Shinzen Garden

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day - July 19
2025-07-19 08:30 - 12:00 UTC | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
VOLUNTEER SATURDAY ON JULY 19, 2025 HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO HEAT

Join us July 19, 2025 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 preserve the garden’s tranquility and charm. No prior gardening experience is necessary—our team will provide guidance and tools.
Bring your enthusiasm, comfortable clothing, and a spirit of teamwork! Together, we can ensure Shinzen Garden remains a vibrant sanctuary for all to enjoy.
What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes, gloves, water bottle, and a hat.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Seasons of Stories Book Club July Meeting
2025-07-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
JULY BOOK SELECTION
Facing the Mountain: An inspiring Story of Japanese American Patriots in World War II
By Daniel James Brown

In the days and months after Pearl Harbor, the lives of Japanese Americans across the continent and Hawaii were changed forever. In this unforgettable chronicle of war-time America and the battlefields of Europe, Daniel James Brown portrays the journey of Rudy Tokiwa, Fred Shiosaki, and Kats Miho, who volunteered for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and were deployed to France, Germany, and Italy, where they were asked to do the near impossible.
Brown also tells the story of these soldiers’ parents, immigrants who were forced to submit to life in concentration camps on U.S. soil. Woven throughout is the chronicle of Gordon Hirabayashi, one of a cadre of patriotic resisters who stood up against their government in defense of their own rights.
Whether fighting on battlefields or in courtrooms, these were Americans under unprecedented strain, doing what Americans do best—striving, resisting, pushing back, rising up, standing on principle, laying down their lives, and enduring.

Seasons of Stories is a new book club at Shinzen Garden that invites readers to gather in the natural setting of the garden to explore literature inspired by Japanese culture and explore books from Japanese American authors. We will be diving into a thoughtfully selected book each month and enjoy meaningful conversations surrounded by the beauty of the garden. All are welcome—bring your curiosity and love for stories!
Join our online club by scanning the QR Code

Hiroshima and Nagasaki Remembrance Ceremony
2025-08-09 10:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us at Shinzen Garden for the 80th Commemoration Ceremony of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings—a solemn tribute to peace, remembrance, and resilience. Through reflection, music, and community, we honor the lives lost and renew our commitment to a more compassionate world.
All are welcome to share in this moment of unity and hope.

Garden Tour for Toro Nagashi at 10:30 am
2025-08-16 10:30 - 11:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Garden Tour on Saturday, August 16 at 10:30 am. The tour is included with paid garden admission ($5 per adult | $1 per child/senior)

Garden Tour Toro Nagashi at 5:30 pm
2025-08-16 17:30 - 18:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Garden Tour on Saturday, August 16 at 5:30 pm. The tour is included with paid garden admission ($5 per adult | $1 per child/senior)

Toro Nagashi
2025-08-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
In the spirit of the Japanese ceremony Tōrō Nagashi, please join Shinzen Garden for our 40th annual floating lantern celebration on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Traditionally, this Japanese ceremony honors the memory of loved ones. During the festival of Obon, it is believed that ancestors come back to spend time with the living. On the final evening of the festival, paper lanterns are set afloat to accompany the spirits as they depart for another year.
GET YOUR LANTERNS HERE

Seasons of Stories Book Club August 23 Meeting #3
2025-08-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Kuppa Joy at Cedar and Shepard, 8821 N. Cedar, Fresno, 93720, United States
AUGUST 2025 BOOK SELECTION
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
by: Tashikazu Kawaguchi
In a small back alley of Tokyo, there is a café that has been serving carefully brewed coffee for more than one hundred years. Local legend says that this shop offers something else besides coffee–the chance to travel back in time.
Over the course of one summer, four customers visit the café in the hopes of making that journey. But time travel isn’t so simple, and there are rules that must be followed. Most important, the trip can last only as long as it takes for the coffee to get cold.
Prepare to meet four visitors, each of whom is hoping to make use of the cafe’s time-travelling offer in order to: confront the man who left them, receive a letter from their husband whose memory has been taken by Alzheimer’s, see their sister one last time, and meet the daughter they never got the chance to know.
Heartwarming, wistful, mysterious and delightfully quirky, Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s internationally bestselling novel explores the age-old question: What would you change if you could travel back in time?
ORDER THE BOOK HERE

Seasons of Stories is a new book club at Shinzen Garden that invites readers to gather in the natural setting of the garden to explore literature inspired by Japanese culture and explore books from Japanese American authors. We will be diving into a thoughtfully selected book each month and enjoy meaningful conversations surrounded by the beauty of the garden. All are welcome—bring your curiosity and love for stories!
Join our online club by scanning the QR Code

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day - September 20
2025-09-20 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us September 20, 2025 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 preserve the garden’s tranquility and charm. No prior gardening experience is necessary—our team will provide guidance and tools.
Bring your enthusiasm, comfortable clothing, and a spirit of teamwork! Together, we can ensure Shinzen Garden remains a vibrant sanctuary for all to enjoy.
What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes, gloves, water bottle, and a hat.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Seasons of Stories Book Club Sept 20 Meeting #4
2025-09-20 13:00 - 15:00 | CA
SEPTEMBER 2025 BOOK SELECTION

The Miracles of the Namiya General Store
by: Keigo Higashino

From exactly midnight until daybreak, the Namiya General Store advice box will be reopening for one night only. When three delinquents hole up in an abandoned general store after their most recent robbery, to their great surprise, a letter drops through the mail slot in the store’s shutter.
This seemingly simple request for advice sets the trio on a journey of discovery as, over the course of a single night, they step into the role of the kindhearted former shopkeeper who devoted his waning years to offering thoughtful counsel to his correspondents.
Through the lens of time, they share insight with those seeking guidance, and by morning, none of their lives will ever be the same.
By acclaimed author Keigo Higashino, The Miracles of the Namiya General Store is a work that has touched the hearts of readers around the world.

ORDER THE BOOK HERE

Seasons of Stories is a new book club at Shinzen Garden that invites readers to gather in the natural setting of the garden to explore literature inspired by Japanese culture and explore books from Japanese American authors. We will be diving into a thoughtfully selected book each month and enjoy meaningful conversations surrounded by the beauty of the garden. All are welcome—bring your curiosity and love for stories!
Join our online club by scanning the QR Code

Fresno Koi Show
2025-09-27 09:00 - 2025-09-28 15:00 | Woodward Park, Activities Area, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720
Fresno Koi Show hosted by the Central California Koi Society
September 27 & 28, 2025 inside the Woodward Park Group Activities Area
The Fresno Koi Show is one of the longest-running events of its kind in the Nation. Local and out-of-area hobbyists and enthusiasts exhibit their prized koi fish and share their passion and knowledge with the public. The koi fish exhibited in competition at the Fresno Koi Show range in size from about 6 to 36 inches long and can be of superb quality. Hundreds of koi fish will be for sale at the Fresno Koi Show from local and state vendors. Many koi are imported directly from top breeders in Japan.
Vendors will offer koi food and products, art, unique home décor, gift items, and local food trucks with food available for purchase. Koi and non-koi related items will also be raffled or available for bidding in a silent auction.
With over 1,500 people in attendance each year, this highly anticipated and fun event is the only fundraiser hosted by CCKS each year. Proceeds are used to host the show and to continue the centuries of tradition, art, and culture of koi and pond keeping flourishing in our community.
Learn More at CenCalKoi.com

Flowering Fins: Painting Koi in Watercolor Class
2025-09-27 10:30 - 12:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Dive into the graceful beauty of koi fish with Flowering Fins: Painting Koi in Watercolor, an inspiring watercolor workshop as we explore the graceful beauty of koi fish!
In this two-hour class, you’ll explore the fluid nature of watercolor as you bring these graceful fish to life. Led by talented local artist Noelle Correia, this class will guide you through the process of capturing the flowing fins, vibrant colors, and delicate movement of these symbolic fish.
Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this workshop will cover essential watercolor techniques, including layering, blending, and creating fluid, organic shapes. We’ll also explore composition and the symbolic meanings of koi, adding depth to your artistic expression.
Come relax, paint, and immerse yourself in the tranquil world of koi. All materials will be provided—just bring your creativity!
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
$35 for Member | $45 for Non-members | For ages 15+

Akifuku Sentei Fall Thinning of Pines
2025-10-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
As the seasons change, so do the needs of your pine trees. Join us for Akifuku Sentei (秋ふく剪定), a specialized workshop on the fall thinning of pines, where you’ll learn how to selectively remove needles and small branches to improve airflow, reduce disease risk, and enhance branch structure for future growth.

Garden Views: Landscape Photography
2025-10-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Discover the art of capturing breathtaking garden landscapes in our Garden Views: Landscape Photography workshop. Perfect for beginners to seasoned pros, this hands-on class at Shinzen Garden will focus on capturing the expansive beauty of garden landscapes, pathways, bridges, and architectural elements. Led by the pros at Horn Photo, you’ll learn wide-angle composition, how to create depth, manage light, and tell stories through scenery, all with expert guidance to elevate your photography skills.
Meet Your Instructor: Mr. Doug Morgan
Doug Morgan has been photographing a variety of genres over the past 20 years. In
2010 he opened a studio in downtown Clovis to support a growing wedding/portrait
photography business.
About 10 years ago he transferred focus to architecture/design
photography. That allowed more time for landscape photography around the world. He
has taught classes in each of the photography genres to individuals/groups interested in
advancing their skills.
Follow him on Instagram: dougmorgan7.
View his work: morganjamesphotography.net

Ink and Petals Creative Writing Workshop
2025-10-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Open to writers of all levels, this workshop will encourage creative expression through short stories, personal essays, and poetic musings. Using Shinzen Garden’s natural beauty as inspiration, participants will develop their voices and craft compelling narratives.

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day - October 18
2025-10-18 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us October 18, 2025 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 preserve the garden’s tranquility and charm. No prior gardening experience is necessary—our team will provide guidance and tools.
Bring your enthusiasm, comfortable clothing, and a spirit of teamwork! Together, we can ensure Shinzen Garden remains a vibrant sanctuary for all to enjoy.
What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes, gloves, water bottle, and a hat.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Falling for Watercolor
2025-10-18 10:30 - 12:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Capture the beauty of autumn in our “Falling for Watercolor” class at Shinzen Garden on Saturday, October 18th. Surrounded by vibrant seasonal colors, you’ll learn techniques for blending warm tones and painting the vibrant landscapes of fall. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced painter, this class offers a relaxing and inspiring way to embrace the season. All supplies are provided—just bring your creativity and enjoy an afternoon of art in the garden.

Seasons of Stories Book Club October Meeting
2025-10-18 13:00 - 15:00 | CA
OCTOBER 2025 BOOK SELECTION

Epitaph for a Peach
by: David Mas Masumoto
A lyrical, sensuous and thoroughly engrossing memoir of one critical year in the life of an organic peach farmer, Epitaph for a Peach is “a delightful narrative…with poetic flair and a sense of humor” (Library Journal).
David Mas Masumoto is a third-generation farmer, David Mas Masumoto grows peaches, nectarines, grapes and raisins on an organic 80 acre farm south of Fresno, California. Masumoto is currently a columnist for and The Fresno Bee and a regular contributor to the Sacramento Bee.
He was a Kellogg Foundation Food and Society Policy Fellow from 2006-2008. His writing awards include Commonwealth Club Silver medal, Julia Child Cookbook award, the James Clavell Literacy Award and a finalist in the James Beard Foundation awards. He received the “Award of Distinction” from UC Davis in 2003 and the California Central Valley “Excellence in Business” Award in 2007. He has served as chair of the California Council for the Humanities.
He is currently a board member of the James Irvine Foundation and serves on the Statewide Leadership Council to the Public Policy Institute of California. In 2013 he also joined the National Council on the Arts through an appointment by President Obama.
Masumoto is married to Marcy Masumoto, Ed.d., and they have a daughter, Nikiko, and a son, Korio.

ORDER THE BOOK HERE

Seasons of Stories is a new book club at Shinzen Garden that invites readers to gather in the natural setting of the garden to explore literature inspired by Japanese culture and explore books from Japanese American authors. We will be diving into a thoughtfully selected book each month and enjoy meaningful conversations surrounded by the beauty of the garden. All are welcome—bring your curiosity and love for stories!
Join our online club by scanning the QR Code

Seasons of Verse - October Poetry Series
2025-10-18 15:00 - 17:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
RESCHEDULED TO NOVEMBER 15, 2025
Seasons of Verse is a curated poetry reading series held inside the peaceful landscape of Shinzen Garden, featuring four unique events that align with the rhythm of the seasons. The series will showcase the vibrant voices of Fresno-area poets and offer one open mic event to welcome emerging and community writers.
Included with Garden Admission

Tea Ceremony Demonstration 11:00 am on Oct 19
2025-10-19 11:00 - 12:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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, October 19, 2025 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 setting.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the elegance and mindfulness of Japanese tradition. Space is limited, so reserve your seat today!
Ticket holders are invited to observe the peace and quietude of this traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony and enjoy a cup of green tea and a Japanese sweet.
*THIS TICKET IS FOR THE 11:00 am DEMONSTRATION
The tea ceremony (called cha-no-yu, sadō, or chadō in Japanese) incorporates strict etiquette, which serves as the foundation of its choreographed movements and gives the experience its overall form and aesthetic. Participants are meant to involve all of the senses and experience a serene feeling of spiritual discipline, harmony and tranquility. There are many schools of tea ceremony, but here at Shinzen Garden, guests will experience the Omote-Senke style. The Omote-Senke school is one of three san-senke schools whose founding tea master is Sen no Rikyū. Each school has subtle stylistic differences and varying techniques, but the Omote-Senke school is distinguished by its tea whisking style and the thin foam created by this technique.
Our tea ceremony will be performed by Terumi Takahashi, trained by the School of Omeote-Senke in Kyoto, Japan.

Tea Ceremony Demonstration 1:30 pm on Oct 19
2025-10-19 13:30 - 14:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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, October 19, 2025 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 setting.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the elegance and mindfulness of Japanese tradition. Space is limited, so reserve your seat today!
Ticket holders are invited to observe the peace and quietude of this traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony and enjoy a cup of green tea and a Japanese sweet.
*THIS TICKET IS FOR THE 1:30 PM DEMONSTRATION
The tea ceremony (called cha-no-yu, sadō, or chadō in Japanese) incorporates strict etiquette, which serves as the foundation of its choreographed movements and gives the experience its overall form and aesthetic. Participants are meant to involve all of the senses and experience a serene feeling of spiritual discipline, harmony and tranquility. There are many schools of tea ceremony, but here at Shinzen Garden, guests will experience the Omote-Senke style. The Omote-Senke school is one of three san-senke schools whose founding tea master is Sen no Rikyū. Each school has subtle stylistic differences and varying techniques, but the Omote-Senke school is distinguished by its tea whisking style and the thin foam created by this technique.
Our tea ceremony will be performed by Terumi Takahashi, trained by the School of Omeote-Senke in Kyoto, Japan.

Golden Fields and Falling Leaves Watercolor Class
2025-10-25 10:30 - 12:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Immerse yourself in the golden hues of autumn during “Golden Fields and Falling Leaves”, a watercolor class at Shinzen Garden. This workshop will guide you in capturing the warm tones, soft textures, and graceful movement of fall foliage through brush and watercolor techniques. Surrounded by the garden’s natural beauty, participants will find inspiration in the seasonal landscape while learning to create their own autumn-inspired masterpiece. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists, this class offers a peaceful and creative way to celebrate the changing season.

Canon Creator VIP Experience
2025-11-01 10:30 - 12:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Let’s Create with Canon!
We’re so excited — Canon is bringing 80 camera and lens combos for people to use during the workshop! It’s the perfect chance to explore new gear, learn, and have fun shooting together.
New to photography and content creation? Join Canon Creator Nathan Lee Allen as he shares his journey of content creation and encourages you to embrace photography and bring your imaginative concepts to life. You’ll learn his tips and tricks for posing angles and framing, what to look for to capture creative contents, and setting up your camera gear to get the best shots! If you’re a beginner and want to learn more about the world of content creation, this is the event for you. Nathan will be there to guide you along the way. So, Let’s Create with Canon! They bring the gear, you bring the talent. You will also have the opportunity to showcase your new skills by entering the Creator’s Challenge. Three winners will be selected after the event to win exciting prizes including a grand prize of the new EOS Canon R50 V lens kit! See store for complete details. Space is limited. Hurry and register today for this fun content creation workshop.
Limited to 35 participants for an intimate, hands-on session. Every attendee gets a $45 Horn Photo Gift Card (must be picked up at Horn Photo by 12/1/2025)
Meet Nathan Allen –
Nathan Allen is a professional outdoor, travel, and adventure photographer, videographer, and content creator originally from Louisville, Kentucky, now living in Lexington, Kentucky. Nathan is passionate about three things in the industry: Creating beautiful, valuable content, building strong relationships, and inspiring others to “Get Busy Living,” every day. Throughout his 7-year career, Nathan has worked with some of the largest brands in the world and grown a deep relationship with Canon USA as a Canon Creator—a dream partnership for him, stemming back to when he first picked up a Canon Rebel T1 camera and started learning photography in high school back in 2010. Be sure to follow Nathan’s socials

Momiji-zukuri: Pruning Japanese Maples
2025-11-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Discover the art of Momiji-zukuri, the refined technique of pruning Japanese maples, in this hands-on workshop led by Certified Aesthetic Pruner Steve DaSilva. With over 20 years of experience, Steve will guide participants in shaping these iconic trees to enhance their natural elegance, structure, and seasonal beauty.
Learn the essential techniques of branch selection, thinning, and directional pruning to create graceful, airy canopies that highlight the tree’s vibrant foliage. Through live demonstrations and hands-on practice, attendees will gain the skills needed to maintain healthy, beautifully sculpted Japanese maples in their own gardens.
This workshop is perfect for garden enthusiasts and professionals alike. Space is limited—reserve your spot today!
$25 for Members | $45 for Non-members

Autumn Hues Watercolor Class
2025-11-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Celebrate the colors of the season with “Autumn Hues”, a watercolor class at Shinzen Garden on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Surrounded by the rich reds, golds, and oranges of fall, you’ll explore techniques for blending seasonal shades and capturing the beauty of the garden’s autumn landscape. This workshop is perfect for both beginners and experienced painters who want to relax, learn, and create in a serene setting. All supplies are included—just bring your inspiration and enjoy an afternoon of art in the garden.
Pre-registration is required

Canon Creator Main Event
2025-11-01 14:30 - 16:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Let’s Create with Canon!
FREE EVENT WITH PAID GARDEN ADMISSION
We’re so excited — Canon is bringing 80 camera and lens combos for people to use during the workshop! It’s the perfect chance to explore new gear, learn, and have fun shooting together.
New to photography and content creation? Join Canon Creator Nathan Lee Allen as he shares his journey of content creation and encourages you to embrace photography and bring your imaginative concepts to life. You’ll learn his tips and tricks for posing angles and framing, what to look for to capture creative contents, and setting up your camera gear to get the best shots! If you’re a beginner and want to learn more about the world of content creation, this is the event for you. Nathan will be there to guide you along the way.
So, Let’s Create with Canon! They bring the gear, you bring the talent. You will also have the opportunity to showcase your new skills by entering the Creator’s Challenge. Space is limited. Hurry and register today for this fun content creation workshop.

Sweater Weather Watercolor Class
2025-11-08 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Cozy up with creativity at “Sweater Weather”, a watercolor class at Shinzen Garden on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This workshop embraces the crisp air and warm tones of autumn, guiding you in painting seasonal scenes inspired by the garden’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time painter or a seasoned artist, you’ll enjoy a relaxing afternoon filled with color, creativity, and fall charm. All supplies are provided—just bring your imagination and a cozy spirit!
Pre-registration is required

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day - November 15
2025-11-15 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us November 15, 2025 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 preserve the garden’s tranquility and charm. No prior gardening experience is necessary—our team will provide guidance and tools.
Bring your enthusiasm, comfortable clothing, and a spirit of teamwork! Together, we can ensure Shinzen Garden remains a vibrant sanctuary for all to enjoy.
What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes, gloves, water bottle, and a hat.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Seasons of Verse - November Poetry Series
2025-11-15 15:00 - 17:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER. NEW DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON
Seasons of Verse is a curated poetry reading series held inside the peaceful landscape of Shinzen Garden, featuring four unique events that align with the rhythm of the seasons. The series will showcase the vibrant voices of Fresno-area poets and offer one open mic event to welcome emerging and community writers.
Included with Garden Admission

Autumn Color Viewing
2025-11-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
We invite you to experience the breathtaking beauty of Shinzen Garden’s fall colors. Enjoy a peaceful stroll among the Japanese maples with a warm cup of tea and a traditional Japanese rice cracker during our Autumn Color viewing.
Sunday, November 23, 2025
10:00 am – Noon
This event is included with paid garden admission. Garden admission is $5 per adult and $1 per child

Where Cultures Meet in Nature
2026-01-15 17:30 - 18:30 | Virtual
Where Culture Meet in Nature: The Story of Japanese Gardens in the West
REGISTER FOR THIS WEBINAR HERE
Why have Japanese gardens captured the imagination of Western audiences for centuries? Why is our present moment a pivotal juncture in the story of the growth and evolution of Japanese gardens?
Join Professor Kendall Brown (California State University Long Beach) and Garden Curator Hugo Torii for a conversation about the forces that have shaped the story of Japanese gardens from their origins in Japan to their present popularity in diverse communities around the world. This timely webinar, presented in the final months of our current exhibition Designing Nature: Elements of Harmony, will offer a deeper look at the point where the exhibition leaves off, continuing the fascinating story of Japanese garden design evolution with the globalization of Japanese gardens through the World Fairs, the migration of Japanese horticulturalists to America, and taking a look at where we find ourselves in the present during an exciting moment in Garden design history. As Portland Japanese Garden enters 2026 and the 63rd anniversary of its founding, this history is interwoven with the fabric of the Garden and momentous developments to come as we continue to inspire harmony and peace.
For long-time garden enthusiasts as well as those curious to take the first step down this fascinating and unfolding story, don’t miss this conversation between garden experts at the intersection of nature, culture, and art.
Speakers
Professor Kendall Brown

Kendall Brown is Emeritus Professor of Asian Art History at California State University Long Beach. A Japanese art historian, he publishes actively in several areas of Japanese art. He has also organized exhibitions for several American museums on topics from modern woodblock prints to Art Deco. Most recent was “Songs for Modern Japan” on sheet music cover illustration, for the MFA Boston in 2024. As a garden historian, he pioneered the study of Japanese gardens in North America, publishing books and academic articles on the subject as well as co-founding the North American Japanese Garden Association.

Hugo Torii

Hugo Torii is the Garden Curator at Portland Japanese Garden, making him the 10th to take on this critical role since the Garden opened in 1967. As Garden Curator, Torii helps to keep Portland Japanese Garden true to its original intent and design, while also allowing it to grow and evolve. Torii oversees a team of gardeners and is actively involved in the process of all Garden maintenance, keeping in mind the short term needs as well as longer term implications.

Moderator
Aki Nakanishi

Aki Nakanishi is an international cultural leader with nearly three decades of experience in government relations, cultural programming, and artistic exchange. He currently serves as Director of Japan Institute and the Arlene Schnitzer Curator of Culture, Art, and Education, where he guides the organization’s cultural vision, global partnerships, and multidisciplinary initiatives.
In his current capacity at the Garden, Nakanishi has led more than one thousand programmatic initiatives that advanced the organization’s stature as a leading force in cultural diplomacy. These initiatives encompassed art exhibitions, seasonal festivals, cultural demonstrations, workshops, seminars, lectures, concerts, international conferences, and culinary programs. Through a strategic approach that bridged local and international engagement, he strengthened the Garden’s network of partners and supporters across Japan and the United States, helping to elevate Portland’s profile on both sides of the Pacific, a city he and his family now proudly call home.
Nakanishi holds a master’s degree in Cultural Policy from the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (Japan) and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Cambridge (UK), where he conducts research into medieval Japanese cultural networks.
Thank you to the generous sponsors of this event, The James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, Toshiba International Foundation, and North American Japanese Garden Association.
