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!

free garden tour at shinzen garden on march 22
Niwazukuri

Shinzen Friendship Garden is looking for a skilled Ikebana (Japanese floral arrangement) instructor to share the beauty and artistry of this timeless tradition with our community! If you have experience in Ikebana and a passion for teaching, we’d love to hear from you.

Niwazukuri

The Art of Japanese Garden Pruning

Discover the timeless techniques of Japanese garden pruning in this hands-on workshop led by Steve DaSilva, a Certified Aesthetic Pruner with over 20 years of experience.

Participants will learn the fundamental principles of Niwa-zukuri (Japanese garden design) and the specialized pruning methods used to maintain the harmony, balance, and natural beauty of Japanese landscapes. Through guided instruction and live demonstrations, attendees will gain insight into selective pruning, branch structure, and seasonal care to enhance the health and artistry of their own gardens.

Pre-registration is required.

Garden Hours:

OPEN: Wed – Sun: 10am – 5pm
CLOSED: Monday and Tuesday

 

 

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 Parking: $5; $3 for Seniors; $7 during National Holidays. Credit Cards are accepted.

Clark Bonsai Hours

Open Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm*.

*When temperatures exceed 95 degrees, the bonsai collection hours are 10am -1pm. Unfortunately, the bonsai museum will be closed when it’s raining, the air quality is considered unhealthy for all groups or when docents are unavailable.

 

Please Contact Us to confirm the museum hours or request an appointment to tour the museum outside of the posted hours.

 

APRIL EVENTS AT SHINZEN GARDEN

intro to japanese language class at shinzen garden in april 2025

Introduction to Japanese

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Japanese language in the serene setting of Shinzen Garden! This beginner-friendly class will introduce you to essential Japanese phrases, pronunciation, and basic writing systems. Whether you’re interested in travel, culture, or simply expanding your language skills, this class provides a fun and engaging way to get started.

No prior language experience needed!

This is a 2-week course and will occur on April 8, 10, 15 & 17 at 3:00 pm. 

sip and sculpt workshop at shinzen garden on april 13

Sip & Sculpt Clay Workshop

Unwind in the tranquil beauty of Shinzen Garden with our Sip & Sculpt experience! Enjoy a soothing cup of green tea while tapping into your creativity to craft a clay sculpture inspired by nature and Japanese art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this relaxing and hands-on workshop is the perfect way to express yourself in a serene setting.

In this 2-hour hand-building workshop, you’ll learn essential techniques to shape and create your own unique clay vessel—your final design is up to you! Guided by Paige from PMIllustrations, you’ll explore form and craftsmanship in a fun, hands-on experience.

tea ceremony demonstration at shinzen garden on april 27 at 11 am

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration

Experience a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony at Shinzen Garden

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Shinzen Garden as we present a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This unique cultural experience offers guests an opportunity to witness the graceful art of tea preparation and savor matcha in a serene setting.

become a member of shinzen garden

Become a Member of the Garden

Members are the heart of Shinzen Friendship Garden, sharing their talents, gifts, and energy to support this historic landmark and unique environment in Fresno.

A membership to Shinzen Friendship Garden supports the 5-acre garden with its unique landscape and architectural features, the exquisite Clark Bonsai Collection, and programs and festivals promoting Japanese art and culture in the Central Valley.

8 Japanese Gardens to Visit Across the West

See other beautiful and serene gardens!

Garden Design

Learn more about Shinzen Friendship Garden and Clark Bonsai Collection with our Education Modules!

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Shinzen Garden Educational Programs are funded in part by the City of Fresno Measure P Expanded Access to Arts and Culture Fund administered by the Fresno Arts Council.
bertha and john garabedian charitable foundation
Kimiko Schock 2024 educational programs Sponsor at Shinzen Garden
kuppa joy coffee house
bonsai collection at shinzen garden