This Japanese garden in Philadelphia makes for a perfect afternoon out in nature. Fairmount Park has been an oasis in an otherwise urban landscape for centuries, and Philadelphians can explore more than 2,000 acres of green space by foot, trolley, or bike. There’s one hidden spot in particular nestled among historic buildings and streams that might actually be the most beautiful place in Philadelphia, so you’ve got to check it out. The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is one of the most impressive sites in the entire park system — and it’s easy to see why! Check out this Japanese garden near me.

You can find the Shofuso House along Lansdowne Drive, behind the Please Touch Museum.
japanese garden philadelphia
MyPhillyPark
Japanese architect Junzo Yoshimura built the house in 1953, in Nagoya, Japan.
japanese garden philadelphia
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook and Garden
The Shofuso House was originally on display as part of an exhibition by the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
When the MoMA exhibition was complete, the Shofuso House was moved to Philadelphia.
japanese garden philadelphia
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
The site for the Shofuso house was chosen because there had been a continuous Japanese presence here since the 1876 Centennial Exposition. At that time, the first Japanese garden in North America was built near a tiny Japanese bazaar in Fairmount Park.
This year marks the House and Garden's 60th year in Fairmount Park, and it's one of the best Japanese gardens in Pennsylvania.
japanese garden philadelphia
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
In that time, it has gained community support and undergone significant renovation to preserve it as a historic building.
When you get close to the gates, you'll notice a Japanese stone lantern from the 19th century.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
This lantern was brought to Philadelphia during the 1876 Centennial Exhibition.
The snow lantern, at the edge of the pond, is also older than the house itself.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
It was a gift from the mayor of Tokyo in 1953, in response to a replica Liberty Bell sent to the city by Philadelphia.

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The gorgeous koi pond in the garden features more than just pretty fish. Look for a few resident turtles and a waterfall!
mskelly0202/Tripadvisor
The waterfall is one of the hallmarks of the garden, which was ranked as one of the best Japanese gardens in the country.
You'll find nothing but peace and serenity as you walk these quiet grounds.
Donna C/Tripadvisor
Enjoy the viewing garden, tea garden, and courtyard garden as you stroll the winding paths.
Even in the bitter cold of winter, the Shofuso House is a picture of a peaceful day.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
In any weather, we think this is the prettiest Japanese garden in Pennsylvania.
Inside the house itself, you'll find 20 stunning waterfall murals.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
These were donated in 2007 by the famous Japanese artist, Hiroshi Senju. The house's original murals were destroyed by vandals in the 1970s.
The view from the 15 Mat room into the garden is breathtaking in any season.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
The pretty and intricate Ikebana arrangements rotate throughout the year, and in the fall, there is an exhibition of the best from local Ikebana clubs and artists.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
The historic pavilion dates back to 1876 and is a site for events and programs held by the Japanese community in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.
Shofuso Japanese House/Facebook
The Shofuso House and Garden is often the site of fun and educational community events! Keep an eye on the calendar in case something is of interest to you.

This Japanese garden in Philadelphia is worth exploring. Discover more on the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia website. Did you know that Philadelphia is considered America’s Garden Capital? Have you been to this lovely place? If so, please share your experience in the comments below.

Learn how to make your own Japanese Garden. And for another fun afternoon, visit the Neon Museum of Philadelphia.

There’s A Neon Museum In Pennsylvania And It’s Full Of Fascinating Artifacts

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More to Explore

Gardens In Philadelphia

Carolyn Harmon | May 01, 2024

What are some of the best gardens in Philadelphia?

  • Magic Gardens: You won't believe your eyes at this interesting space located on South Street. Four ongoing themes run concurrently with its known massive glittering mosaics and outdoor sculpture garden. This place holds special meaning for many.
  • Bartram’s Garden: This public park spans nearly 50 acres and the blooms change frequently. Go fishing, birding, or picnicking at this pretty place. You can also learn about arts and culture and how to grow a garden.
  • Morris Arboretum and Gardens: Part of the University of Pennsylvania, the annual fundraiser Moonlight & Roses is worth the price of admission. For more than 40 years, this fun event has packed in more than 500 people.
  • Chanticleer Garden (Wayne): One big draw to this gorgeous garden is the historic Chanticleer House, designed by architect Charles L. Borie. Built in 1913, it is open for tours by reservation.

Where are some of the best state parks in Pennsylvania?

  • Reeds Gap State Park (Milroy): Some of the hiking trails that weave throughout the 220 acres of wilderness in the New Lancaster Valley go through rich, wooded forests and along the lovely Honey Creek.
  • Fowlers Hollow State Park (Blain): These pretty, 104 acres sit on the edge of the enchanting Tuscarora State Forest. Reserve a camping site and explore the many nature trails on the property.

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Lansdowne Drive & Horticultural Drive, Lansdowne Dr & Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA