Wells Japanese Garden in South Carolina is one of the many hidden gems scattered all over the state. From secret parks to waterfalls, archaeological treasures, and more, there is a wealth of beautiful and exciting places to explore right here in our own backyard. To that end, not many people know about the Japanese Tea Garden tucked away on a side street in the City of Newberry. Let’s take a look at one of the best gardens in South Carolina.

Located on Lindsay Street and only a few steps behind Newberry City Hall, the Japanese Garden Newberry, SC is a small but lovely place to escape.
jlantern3/TripAdvisor
The garden was built in 1930 at the height of the Great Depression by Newberry native and architect W. Fulmer Wells.
At that point, the garden was part of the Wells estate, which spanned the length of the next city block all the way to Harrington Street.
Stephanie C/Tripadvisor
The small, triangular-shaped garden that remains contains a series of walking paths and focal points.
The important landmark was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
jlantern3/Tripadvisor
We think it's one of the best little Japanese gardens in South Carolina.

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Wells created two ponds that now have concrete bridges, including a Japanese Moon Bridge.
City of Newberry
The garden also contains a traditional Japanese Torii that serves as a gate to the sacred garden. It stands at what is now a cornerstone entrance from the street.
And no Japanese garden would be complete without a teahouse.
Rachel Sloan/Google
The structure in the Wells garden has a traditional tile roof. The posts that support the heavy roof were reclaimed from the Newberry Opera House which was under renovation at the same time as Wells built his Japanese garden.
The Wells Japanese Garden makes perfect use of the small space it occupies in downtown Newberry.
Christina Nielsen/Google
It offers a quiet respite for a cup of tea of the bring-your-own variety or to just to take a break from your usual routine.
You'll easily find it tucked away on the road right behind Newberry City Hall.
Google / maps

Wells Japanese Garden offers more information on the web page. It’s one of the many hidden gems only the locals know about. Have you discovered this place in the Palmetto State? Please share your experience in the comments below.

For a DIY project, read the book “Create Your Own Japanese Garden: A Practical Guide.” And discover more about the charming and historic town of Newberry.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Gardens In South Carolina

Carolyn Harmon | April 11, 2024

What are some of the best gardens in South Carolina?

  • Pearl Fryar’s Topiary Garden (Bishopville): This three-acre property is so much more than a garden. Full of beautiful plants, topiaries, and sculptures, the lovely space represents the inspiration of Fryar.
  • Swan Lake Iris Gardens (Sumter): In addition to the lovely iris varieties, this is the only public park in the United States that features all eight swan species. On the garden's 150 acres, more than 120 varieties of irises bloom in late spring bringing vibrant colors and wonderful aromas.
  • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (Charleston): Among the moss-laden, live California oak trees the alligators and turtles bask in the sun. Explore more than 300 years of history at the Audubon Swamp Garden, the historic River Walk, and the Magnolia home.
  • Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve (Spartanburg): This pretty park has a Fit in the Garden trail, a Butterfly Garden, a Conifer Display Garden, a Garden of Hope and Healing, and several other green spaces for education and relaxation.
  • Cypress Gardens (Moncks Corner): The swamp boat rides are just one of the many adventures available where you might see lily pads, alligators, turtles, brown creepers, and orange-crowned warblers.

Where are some historic sites to visit in South Carolina?

  • Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site (Clinton): The Visitors Center is informative, including exciting exhibits that tell the story of the battle and what it meant for South Carolina's role in the outcome of the Revolutionary War. Many programs and tours are offered throughout the year.
  • Ninety Six National Historic Site (Ninety Six): The 18th-century history is alive and well at this authentic and important spot. It's amazing to see Star Fort, which is original. Soldiers started building it in December 1780 and finished in early 1781. It looks the same today as it did back then!

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1608 Lindsay St, Newberry, SC 29108, USA