Sample some authentic Japanese tea and enjoy the beautiful exotic plants here in this city centre peaceful retreat.
As soon as you walk through the Japanese Tea Gardens’ main door, an imitation of a traditional Japanese torii gate, you will find yourself immersed in an oriental heaven. This tranquil setting is overflowing with exotic plants, pagodas, koi (carp) ponds, as well a miniature waterfall. Traditional Asian cuisine is served in the Japanese-style café along with a variety of other snacks, desserts and beverages.
Situated adjacent to the city's Brackenridge Park, the Japanese Tea Gardens were built on the site of an abandoned quarry. In 1917 the City Parks Commissioner envisioned a lily pond in the pit of the quarry and work began the following year. Gradually the Oriental-style garden began to emerge with the addition of plant-lined paths and a spectacular Japanese-style pagoda. You will see it at the entrance to the gardens, a magnificent, open-air structure with beautifully carved stone columns and unrivalled views of the lily pond and waterfall. It is such a breathtaking pavilion that weddings and social occasions are often celebrated here.
What makes the Japanese Tea Gardens so special is that it was funded through a combined effort of everyone in the city. From locals donating bulbs, the city nursery donating exotic plants, to the City Public Service providing the lighting system, everyone got involved. Continuous improvements have been made to the gardens throughout the years with a staggering $1.5 million US dollars spent in 2008.
The Japanese Tea Gardens really are an unexpected jewel in the city and a must-see for any visitor to San Antonio. Whether you want to take part in the tea ceremony or just sit by the waterfall, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city in this tranquil environment.
