MARCH 2026 BOOK SELECTION Ms. Ice Sandwich by: Mieko Kawakami In her English language debut, “ceaselessly growing and evolving”novelist Mieko Kawakami renders an adolsecent voice with laser precision (Haruki Murakami). “Ms Ice Sandwich” is a name I made up, of course. I thought of it the minute I first saw her. Ms Ice Sandwich’s […]
Whispers of the Garden: Finding Inspiration to Let Your Writing Bloom Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Shinzen Garden, this writing workshop invites participants to slow down, observe, and reconnect with their creative voice. Just as gardens grow through patience and care, meaningful writing often begins with quiet moments of reflection and inspiration. In this […]
San Diego Regional Workshop – Presented by NAJGA Join the North American Japanese Garden Association (NAJGA) for a three-day immersive learning experience celebrating the beauty, artistry, and craftsmanship of Japanese gardens. Held April 15–17, 2026 at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum in San Diego, this regional workshop brings together garden professionals, enthusiasts, and learners […]
Join us Saturday, April 18, 2026 for a rewarding Volunteer Day at Shinzen Garden! This hands-on event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, meet like-minded community members, and contribute to the care and maintenance of this beautiful space. Volunteers assist with tasks such as weeding, pruning, planting, and other seasonal projects that help […]
Slow down, look closely, and let nature guide your brush. In this botanical watercolor class at Shinzen Garden on April 18, 2026, participants will explore the delicate beauty of leaves, flowers, and seasonal plant life while learning foundational watercolor techniques in a serene garden setting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this class […]
APRIL 2026 BOOK SELECTION The Setting Sun by: Osamu Dazai Set in the early postwar years, it probes the destructive effects of war and the transition from a feudal Japan to an industrial society. Ozamu Dazai died, a suicide, in 1948. But the influence of his book has made "people of the setting sun" a […]
The Way of Matcha: The Art & Culture of Japanese Matcha Discover the beauty, tradition, and cultural significance of matcha in this immersive workshop at Shinzen Garden. Rooted in centuries of Japanese tea culture, matcha represents more than just a beverage—it is a symbol of mindfulness, harmony, respect, and tranquility. In this hands-on experience, participants […]
Capture the beauty of Shinzen Garden while learning the fundamentals of photography in this engaging Photography 101 workshop. Designed for beginners, this hands-on class will introduce you to essential camera settings, composition techniques, and how to use light to create stunning images. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or simply want to better understand […]
Join us for a free docent-led tour on select Sundays, providing visitors with 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 […]
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 […]
Join us Saturday, May 16, 2026 for a rewarding Volunteer Day at Shinzen Garden! This hands-on event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, meet like-minded community members, and contribute to the care and maintenance of this beautiful space. Volunteers assist with tasks such as weeding, pruning, planting, and other seasonal projects that help […]
Slow down, look closely, and let nature guide your brush. In this botanical watercolor class at Shinzen Garden on May 16, 2026, participants will explore the delicate beauty of leaves, flowers, and seasonal plant life while learning foundational watercolor techniques in a serene garden setting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this class […]
MAY 2026 BOOK SELECTION Heaven by: Mieko Kawakami With profound tenderness and sensitivity, Japanese literary superstar Mieko Kawakami turns her unique gaze onto the causes and effects of violence. Raw but revelatory, this novel stands as a dazzling confirmation of Kawakami's standing as one of her country's most insightful and compelling novelists. In Heaven, […]
Petals to Pages: Journal & Mindful Writing Slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with your thoughts through the calming practice of mindful journaling. Set within the peaceful surroundings of Shinzen Garden, this workshop invites participants to explore writing as a tool for reflection, creativity, and personal awareness. Through guided prompts and gentle mindfulness exercises, participants […]
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, May 17, 2026 at 11:00 am. This unique cultural experience offers guests an opportunity to witness the graceful art of tea preparation and savor matcha in a serene […]
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, May 17, 2026 at 1:30 pm. This unique cultural experience offers guests an opportunity to witness the graceful art of tea preparation and savor matcha in a serene […]
Join us for a free docent-led tour on select Sundays, providing visitors with 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 […]
Japan’s Metalcraft Superstars: Ten Master Artists Presented by Japan Society of Northern California *Online Program Drawn from 2,300 years of Japan’s rich metalworking heritage, today’s leading metal artists are redefining tradition for the 21st century. Join us for an online Zoom presentation by Steve Beimel of JapanCraft21, which will explore remarkable casting and forging techniques […]
Seikichi Izumi X, the sole inheritor of the 370 years of Urushi Lacquer brushi making ONLINE PRESENTATION This online lecture centers on the craft of urushi brush making, presented by Seikichi Izumi X, a lacquer brush artisan from a lineage dating back to the 17th century. For over 370 years since Seki Izumi I, he […]
Interested in learning Japanese for travel, cultural exploration, or everyday conversation? This beginner-friendly course is designed for students with little to no prior Japanese experience and focuses on practical phrases and real-life communication skills. Participants will learn essential greetings, introductions, common questions, dining phrases, travel vocabulary, shopping expressions, and everyday conversational basics that can be […]
Step into the rich cultural world of the kimono in this engaging and educational workshop exploring the history, symbolism, and artistry of Japan’s most iconic garment. The Art of the Kimono: Tradition, Symbolism & Style will guide attendees through the evolution of the kimono from traditional court attire to a lasting symbol of Japanese culture […]
Join us Saturday, June 20, 2026 for a rewarding Volunteer Day at Shinzen Garden! This hands-on event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, meet like-minded community members, and contribute to the care and maintenance of this beautiful space. Volunteers assist with tasks such as weeding, pruning, planting, and other seasonal projects that help […]
Bring color, movement, and a touch of elegance to your painting practice in this botanical watercolor class inspired by the peacocks of Shinzen Garden on June 20, 2026. Guided by an instructor, participants will learn watercolor techniques while capturing the iridescent feathers, graceful forms, and natural surroundings of these iconic birds. Designed for all skill […]
JUNE 2026 BOOK SELECTION The Guest Cat by: Takashi Hiraide A bestseller in France and winner of Japan's Kiyama Shohei Literary Award, The Guest Cat, by the acclaimed poet Takashi Hiraide, is a subtly moving and exceptionally beautiful novel about the transient nature of life and idiosyncratic but deeply felt ways of living. A […]
Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Blumes and Tea, a delightful workshop held in the serene setting of Shinzen Garden. Registered attendees will enjoy sipping traditional Japanese tea while learning to create a fresh, seasonal floral bouquet inspired by the garden’s natural elegance. Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll explore balance, color, and […]