Nestled in the charming town of Saratoga, CA, lies a serene oasis that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Hakone Estate and Gardens, a Japanese Garden, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offers a tranquil escape filled with beauty, history, and a touch of Zen. If you’re a Bay Area local looking for a peaceful retreat or a delightful half-day adventure, this guide will show you why the Japanese Tea Garden in Saratoga should be on your must-visit list.
How old is Hakone Gardens?
Hakone Gardens, an 18-acre traditional Japanese garden in Saratoga, California, United States boasts a rich history, dating back over 100 years! It was built in the early 1900s, making it one of the oldest Japanese-style gardens in the Western Hemisphere.
How long does it take to see Hakone Gardens
A leisurely stroll through Hakone Gardens can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, but it depends on your pace and if you participate in activities like the tea ceremony. You can explore the gardens in as little as 30 minutes if you’re short on time.
When is the best time to visit the Hakone Estate Gardens
The best time to visit Hakone Estate Gardens depends on what you prioritize. For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, weekdays during spring (minus cherry blossom season) or fall are ideal. Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) offers stunning blooms, but expect larger crowds. For a unique experience, check their event calendar for night viewing or cultural events!
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Admission Fees and Hours
Before you plan your visit, it’s important to know the admission fees and operating hours:
- Location: Hakone Gardens is conveniently located at 21000 Big Basin Way in Saratoga, California, a short drive from San Jose.
- Parking: On-site parking is available near the entrance, making your visit hassle-free.
- Admission Fees
- Adults: $12
- Seniors: $10
- Children: $8
- Free Admission
- Saratoga residents: First Tuesday of the month (with proof of residency)
- Santa Clara County residents: First Tuesday of March-October or First Saturday of November-February (with proof of residency)
Hakone Estate and Gardens is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on major holidays. Be sure to check their website for any updates or special events that might affect these hours.
Why you should visit the Hakone Gardens in Saratoga
The garden is very beautiful and complex and has had a long time to grow properly. There are multiple traditional Japanese buildings and charming paths, trails, and stairs; some of the climbing is a bit steep, but over short distances. Other reasons to go and visit the gardens are:
- Escape the Bay Area rush in this peaceful Japanese garden
- It was a Film Location for the Movie Memoirs of a Geisha
- Explore one of the oldest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere!
- Get your Nature fix and Stroll gardens, admire koi ponds, and breathe deep
- Learn about tea ceremonies, origami, and traditional architecture
- Affordable admission with free entry for some residents
- Perfect for all ages, with koi and beautiful scenery
- Enjoy cherry blossoms, summer greens, fall colors, and winter serenity
- Convenient location in Saratoga with parking
- Extend your day in charming downtown Saratoga
- Could be your wedding venue
- A Journey to Japan Without the Plane Ticket: Stepping into Hakone feels like stepping into another world. The meticulously designed gardens, with their koi ponds, pagodas, and serene atmosphere, will transport you straight to Kyoto.
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Making a Day (or Half Day) of visiting Hakone Gardens
To truly appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the Japanese Tea Garden, plan to spend at least a few hours exploring its many features. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Morning: Arrival
10:00 AM – Arrival Start your day with a scenic drive to Saratoga. Arrive at Hakone Estate and Gardens right as it opens to enjoy the garden in the peaceful morning light. The garden’s early hours are the perfect time to experience its serenity before more visitors arrive.
10:15 AM – Main Gate and Bamboo Garden Begin your exploration at the Main Gate, where you’ll be greeted by a beautiful bamboo garden. The tall, whispering bamboo stalks create a calming ambiance, setting the tone for your visit.
10:30 AM – Koi Pond and Moon Bridge Next, make your way to the koi pond, a quintessential feature of any Japanese garden. Watch the colorful koi fish gracefully swim beneath the surface as you cross the charming Moon Bridge. The reflection of the bridge in the water is a picture-perfect sight, so don’t forget your camera!
Mid-Morning: Tea Ceremony
11:00 AM – Tea Ceremony at the Tea House A visit to the Japanese Tea Garden wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a traditional tea ceremony. Held in the authentic Tea House, these ceremonies offer a glimpse into Japanese culture and the art of tea making. Check the schedule in advance and consider reserving your spot, as these ceremonies can fill up quickly.
11:45 AM – Stroll Through the Upper House and Zen Garden After the tea ceremony, head to the Upper House, a replica of a 19th-century Kyoto tea merchant’s house. The surrounding Zen Garden is a place of contemplation, with carefully arranged rocks and raked gravel symbolizing the beauty of nature.
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Picnic Lunch under the Pavilion
12:15 PM – Picnic Lunch at the Garden Pavilion: Pack a picnic lunch and head to the Garden Pavilion, where you can enjoy your meal with a view. The pavilion offers a lovely shaded area to relax and take in the surroundings. If you prefer not to pack a lunch, consider visiting one of the nearby eateries in Saratoga before or after your garden visit.
Early Afternoon: Continued Exploration
1:00 PM – Wisteria Arbor and Lower House After lunch, continue your exploration by visiting the Wisteria Arbor. In spring, the wisteria blossoms create a stunning canopy of purple flowers. The nearby Lower House offers another glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and design.
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1:30 PM – Hill and Pond Garden One of the garden’s highlights is the Hill and Pond Garden. This area features winding paths, stone lanterns, and serene water features. The garden’s design is meant to evoke the feeling of a natural landscape, with each element carefully placed to create a harmonious scene.
Mid-Afternoon: Relax Some More
2:00 PM – Bamboo Garden and Stone Lanterns Take a leisurely stroll through the Bamboo Garden, where you’ll find more stone lanterns and statues. The rustling bamboo leaves and dappled sunlight create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection.
2:30 PM – Meditation at the Dry Landscape Garden End your visit with a moment of meditation at the Dry Landscape Garden, also known as the Karesansui Garden. This rock garden, with its meticulously raked gravel and carefully placed stones, offers a place for contemplation and inner peace.
Must Sees at Hakone Estate and Gardens
- Moon Bridge: This arched bridge, a classic feature in Japanese gardens, is a particularly picturesque spot. Take a moment to appreciate the reflection of the bridge and the surrounding foliage in the water below.
- Bamboo Garden: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bamboo grove, where towering stalks sway gently in the breeze. The rustling sound of the bamboo leaves creates a calming and meditative atmosphere.
- Bonsai Collection: Marvel at the meticulously cared-for bonsai trees, some of which are over 100 years old. These miniature masterpieces are a testament to the art of Japanese horticulture.
- Pagoda: The red pagoda nestled amidst the greenery adds a pop of color and a touch of cultural significance to the landscape.
Beyond the Gardens
- Gift Shop: Browse the selection of unique gifts and souvenirs inspired by Japanese culture. From beautiful ceramics and kimonos to traditional teas and snacks, you’re sure to find something special to take home.
- Tea Ceremony Classes: While Hakone Gardens doesn’t offer tea ceremonies within the gardens themselves, they do offer occasional tea ceremony classes at the Cultural Exchange Center. These classes are a great way to learn about the history and tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony.
Insider Tips
- Pack a Picnic: As mentioned earlier, Hakone Gardens doesn’t have food options within the gardens themselves. So, pack a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. The paths in the gardens can be narrow and sometimes have gravel or stepping stones.
- Go During the Week: If you can, plan your visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds
Bonus Tip: If you have extra time, explore the charming town of Saratoga after your visit to Hakone Gardens. This historic town offers cute shops, delicious restaurants, and a delightful small-town vibe.
