meditation on one of the large rocks or benches nearby. The garden and waterfall are one of the best-kept secrets in Phoenix, so you'll likely have plenty of sweet, sweet silence.
While gardens in the U.S. traditionally focus on flowers, Japanese gardens focus more on atmosphere and design. The Japanese Friendship Garden was created with special care to ensure the layout reflects Japanese culture and traditions.
Every detail, down to the last rock, is intended to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Not to mention, makes for the prettiest photos.
A large koi pond, stepping stone and traditional bridges, a waterfall, and a huge array of plants all serve to make this garden a place of relaxation.
If you're feeling especially stressed, maybe try your hand at some meditation. If you're still on edge after leaving the garden, maybe consider stopping into this bookstore/bar nearby.
The Japanese Friendship Garden was created to express the positive relationship between Phoenix and its sister city Himeji, Japan.
Representatives from Himeji helped design and create the garden, ensuring its authenticity and promoting Japanese culture through classes and workshops offered at the garden.
A variety of workshops and classes are available at the Japanese Friendship Garden, including a 30-minute Japanese Tea Ceremony, a wood carving workshop, Tai Chi and sound meditation classes, bamboo and pine workshops, flower arranging, and more.
Relax and unwind in this tranquil space filled with lush plants and hidden waterfalls. Admission is $10 per adult, the garden is open October through May, Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
If you're hungry afterwards, check out these ramen spots for some true Japanese fare.
Take advantage of this gorgeous Phoenix oasis while it's open, and maybe try your hand at one of their classes. You never know if you're a master Bonsai tree pruner until you try, right?
Japenese Friendship Garden
Price: $10
When: October through May
Address: 1125 N. 3rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ
Why You Need To Go: Escape the noise of the city without leaving the city itself in this tranquil garden oasis.
