How to Enjoy San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden

By Kelsey Kennedy | August 19, 2024

Yes, it’s a little bit strange that there’s a Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio, especially considering that it’s one of the most Latino-majority cities in Texas. Kind of an odd place for such a garden. Moreover, there’s some complicated history surrounding this gorgeous oasis.

But it is truly one of San Antonio's most underrated gems and one of the best things to do in the city. So, before you head out to the Japanese Tea Garden, check out these quick facts to help make your visit a lovely one.

Why is there a Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio?

It’s a bit weird, right? There aren't exactly a lot of other significant Japanese cultural destinations in San Antonio. Scratch that, there really aren't any!

Here’s the history: The Japanese Tea Garden was originally a rock quarry that the city leased it out to stone cutters during the 1800s.

In the early 1900s, when the stone quarry had been shut down, the city of San Antonio got their hands on some beautiful land nearby that they wanted to make into a public park (what is now Brackenridge Park). Problem was, what to do with the giant hole in the ground where the stone quarry had been?

The Parks Commissioner had an idea, transform it into a traditional Japanese Tea Garden. Western society had a newfound fascination with Japanese art at the time, and the stone quarry presented some natural dips and valleys in it that could be turned into a Japanese-inspired garden. They just needed to add some foot bridges, koi ponds, walkways, and waterfalls.

How was the Japanese Tea Garden built?

The Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio was built with prison labor. Between 1917 and 1918, City Parks Commissioner Ray Lambert used prison laborers to take the stone quarry and shape it into a garden. He added stone bridges, a Japanese pagoda, and lily ponds.

The community stepped up to help as well with local residents donating plants the City Public Service Company donating the lighting. With the cheap labor and donations, the garden only cost about $7k to create.

Who is the Jingu family?

In 1919, a local Japanese-American artist who had helped design the Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio was invited by the city to move into the garden itself as a caretaker. Kimi Eizo Jingu and his wife, Miyoshi, moved in and took over care for the garden. During their time there, they built a tearoom, grew their thriving tea business, and brought up 8 children.

In 1938, Kimi passed away and his wife oversaw the work. Miyoshi and her children were later evicted from their garden home in 1941 due to the growing anti-Japanese sentiment of WW11.

Why is there a sign that says “Chinese Tea Garden?”

With the Jingu family officially out and anti-Japanese feelings at an all time high, the city asked a Chinese family to move in and operate the facility. The name was changed and for about four decades, the garden was simply known as the “Chinese Tea Garden” or the "Sunken Garden."

In 1984, Mayor Henry Cisneros restored the original name to the Japanese Tea Garden in a ceremony attended by Jingu's children and representatives of the Japanese government.

But an archway still remains at the entrance to the garden that says “Chinese Tea Garden,” commemorating the complicated past of the space.

When was the garden restored?

After the garden was renamed, it sat empty and in decay due to lack of funding for its upkeep. Then, between 2005-2009, the city threw more than $2 million dollars into the restoration of the ponds, waterfall, walkways, pagoda, and Jingu house. Work was completed in October 2011 and the park has been a beautiful addition to the Alamo City ever since.

How long should I spend in the Japanese Tea Garden?

It’s pretty small, which is actually a good thing! The Japanese Tea Garden could easily be enjoyed in under 20 minutes so it doesn't require a huge chunk of time.

However, if you have a bit longer, 30-60 minutes will give you plenty of time. Explore all of the pathways, check out the waterfall, take lots of photos, and leisurely enjoy the sights.

If the weather is nice and you add in a lunch, plan on 2 hours to eat, explore, and relax in the zen space. The Japanese Tea Garden is the perfect peaceful place to enjoy some outdoor time on a nice day (read: less than 80 degrees) in SA.

How much does the Japanese Tea Garden cost to visit?

The Japanese Tea Garden is completely free to visit! I highly recommend a stop at the garden for any visitor (or local, for that matter!) to SA. It doesn't take long, and without an entry fee, can be enjoyed for as short of time or as long of time as you wish.

Where can I eat at the Japanese Tea Garden?

The garden is home to a delightful little Japanese restaurant called the Jingu House. Located in the Jingu family's original home, the restaurant serves Japanese fare for brunch and lunch.

The Jingu House menu reads like a "best of" for traditional Japanese food. So, chances are, if you've heard of it and know it to be Japanese, you can get it. I tried the gyoza, buns, and katsu and all were prepared traditionally and tasted fantastic.

Entrees at the Jingu House run $15-$20 and make a great addition to a visit to the Japanese Tea Garden.

WEBSITE | 3853 N. St. Mary's St., San Antonio, TX 78212

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Other FAQs about the Japanese Tea Garden

Is there free parking?

Yep! There’s free parking right outside the garden. The lot is small and is often full. But you can find additional parking across Alpine Street at the Tuesday Musical Club.

Can I take photos in the garden?

Yeah, photos are allowed. Just keep in mind that there will likely be other people walking around so you'll have to work around the crowds. Unless you can find a magical time when you have the garden to yourself!

When is the Japanese Tea Garden open?

The garden is open daily from 7am to 5pm.

Can I book private events here?

The Japanese Tea Garden is available for private events! The pavilion, patio, and upper garden can hold 300 guests and provides a lovely place for a wedding, corporate lunch, or party. The Jingu House is also on hand for events and catering.

WEBSITE | 3853 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212