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!

music in the garden back to the bow string ensemble

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a musical journey with our local string ensemble, “Back to the Bow”.

Let Back to the Bow string ensemble delight you with classical music and Japanese folk songs. For 21 years Back to the Bow has performed for audiences at Retirement Homes, Veteran’s and Valley Children’s Hospitals, the Stone Fruit Festival, UCP, church services and many other special events.

learn and grow session converting your lawn into a meadow

Instructor: Master Gardener, Tim Sullivan

In this session, you will learn how to convert your traditional lawn into a beautiful meadow that over time, will attract pollinators, use less water and require less maintenance and cost. Native grasses and wildflowers will be chatted about learn how to bring some of the native beauty of the Central Valley to your home garden.

Garden Hours:

OPEN: Wed – Sun: 10am – 7pm
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.

Due to the Excessive Heat conditions in Fresno when extended outdoor exposure poses a health risk to our volunteers, the Clark Bonsai Collection bonsai garden will be closed to the public during the regular garden hours. We will do our best to be open in the morning from 10am-12pm when possible.

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.

learn and grow session creating colorful drought tolerant waterwise gardening
Instructor: Master Gardener, Charlie Hindes

Enjoy the benefits of color and texture in your drought-tolerant and waterwise garden throughout the year. Master Gardener, Charlie Hindes will present beneficial information on developing and maintaining a drought – tolerant and waterwise garden.

cherry blossoms and koi cookie decorating class
Instructor: Brandi with Brandy Cakes Desserts

Unleash your creativity and enjoy a delightful morning at Shinzen Garden with our Cherry Blossoms & Koi Cookie decorating class. On Saturday, September 28th, from 10:00 am to noon., immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the garden while learning to decorate cookies inspired by Japanese culture.

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

Kimiko Schock 2024 educational programs Sponsor at Shinzen Garden
bertha and john garabedian charitable foundation