The Japanese Garden

4.5$· InexpensiveClosed · opens tomorrow 9:30 AM

Serene 6.5-acre traditional Japanese garden oasis in Lake Balboa

The Japanese Garden
Website Directions 818-756-8166

Located in the San Fernando Valley, The Japanese Garden (SuihoEn) offers a tranquil sanctuary designed by Dr. Koichi Kawana. The grounds feature a dry Zen meditation garden, scenic bridges spanning a koi-filled pond, stone lanterns, and an authentic tea house setting. Uniquely irrigated with reclaimed water from the adjacent Tillman Water Reclamation Plant, it seamlessly blends traditional Japanese landscape design with sustainable modern water engineering.

History

The Japanese Garden, also known as Suiho En (the garden of water and fragrance), was designed by Dr. Koichi Kawana and opened to the public in 1984. It is designed to present an authentically crafted traditional Japanese garden. The site is a water reclamation plant, and the garden was created to demonstrate a positive use of reclaimed water in a beautiful setting.

Quick tip: Advance online reservations are required to enter, as drop-in visitors without a booking are not permitted.

Expert notes

  • Photography is allowed, but avoid using tripods or professional equipment without permission.
  • Respect the tranquil environment by keeping noise to a minimum.

Features

  • Bridges
  • Japanese bridges
  • Koi ponds
  • Lakes and Ponds
  • Meditation Area
  • Picnic Area
  • Tea house
  • Tea House
  • Walking Paths
  • Waterfalls
  • Zen garden

Special occasion reservations

  • To reserve the garden for private events, contact the management via phone or email.
  • Early booking is recommended as the venue is popular for events.

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