SHINZEN FRIENDSHIP GARDEN
Shinzen Friendship Garden is an independent 501(c) 3 charitable organization and relies on contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations to cover the cost of its operations. Your contributions allow us to deliver on our mission to create and grow a North American Japanese Garden that engages and inspires it’s community.
Events happening at Shinzen Garden!
Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 2:00 pm
Instructor: Master Gardener, Carol Giovacchini
What are native plants? Why should I grow native plants in my garden? Where do I even find native plants and how do I incorporate them into my garden? These are just some of the questions Master Gardener Carol will address during this Learn and Grow session at Shinzen Garden. Join us we explore plants native to the Central Valley and beyond.
Experience a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony at Shinzen Garden
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Shinzen Friendship Garden as we present a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony on Sunday, October 20, 2024. This unique cultural experience offers guests an opportunity to witness the graceful art of tea preparation and savor matcha in a serene setting.
There will be two seatings for the ceremony:
- 11:00 AM
- 2:00 PM
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the elegance and mindfulness of Japanese tradition. Space is limited, so reserve your seat today!
Garden Hours:
OPEN: Wed – Sun: 10am – 5pm
CLOSED: Mon – Tue
Garden Admission*
Under 4yrs: Free
4-14yrs: $1/ea.
15yrs-Adult: $5/ea.
Seniors 62+: $1/ea.
Students: $1/ea.
Family: $7 (2-5 people)
*Woodward Park entry/car/parking: $5; $3 for Seniors; $7 during National Holidays. Credit Cards are accepted.
Please note that Woodward Park has implemented a new parking fee payment system. Parking KIOSKs are located throughout the Woodward Park and Shinzen Garden parking lot.
Learn more HERE
Clark Bonsai Hours
Open Wed-Fri, 10am-1pm & weekends/holidays, 10am-4pm*.
*The bonsai collection is accessible when a docent is present. Please check the exhibit hours at the Shinzen Garden’s main entry gatehouse. Closed during rain, unhealthy air quality, temperatures over 95 degrees, and when docents are unavailable.
If you are planning a visit, you can check to see if we will be open on a specific day by using the Contact Us on the Clark Bonsai Collection page.
The bonsai garden will be closed for a private event on Saturday, October 12 from 1-4pm
Join us on October 19 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM for Art in the Garden, a special event at Shinzen Japanese Garden featuring the incredible talents of local artists from Fresno. Stroll through the peaceful garden pathways as you explore a variety of artistic works, including paintings, photography, sculptures, and more, all inspired by the beauty of nature and the vibrant creativity of our local community.
This event offers visitors a unique opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their creative processes, and purchase original artwork onsite. Whether you’re an art collector, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, Art in the Garden is a perfect way to enjoy both art and nature.
Come support Fresno’s local artists and experience the beauty of Shinzen Garden in a whole new way!
Art in the Garden is included with your paid garden admission.
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a musical journey with the American Bluegrass Band, Ripe for the Pickin’
Formed in 2018, the members of Ripe for the Pickin’ work hard to recreate the original energy and high-lonesome sound of Bluegrass music. They are also know for there fresh mix of more modern classics from musicians like the Grateful Dead, The Eagles and more.
Shinzen Japanese Garden is seeking talented local artists to participate in our upcoming Art in the Garden event on October 19! This is a fantastic opportunity to display your artwork inside the garden, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
We invite painters, photographers, sculptors, and creators of all mediums to apply. Artists will have the chance to display and sell their work onsite, while connecting with art lovers and the local community.
Spots are limited, so don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be part of our Art in the Garden show!
Join us for an immersive hands-on workshop led by Steve DaSilva, a Certified Aesthetic Pruner with over 20 years of experience in shaping and caring for Japanese maples. This workshop will guide participants through the art and techniques of pruning Japanese maples to enhance their natural beauty while promoting healthy growth.
Whether you’re a beginner or have some pruning experience, this workshop will cover the essential principles of aesthetic pruning, including timing, proper tool usage, and techniques to maintain balance and proportion in your trees. Steve’s expert guidance will help you transform your maples into living works of art.
Participants are encouraged to bring photos or questions about their own trees for discussion.