San Mateo Japanese Garden — Attraction in San Mateo

Hidden in the middle of a residential/business small city within a centrally located Park is where you will find a gate almost invisible if not during "Open" hours that once you pass through (admission free) you will feel like everything around you except for the sky has transformed from a rare lovable city with in the States into a Japanese forest village not modernized by population for generations.

Ever since I've discovered this Hidden Oasis, I've not only used it for occasional relatives & friends that come to visit from afar but at least once every couple of weeks as a perfect little meditation op to getaway to & recharge my mind 💆.

The best part about it- Small area but very satisfying due to the couple of trails that have been perfectly routed within the mini forest with multiple areas to just sit & take in the comforting views from bonsais to the statues and the architecture of the landmarks , whether you decide to stay to they close or just do a quick stroll before dinner at one of the delicious restaurants on 3rd & 4th Street, this place will leave a very memorable impression on your Guests as well as have you feeling like you just stepped out of your favorite spa/massage center.

If you go there for the first time soon.... Find the The Bird and The Turtle (Statues, not live) and let me know where they...

This Japanese Tea Garden is one of the best kept secrets in San Mateo. Tucked inside a section of the main urban, city park called Central Park, the San Mateo Japanese Garden is free to the public and can be crowded during the weekend with so many people walking, sitting and enjoying the tranquil scenery. For those who are planning to have a party or a wedding, the city of San Mateo will rent this lovely Japanese garden for a fee.

The almost 50 year old San Mateo Japanese Garden was designed by landscape architect, Nagao Sakurai, of the Imperial Palace of Tokyo. This strolling garden features a granite pagoda, tea house, koi pond, waterfall, bamboo grove, walking bridges and many bonsai to admire at every corner. This Japanese Tea Garden is beautiful throughout the year, especially during the late Winter and early Spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

It takes about 10 minutes to walk leisurely the entire perimeter to gaze and enjoy every vista. You can watch the park staff feed the koi at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, during Spring and Summer (fish are not fed during public hours November - February).

Metered street parking Monday - Saturday. Free...

The Japanese Gardens in San Mateo is quite charming. First parking can seem to be a bit difficult for the out of towner, as the huge Central Park, in which the Japanese Gardens is contained, can be quite busy. That said, park under the tennis courts on East 5th. If you miss it the first time, just lap the block and try again, I know I have has to do that! Once under the tennis courts, you will find shaded easy parking. It may take a minute for you eyes to adjust in the parking lot as it is not brightly lit, but lit enough after a minute of adjustment. The machine for the parking fee is on the end by the entrance and I found the price quite reasonable. Now exit at the far inside of the lot and presto you are right at the entrance to the Japanese Gardens. The beautiful coy pond is loaded with huge fish! The walk around is so pleasant and it just seems so cool and peaceful as one stroll. Bring a great friend for some wonderful chats, or come alone and let it be reflective and meditative. What ever you choose. This place is so clean, peaceful, well maintained and lovely, I want to come again and again...