SHINZEN 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!
Seasons of the Page: Non-Fiction Writing
Every story has a season. In this engaging writing workshop at Shinzen Garden, participants will explore the art of non-fiction writing—learning how to transform personal experiences, observations, and real-life moments into compelling narratives.
Inspired by the changing seasons and quiet beauty of the garden, this workshop will guide writers through techniques used in memoir, personal essays, and reflective storytelling. Through thoughtful prompts and guided exercises, participants will learn how to find meaningful stories in everyday life, shape them with clarity and voice, and bring authenticity to the page.
Writers of all experience levels are welcome. Whether you are interested in journaling, memoir writing, personal essays, or simply exploring true stories from your own life, this workshop provides a supportive environment to develop ideas, experiment with narrative structure, and deepen your writing practice.
Join us for an inspiring session where the rhythms of nature help spark reflection, creativity, and the stories waiting to be written.
Step into the garden and discover the calming art of Kokedama, the Japanese technique of creating living “moss balls” that blend nature and design. In this hands-on workshop at Shinzen Garden, you’ll learn how to shape, plant, and wrap your own kokedama while enjoying the serene beauty of the garden around you. Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll create a unique, low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for displaying in your home or gifting to someone special. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a peaceful, creative escape—and a beautiful piece to take home.
Garden Hours:
OPEN: Wed – Sun: 10am – 7pm*
CLOSED: Monday and Tuesday
*Last entry at 6:45 pm
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 Museum Hours
Open Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm*
*When temperatures exceed 95 degrees, the bonsai collection hours are 10am -1pm Wednesday – Sunday. Unfortunately, the bonsai museum will be closed during heavy rains or when air quality is deemed unhealthy for all groups.
Please Clark Bonsai Museum to confirm the museum hours or request an appointment to tour the museum outside of the posted hours.
UPCOMING EVENTS & CLASSES AT THE 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
