NOW OPEN- Van Nuys
6100 Woodley Ave, Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Nestled amidst the bustling San Fernando Valley lies an oasis of serenity – the Japanese Garden at Van Nuys, also known as Suihōen (水芳園), meaning “garden of water and fragrance.” This captivating 6.5-acre sanctuary transports you to a world of tranquility, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese garden design and a chance to reconnect with nature’s calming embrace.
A Journey Through Three Distinct Styles
The Japanese Garden at Van Nuys is a masterpiece of design, incorporating three distinct styles of Japanese gardens. As you embark on your exploration, prepare to be enveloped by:
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Tsukiyama (mountain borrowing) style: This style cleverly borrows the scenery of the surrounding hills, creating the illusion of a much larger space. Let your imagination wander as the boundaries between the garden and the natural landscape seem to blur.
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Chisen (pond garden) style: A central pond, symbolizing the vastness of the ocean, takes center stage in this style. Graceful bridges connect small islands within the pond, adding a touch of whimsy and tranquility to the scene. Keep an eye out for the vibrant koi fish that call this pond their home.
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Kare-sansui (dry landscape) style: Embrace the beauty of minimalism with the Kare-sansui style. Rocks, sand, and gravel are meticulously arranged to represent water and mountains, creating a space for contemplation and reflection.
A Haven for Relaxation and Reflection
The Japanese Garden at Van Nuys is more than just a visual treat. It’s a place to unwind, de-stress, and reconnect with your inner peace.
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Stroll the Winding Paths: Meandering paths, crafted from natural materials, weave through the landscape, inviting you on a journey of discovery. Allow yourself to be present in the moment, savoring the sights, sounds, and scents of the garden.
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Find Serenity by the Koi Pond: The gentle murmur of water and the graceful dance of the koi fish create a calming atmosphere. Take a seat on a nearby bench and let the tranquility wash over you.
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Unwind Amidst the Dry Landscape: The stark beauty of the Kare-sansui style fosters a sense of peace and mindfulness. Allow the raked sand and meticulously placed rocks to inspire contemplation and a connection with nature’s simplicity.
A Cultural Gem in the City
The Japanese Garden at Van Nuys isn’t just a beautiful space; it’s a cultural gem. As you explore, you’ll encounter traditional Japanese elements like:
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Torii gate: A traditional gate that marks the entrance to the garden, signifying a transition from the everyday world to a sacred space.
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Pagoda: A multi-tiered tower, a familiar feature in Japanese gardens, adds an architectural touch and a sense of history.
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Tea house: While not always open to the public, the presence of a tea house hints at the cultural significance of tea ceremonies in Japanese tradition.
Plan Your Tranquil Escape
The Japanese Garden at Van Nuys is open to the public free of charge (donations are appreciated). The garden is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, offering a convenient escape during the workweek or a peaceful weekend retreat.
Embrace the Tranquility
The Japanese Garden at Van Nuys awaits you. Immerse yourself in the calming beauty of this haven, explore the intricacies of Japanese garden design, and discover a place for relaxation, reflection, and a touch of cultural exploration. So, take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and find your moment of peace amidst the serenity of the Japanese Garden.
Hours and Admission
Hours
Monday – Thursday:
- Morning Reservation Window (9:30am – 12:00pm)
- Afternoon Reservation Window (1:00pm – 3:30pm)
- Between 12:00pm – 1:00pm, we are CLOSED
We are closed Friday through Sunday; closed on all Federal & City of Los Angeles Holidays; and closed within 24 hours of rain.
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Admission
Admission is currently Free!
Right now, our reservation system will be under maintenance, so guests will NOT NEED A RESERVATION TO VISIT THE GARDEN. During this time, guests may arrive as “walk-ins.” Please note the reservations system will eventually return!
Admission is free and guests are allowed a 2.5 hour window to visit the Japanese Garden. Adherence to Terms and Conditions (listed below) are required.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Space in the Garden is limited, so visitors are permitted to visit either during the “Morning” or “Afternoon” window – they CANNOT visit for both in the same day, as this would take away openings from other potential guest bookings.
Groups of 10 or more people must call in the day of desired visitation to check if there is capacity available for their group.
When guests arrive, they must check in at the Security gate before entering the parking lot, and then sign in at the Admission Office before entering the garden.
The 2.5 hour time window is strictly enforced and guests who arrive 15 minutes before the closing of that time window will not be allowed to enter. Each group must exit the garden before their time window expires.
All members of the booking party must follow the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health COVID-19
guidelines including, but not limited to:
- Prior to attending your reservation you and all members of your party will conduct a self-symptom check
for cough, shortness of breath, and/or fever prior to entering the facility. If any symptoms are present,
you may not enter the facility. - Though there is not a mask mandate for the outdoor areas of the garden, there is one for entering buildings (including restrooms) on City property.
- Maintain social distancing of 6 ft. from non-household members while on City property.
Please note that in case of significant rain within 24 hours of your scheduled visit time The Garden will be closed.
You should email the “contact the event organizer” link the day of your visit if rain occurs to verify.
In addition, all regular Garden visiting rules (see “Garden Etiquette”) apply during your time slot. These include
but are not limited to; staying on the pathways at all times, photography is limited to incidental shots of visiting the Garden and no food or drink (other than water) is allowed. Drinking fountains are not available, please bring water with you to the site.
For additional information, visit the website @
thejapanesegarden.com
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