Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park lies the Japanese Tea Garden, a serene oasis that captivates visitors from around the world. At the heart of this enchanting garden stands the tea house, known as the Hagiwara Tea House, which has an interesting history and showcases the exquisite beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. Do you know the story of this Northern California tea house?
Originally constructed in Japan for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Hagiwara Tea House was meticulously crafted and later dismantled, making its journey to San Francisco.
In Golden Gate Park, it was painstakingly reassembled, where it stands to this day as a testament to the enduring cultural exchange between Japan and the United States.
The Japanese Tea Garden itself was initially established as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the same exposition. Spanning approximately one acre, it showcased a meticulously designed Japanese-style garden.
When the exposition came to a close, a gentleman's agreement was struck between Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara and superintendent John McLaren, allowing Mr. Hagiwara to create and maintain a permanent Japanese-style garden as a gift for future generations.
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Devoting his personal wealth, passion, and creative talents, Mr. Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately five acres.
The Hagiwara family lived within the garden for many years until 1942, when the turbulent times of World War II led to the forced evacuation of Japanese Americans, including the Hagiwaras, to internment camps. Regrettably, upon their return, the family was barred from reclaiming their home at the tea garden, and subsequent alterations were made to the cherished property.
Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of San Francisco's most beloved attractions, drawing visitors who seek solace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
It features iconic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese flora, serene koi ponds, and a tranquil zen garden. The garden's ethereal beauty reaches its peak in March and April when cherry blossom trees grace the landscape with their delicate blooms.
Within the garden, the newly refurbished Tea House beckons visitors to indulge in a moment of tranquility while savoring a meditative cup of tea.
The Tea House, with its custom-designed irori or farmhouse-style family table, offers a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape and the south-facing pond.
The Tea House menu tantalizes with an array of tea selections, including sencha tea, genmaicha, and hojicha.
For anyone wanting a bite to eat, the food options range from udon and chicken karaage to the delectable green tea cheesecake and more.
Tickets to the Japanese Tea Garden can be conveniently purchased online or at the entrance. All admissions and visitor information are managed by the San Francisco Botanical Gardens Society, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
