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!
Art in the Garden
Due to the extreme heat forecasted for this Saturday, we’ve made the decision to postpone the event to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests, artists, and volunteers.
We’re excited to announce that the new date for Art in the Garden will be Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Shinzen Garden.
Garden Hours:
OPEN: Wed – Sun: 10am – 7pm
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.
JUNE EVENTS AND PROGRAMS
PINE DECANDLING WORKSHOP
Discover the traditional technique of Matsu no Mekaki (pine tree decandling) in this hands-on workshop led by Certified Aesthetic Pruner, Steve DaSilva. This workshop is designed to help you refine and shape pines for health and beauty. Decandling, or selectively removing spring candles, is a crucial practice for controlling growth, encouraging back budding, and achieving a balanced, compact form.
Creative Writing Workshop
Whispers of the Bamboo: Reflective Writing Workshop
This creative writing workshop will focus on journaling, memoir writing and mindfulness-based storytelling. Participants will engage in guided reflections and writing exercises to deepen their connection with nature and their personal experiences.
Suitable for ages 12+
Free Garden Tours
Join us for a free docent-led tour on Saturday, June 14 at either 10:00 am or 5:00 pm. These docent-led garden tours gives visitors an in-depth exploration of its serene landscapes and cultural significance. During the tour, our knowledgeable docents guide guests through the garden’s features, including the Clark Bonsai Collection, stroll gardens, traditional architecture, and tea houses, offering insights into Japanese culture and garden design.
The tours are approximately 1.5 hours long and free to the public with paid garden entry.
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.