The Secret Garden Hike In Arizona Will Make You Feel Like You’re In A Fairytale

Sometimes, even things located in the most public of places can be hidden by design. That’s precisely the case with a secret Japanese garden located within a park in Greater Phoenix. This hidden gem opened in 1996 and is an oasis in the heart of a city engaged in commerce. Take a look below and then, the next time you’re in the area, add this to your must-see list.

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The design of the park, and the unique features found within, make delightful use of every inch of the 3.5 acres that make up this peaceful and gorgeous space.

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The gardens here are a joint effort between the City of Phoenix and its sister city of Himeji, Japan. The garden's teahouse and surrounding tea garden, along with the thousands of hours to construct the space, were a gift from the City of Himeji and its citizens.

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In addition to the tea house and tea garden, a stroll garden, a courtyard garden and a stone garden add to this hidden and delightful surprise.

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And have you visited? We'd love to know!

The Japanese Friendship Garden is located at 1125 N 3rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85003 and is open seasonally from October through May. Current hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., as well as from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays & Sundays. The garden is closed on Mondays. General admission is $10, seniors 62+, students and military are $7, children under 6 are free. Learn more on the official website for the Japanese Friendship Garden.

Additional directions from within the Phoenix area: When riding the Light Rail, exit at the Central and Roosevelt stop. The Garden is located on the west side of the rail, 0.3 miles from the station; it is directly behind the Irish Cultural Center (1106 N. Central Ave, Phoenix), just north of Portland Avenue. The Garden entrance is across the parking lot at 1125 N. 3rd Avenue. The Japanese Friendship Garden is open seasonally from October 1st through May 31st.