Shinzen Garden

The Art Lover's Guide to Japanese Museums
2026-02-17 13:00 - 14:30 UTC | Virtual
VIRTUAL EVENT
Japan is a country of museums. There are more than 1,200 art museums yet this fact is often little known outside its borders. They are sprinkled throughout Japan and their range is striking. Museums are a fascinating gateway into Japanese culture, whether traditional or contemporary, but foreign visitors are often bewildered by their quantity and variety. With only a few that offer information in English, a guidebook is indispensable.
​The Art Lover’s Guide to Japanese Museums acts as a personal guide, introducing readers to some of the most distinctive and inspiring art museums in the country. Visiting close to 200 venues nationwide, Sophie Richard conducted in-depth interviews with museum curators and directors, which provides an unrivalled insight into the world of Japanese museums. The vibrant, richly illustrated guide showcases public and private museums selected for the strength of their collection and their individuality, as well as pointers to further local attractions. Among them are sites that have survived earthquakes and wars, beautifully maintained estates turned into museums, sleek examples of contemporary architecture… Some are smaller than others but all are worth a visit.
​Join the Japan Society of Northern California for a discussion with author Sophie Richard about her guide to Japanese museums.
FREE – VIRTUAL EVENT
REGISTER HERE

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day Feb 21
2026-02-21 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us February 21, 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 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 Feb Meeting
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
FEBRUARY 2026 BOOK SELECTION

The Sailor Who Fell From Grace with the Sea
by: Hiro Arikawa
Thirteen-year-old Noboru is a member of a gang of highly philosophical teenage boys who reject the tenets of the adult world — to them, adult life is illusory, hypocritical, and sentimental. When Noboru’s widowed mother is romanced by Ryuji, a sailor, Noboru is thrilled. He idolizes this rugged man of the sea as a hero. But his admiration soon turns to hatred, as Ryuji forsakes life onboard the ship for marriage, rejecting everything Noboru holds sacred. Upset and appalled, he and his friends respond to this apparent betrayal with a terrible ferocity.

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

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration
2026-03-08 11:00 - 12:00 | 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, March 8, 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 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.

Each registration directly supports the care, preservation, and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden, helping this special place continue to thrive.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration 1:30 Seating
2026-03-08 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, March 8, 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 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.

Each registration directly supports the care, preservation, and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden, helping this special place continue to thrive.

Haiku and Harmony Poetry Workshop
2026-03-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Explore the art of haiku and nature-inspired poetry while learning traditional Japanese forms. Through guided exercises and observation of the seasonal beauty of Shinzen Garden, attendees will craft their own haiku and short-form poetry.

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day March 21
2026-03-21 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us March 21, 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 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!

Soundbath at the Garden
2026-03-21 09:00 - 10:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Unwind beneath the open sky with a deeply restorative Sound Bath set within the tranquil beauty of Shinzen Garden. Surrounded by nature, you’ll be guided through a meditative experience using soothing tones and gentle vibrations designed to calm the mind, relax the body, and restore balance. As the sounds wash over you, stress melts away and a sense of deep peace takes its place. This is an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with yourself and the serenity of the garden.
Pre-registration is required.
Please bring a yoga mat or blanket and a pillow to participate.

Meet the Instructor: Sounds of the Light
Each registration directly supports the care, preservation, and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden, helping this special place continue to thrive.

Seasons of Stories Book Club March Meeting
2026-03-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 eyelids are always painted with a thick layer of a kind of electric blue, exactly the same colour as those hard ice lollies that have been sitting in our freezer since last summer.
A young boy returns obsessively to a supermarket sandwich counter, entranced by the beauty of the woman who works there. Her aloof demeanour and electric blue eyelids make him feel the most intense joy he’s ever known. He calls her Ms Ice Sandwich, and he wants nothing more than to spend his days watching her coolly slip sandwiches into bags.
But the complexities of life keep getting in the way – his beloved grandmother’s illness is only getting worse, and his mother seems to be totally ignoring it. There’s also his faltering friendship with his classmate Tutti. As she invites him to join her in thrilling games and fantasy, the boy begins to enter a whole new world of imagination.
Wry, intimate and wonderfully skewed, Ms Ice Sandwich is a poignant depiction of the naivety and wisdom of youth, just as it is passing.

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

Whispers of the Garden Writing Workshop
2026-04-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 guided workshop, participants will explore the garden as a source of creativity—drawing inspiration from nature, seasonal change, and the calm atmosphere of the landscape. Through a series of gentle writing prompts and short exercises, you’ll learn how to translate what you see, feel, and experience into expressive writing.
Whether you enjoy poetry, journaling, storytelling, or simply want to begin writing more regularly, this workshop offers a welcoming space for writers of all levels. Participants will have time to write, reflect, and—if they wish—share their work.
Come discover how the quiet beauty of the garden can spark new ideas, deepen your creativity, and help your words bloom.
Space is limited and advance registration is required. Proceeds from this workshop support the ongoing care and cultural programming of Shinzen Friendship Garden. 🌿✍️
Meet Your Instructor:
Jackie Williams has an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from Fresno State and has taught English composition, literature, and creative writing around the Central Valley since 2010. She currently teaches at Fresno City College and lives in Clovis with her family and many pets. Jackie loves learning new things from cookie decorating to woodworking and looks forward to guiding you through some generative writing exercises in the beautiful backdrop of Shinzen Garden.

NAJGA San Diego Regional Workshop
2026-04-15 08:00 - 2026-04-17 17:00
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 for hands-on education and inspiration.
Participants can choose to attend the full three-day experience or select individual sessions, including a curated tour of exceptional public and private Japanese gardens, a hands-on Japanese Black Pine pruning workshop led by master gardener Manabu Katayama, and a bamboo fence construction workshop.
This unique opportunity offers both practical skills and deeper insight into traditional techniques, design principles, and the living artistry of Japanese gardens—all while connecting with a passionate community dedicated to preserving and advancing this timeless craft.
To learn more or register, visit: NAJGA San Diego Regional Workshop Details
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3rd Saturday Volunteer Day April 18
2026-04-18 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 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!

April Botanical Watercolor
2026-04-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 offers gentle instruction, creative freedom, and plenty of inspiration drawn directly from the garden around you. Come paint, relax, and leave with a finished piece that captures a moment of Shinzen’s natural beauty. Supplies included with registration.
Pre-registration is required.

Meet your instructor: Noelle Correia – Born under a full moon in Scorpio in Fresno, California, after spending time tinkering around at her father’s auto repair/welding shop as a child, Noelle began to create an imaginary world out of carpenter’s chalk drawings of discarded car parts. This world turned the industrial environment of downtown Fresno into a delusional paradise. Noelle left Fresno at eighteen but took her imaginary world with her and continues to process the nuance and grit of everyday cultural collision through fluvial imagery.
Her creative process begins with color. Noelle is inspired by how the color schemes pop in biodiversity, such as a poisonous dart frog’s epidermal layers resting on a muted green leaf. The biodiverse thread within her creative practice is that of Botanical Surrealism. She begins her work by thinking about the relationship between emotions and color and allows color theory to drive the outcome. Symbols that represent the feminine mystique and practical magic are a reoccurring thematic backdrop. The process has become a life metaphor in which she works through obstacles, obtains epiphanies, and understands herself as a tiny part of a much larger whole.
She conveys the beauty and complexities of human nature using texture, pattern, and narrative elements throughout her work. Her work has been exhibited in California Galleries and collectives exhibitions, including Radius Gallery, The Art Cave, The Art League of Santa Cruz County, Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery, and Arte Americas. Noelle’s work further explores the botanical world through watercolor painting, paper-cut collage practices, and encaustic medium. Through wax, water, and human narratives of all kinds, Noelle creates a vibrant play on color and form.

Seasons of Stories Book Club April Meeting
2026-04-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 permanent part of the Japanese language, and his heroine, Kazuko, a young aristocrat who deliberately abandons her class, a symbol of the anomie which pervades so much of the modern world.
The author of the global bestseller No Longer Human and The Setting Sun, Osamu Dazai (1909-1948) was famous for confronting head-on the social and moral crises of postwar Japan. He committed suicide by drowning in Tokyo’s Tamagawa Aqueduct.
Donald Keene, the author of dozens of books in both English and Japanese as well as the famed translator of Dazai, Kawabata, and Mishima, was the first non-Japanese to receive the Yomiuri Prize for Literature.

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

The Way of Matcha
2026-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 will explore the history and cultural role of matcha in Japan while tasting several distinct varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile. You’ll learn how matcha is traditionally prepared and gain insight into the tools used in Japanese tea practice, including the chasen (bamboo whisk) and chawan (tea bowl).
Guests will then have the opportunity to whisk and prepare their own bowl of matcha, practicing the techniques used to create a smooth, vibrant, and frothy tea. Traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) will be served to complement the tasting experience.
Whether you are new to matcha or looking to deepen your appreciation of Japanese tea traditions, this workshop offers a meaningful introduction to the artistry and cultural heritage behind every bowl.
Space is limited and advance registration is required. Proceeds from this workshop help support the preservation and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden.
Meet the Instructor:
Ms. Akiko Peterson

Photography 101 Workshop
2026-04-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 your device, you’ll gain practical skills you can start using right away.
Set against the serene backdrop of the garden, you’ll have the opportunity to practice what you learn in real time—framing landscapes, capturing details, and telling visual stories through your lens. With personalized guidance and a small class size, you’ll leave feeling more confident and inspired to take your photography to the next level.
Meet Your Instructor –
Victoria Flores
Victoria Flores is the gallery manager and web designer at Spectrum Art Gallery. She is an accomplished artist, adjunct professor at Fresno City College and a Sacramento State University Alumni. She also actively contributes to multiple committees within Spectrum Art Gallery, further shaping its artistic vision and community impact. She has seamlessly integrated formal education, technical expertise, and community service throughout her diverse career in visual arts.
Her extensive exhibition history showcases a diverse range of works, from solo exhibitions like “APP ART” on the World Wide Web in 2018 to group shows at renowned venues such as SF MOMA and Verge Center for the Arts. She has honed a versatile skill set, ranging from digital photography and alternative processes to painting, animation, graphic and web design.
Victoria’s technical expertise has been a driving force, enabling her to push artistic boundaries and experiment with various mediums. As she continues to navigate the intersection of art and technology, Victoria remains a dynamic figure, inspiring aspiring artists and making valuable contributions to vibrant art communities.

Free Garden Tour on April 26
2026-04-26 12:00 - 13:30 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 design.
The tours are approximately 1.5 hours long and free to the public with paid garden admission

Kokedama Workshop May
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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.
Pre-registration is required.
Blume & Vine
Blume & Vine was born from the belief that flowers are more than decoration, they are markers of life, memory, and meaning. From celebration to grief, from the quiet moments in between to the milestones that shape us, flowers tell our stories when words fall short.
Founded in Clovis, California, Blume & Vine is a modern floral studio dedicated to intentional design, sustainable practices, and honest connection. Every arrangement is crafted with care, using a blend of fresh, dried, and locally sourced blooms to reflect the emotion behind the moment. Our shop is inspired by the rhythm of real life a balance of softness and grit, beauty and imperfection, bloom and root. We honor the full spectrum of human experience through thoughtful floral design that feels personal, warm, and deeply grounded.

Petals to Pages Journal Writing Workshop
2026-05-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 will learn how journaling can help capture moments of beauty, process thoughts, and cultivate a deeper sense of presence. Drawing inspiration from the garden’s seasonal blooms, textures, and tranquil atmosphere, you’ll be encouraged to observe closely and translate those moments into meaningful written reflections.
This workshop is designed for writers of all levels—whether you are an experienced journal keeper or simply curious about using writing as a mindful practice. Participants will spend time writing, reflecting, and connecting with the natural environment that makes Shinzen Garden such a special place for contemplation.
Join us for a peaceful creative experience where nature inspires the page and every observation becomes a moment of discovery.
Space is limited and advance registration is required. Proceeds from this workshop support the preservation and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden.

Meet Your Instructor:
Jackie Williams has an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from Fresno State and has taught English composition, literature, and creative writing around the Central Valley since 2010. She currently teaches at Fresno City College and lives in Clovis with her family and many pets. Jackie loves learning new things from cookie decorating to woodworking and looks forward to guiding you through some generative writing exercises in the beautiful backdrop of Shinzen Garden.

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day May 16
2026-05-16 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 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!

May Botanical Watercolor
2026-05-16 11:00 - 13:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 offers gentle instruction, creative freedom, and plenty of inspiration drawn directly from the garden around you. Come paint, relax, and leave with a finished piece that captures a moment of Shinzen’s natural beauty. Supplies included with registration.
Pre-registration is required.

Meet your instructor: Noelle Correia – Born under a full moon in Scorpio in Fresno, California, after spending time tinkering around at her father’s auto repair/welding shop as a child, Noelle began to create an imaginary world out of carpenter’s chalk drawings of discarded car parts. This world turned the industrial environment of downtown Fresno into a delusional paradise. Noelle left Fresno at eighteen but took her imaginary world with her and continues to process the nuance and grit of everyday cultural collision through fluvial imagery.
Her creative process begins with color. Noelle is inspired by how the color schemes pop in biodiversity, such as a poisonous dart frog’s epidermal layers resting on a muted green leaf. The biodiverse thread within her creative practice is that of Botanical Surrealism. She begins her work by thinking about the relationship between emotions and color and allows color theory to drive the outcome. Symbols that represent the feminine mystique and practical magic are a reoccurring thematic backdrop. The process has become a life metaphor in which she works through obstacles, obtains epiphanies, and understands herself as a tiny part of a much larger whole.
She conveys the beauty and complexities of human nature using texture, pattern, and narrative elements throughout her work. Her work has been exhibited in California Galleries and collectives exhibitions, including Radius Gallery, The Art Cave, The Art League of Santa Cruz County, Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery, and Arte Americas. Noelle’s work further explores the botanical world through watercolor painting, paper-cut collage practices, and encaustic medium. Through wax, water, and human narratives of all kinds, Noelle creates a vibrant play on color and form.

Seasons of Stories Book Club May Meeting
2026-05-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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, a shy high-school student is subjected to bullying from his classmates and the only person capable of understanding his ordeal is a young classmate who suffers similar treatment at the hands of her tormentors. Each finds in the other a unique sensibility capable of offering not only solace but also a fresh perspective on their predicaments.

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

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration on May 17 - 11:00 am Seating
2026-05-17 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, 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 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.

Each registration directly supports the care, preservation, and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden, helping this special place continue to thrive.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration on May 17 - 1:30 Seating
2026-05-17 13:30 - 15:00 | 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, 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 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.

Each registration directly supports the care, preservation, and cultural programming of Shinzen Garden, helping this special place continue to thrive.

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day June 20
2026-06-20 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 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!

June Botanical Watercolor
2026-06-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 levels, this relaxed, creative experience blends observation, artistic exploration, and the tranquil beauty of the garden. Leave with a vibrant piece of art—and a deeper connection to Shinzen’s living landscape.
Pre-registration is required.

Meet your instructor: Noelle Correia – Born under a full moon in Scorpio in Fresno, California, after spending time tinkering around at her father’s auto repair/welding shop as a child, Noelle began to create an imaginary world out of carpenter’s chalk drawings of discarded car parts. This world turned the industrial environment of downtown Fresno into a delusional paradise. Noelle left Fresno at eighteen but took her imaginary world with her and continues to process the nuance and grit of everyday cultural collision through fluvial imagery.
Her creative process begins with color. Noelle is inspired by how the color schemes pop in biodiversity, such as a poisonous dart frog’s epidermal layers resting on a muted green leaf. The biodiverse thread within her creative practice is that of Botanical Surrealism. She begins her work by thinking about the relationship between emotions and color and allows color theory to drive the outcome. Symbols that represent the feminine mystique and practical magic are a reoccurring thematic backdrop. The process has become a life metaphor in which she works through obstacles, obtains epiphanies, and understands herself as a tiny part of a much larger whole.
She conveys the beauty and complexities of human nature using texture, pattern, and narrative elements throughout her work. Her work has been exhibited in California Galleries and collectives exhibitions, including Radius Gallery, The Art Cave, The Art League of Santa Cruz County, Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery, and Arte Americas. Noelle’s work further explores the botanical world through watercolor painting, paper-cut collage practices, and encaustic medium. Through wax, water, and human narratives of all kinds, Noelle creates a vibrant play on color and form.

Seasons of Stories Book Club June Meeting
2026-06-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 couple in their thirties live in a small rented cottage in a quiet part of Tokyo; they work at home, freelance copy-editing; they no longer have very much to say to one another. But one day a cat invites itself into their small kitchen. It leaves, but the next day comes again, and then again and again. Soon they are buying treats for the cat and enjoying talks about the animal and all its little ways. Life suddenly seems to have more promise for the husband and wife — the days have more light and color. The novel brims with new small joys and many moments of staggering poetic beauty, but then something happens….
As Kenzaburo Oe has remarked, Takashi Hiraide’s work “really shines.” His poetry, which is remarkably cross-hatched with beauty, has been acclaimed here for “its seemingly endless string of shape-shifting objects and experiences, whose splintering effect is enacted via a unique combination of speed and minutiae.”

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

Blumes and Tea
2026-06-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
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 texture as you design a bouquet to take home. This soothing, creative experience is perfect for flower lovers, tea enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.
Pre-registration is required.

Meet your instructor:
Blume and Vine – Blume & Vine was born from the belief that flowers are more than decoration, they are markers of life, memory, and meaning. From celebration to grief, from the quiet moments in between to the milestones that shape us, flowers tell our stories when words fall short. Founded in Clovis, California, Blume & Vine is a modern floral studio dedicated to intentional design, sustainable practices, and honest connection. Every arrangement is crafted with care, using a blend of fresh, dried, and locally sourced blooms to reflect the emotion behind the moment. Our shop is inspired by the rhythm of real life a balance of softness and grit, beauty and imperfection, bloom and root. We honor the full spectrum of human experience through thoughtful floral design that feels personal, warm, and deeply grounded. Whether we’re creating wedding flowers, memorial pieces, everyday bouquets, or custom installations, our goal is simple: to create florals that feel like they belong to your story.

3rd Saturday Volunteer Day July 18
2026-07-18 08:30 - 12:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
Join us Saturday, July 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 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
2026-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Shinzen Friendship Garden, 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA, 93720, United States
JULY 2026 BOOK SELECTION

Kitchen
by: Banana Yoshimoto

With the publication of Kitchen, the dazzling English-language debut that is still her best-loved book, the literary world realized that Yoshimoto was a young writer of enduring talent whose work has quickly earned a place among the best of contemporary Japanese literature. Kitchen is an enchantingly original book that juxtaposes two tales about mothers, love, tragedy, and the power of the kitchen and home in the lives of a pair of free-spirited young women in contemporary Japan. Mikage, the heroine, is an orphan raised by her grandmother, who has passed away. Grieving, Mikage is taken in by her friend Yoichi and his mother (who is really his cross-dressing father) Eriko. As the three of them form an improvised family that soon weathers its own tragic losses, Yoshimoto spins a lovely, evocative tale with the kitchen and the comforts of home at its heart.
In a whimsical style that recalls the early Marguerite Duras, “Kitchen” and its companion story, “Moonlight Shadow,” are elegant tales whose seeming simplicity is the ruse of a very special writer whose voice echoes in the mind and the soul.

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
