Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
A serene, free Japanese garden on the CSULB campus, featuring koi ponds, bridges, and a Zen garden for peaceful contemplation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, free Japanese garden on the CSULB campus, featuring koi ponds, bridges, and a Zen garden for peaceful contemplation.
"This hidden gem is a peaceful oasis, perfect for a serene escape and beautiful photos."
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for entry. Book on their website to guarantee your visit!
🅿️ Parking Fees Apply
Parking is paid hourly across the street. Factor this into your visit budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koi Pond and Feeding
Central pond area
Watch vibrant koi glide through the water and even feed them with a special reservation. A truly serene experience.
Zen Garden and Tea House
Secluded area
Find inner peace in the meticulously raked Zen garden, a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
Iconic Bridges
Over the pond
Cross the charming bridges that offer picturesque views of the garden and its tranquil water features.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations are Key
+6Parking and Access
+3Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for entry. Book on their website to guarantee your visit!
🅿️ Parking Fees Apply
Parking is paid hourly across the street. Factor this into your visit budget. +1
🧘♀️ Yoga & Sound Baths
Check for paid yoga, sound bathing, and forest bathing classes offered on-site.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The garden offers numerous beautiful spots for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for entry. Book on their website to guarantee your visit!
🅿️ Parking Fees Apply
Parking is paid hourly across the street. Factor this into your visit budget. +1
🧘♀️ Yoga & Sound Baths
Check for paid yoga, sound bathing, and forest bathing classes offered on-site.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The garden offers numerous beautiful spots for photography.
💧 Feed the Koi
Separate reservations are needed to feed the koi fish. Plan ahead!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden for its tranquility, beauty, and free admission. It's described as a well-maintained, peaceful oasis perfect for a short, serene visit. Some note the small size and the need for advance reservations and paid parking as minor drawbacks.
"This is such a cute little Japanese Garden located inside the Long Beach College. Easy to get there. I recommend you park across the entrance which is lot 4. You do need to pay as they do have the parking security check. It's $6 per hour. You will need make reservations on their website and create an account which totally free as well to go in. They do verify if you have reservations. Its well maintained. It took us about 30 minutes to see all of it but the remaining of the time we were admiring the garden, cute Koi fish and you can also feed them. You will need reservations to feed the Koi. Very peaceful and their staff is very polite. Definitely coming back."
EdenA
"I love visiting this Japanese garden. It's so tranquil and serene and I get to visit my alma mater.
Be sure to make reservations. There is a parking lot just across of the garden. Parking will depend on the amount of time to choose."
Melody T
"Its a very small Garden but well kept and definitely worth the visit. Admission is free but you have to reserve a time on line. They do great at keeping crowds small. Lots of photo spots."
KayvyCrafts N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located on the campus of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). You can find it on Earl Warren Drive. Parking is available in Lot G4 across from the garden entrance and is paid hourly.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot (Lot G4) located across from the garden entrance. Parking fees are typically hourly.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in social media, CSULB is accessible via Long Beach Transit buses. Check their website for routes serving the university.
The garden is located on the CSULB campus. Follow signs for the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden or use GPS coordinates for Earl Warren Drive.
The garden features winding pathways and bridges, making it easy to explore on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for strolling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the garden is free! However, you absolutely must make an advance online reservation to visit.
Reservations are required and can be made through the official Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times.
The garden is typically open Tuesday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, and Sundays from 12 PM to 2 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Always check their official website for the most current hours.
The entrance to the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is free. However, parking on campus is paid hourly. +2
No, advance online reservations are strictly required for entry. Visitors without a reservation will not be admitted.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! The garden is frequently praised for its beautiful scenery, making it a popular spot for photography, including engagement and wedding photos. +1
You can stroll through the peaceful grounds, admire the koi pond, cross charming bridges, relax in the Zen garden, and visit the Tea House. Some visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere for meditation.
Yes, you can feed the koi fish, but it requires a separate reservation when you book your main garden visit.
Yes, the garden hosts paid yoga and sound bathing classes on certain days, often on Wednesdays and Fridays. Check their schedule for details.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to see the main highlights, but many choose to linger longer to soak in the peaceful ambiance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the garden itself. Visitors typically bring their own snacks or plan to eat before or after their visit at nearby Long Beach eateries.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to be mindful of food and drinks in a garden setting. Pack light and be respectful of the environment.
Yes, the garden is located on the CSULB campus, which has dining options, and the surrounding Long Beach area offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Remember that parking is paid, and while garden entry is free, booking a reservation is essential. Encourage children to walk quietly and appreciate the serene environment. It's a great spot for a gentle introduction to Japanese culture and garden design. Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy nearby after your visit, as food is not permitted inside the garden.
couples
+1Consider booking an early morning slot to enjoy the garden's quiet beauty before it gets busier. The opportunity to feed the koi or simply stroll hand-in-hand along the paths makes for a memorable and intimate experience. It's also a fantastic location for engagement photos or a relaxed afternoon outing.
Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, aim for a weekday visit when parking might be less in demand. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them elsewhere. The garden offers a high-value experience for a minimal cost, making it a top pick for affordable exploration in Long Beach.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Serene Experience
Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially on weekends, to experience the garden with fewer people. This allows for a more immersive and personal connection with the natural beauty. The garden's design, featuring winding paths, a central koi pond, and a charming tea house, invites visitors to slow down and appreciate the details.
Beyond just a stroll, the garden offers opportunities for mindful activities. Paid yoga and sound bathing classes are sometimes available, providing a unique way to engage with the peaceful environment. This blend of natural beauty and intentional wellness activities makes the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden a truly special destination.
Planning Your Visit: Reservations and Logistics
+7Parking is another key consideration. The garden is located on the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) campus, and parking is available in a paid lot (Lot G4) across from the garden entrance. Fees are typically charged by the hour, so be sure to budget for this. Some visitors suggest arriving early to ensure you can find a parking spot and have ample time to enter the garden.
+2For those interested in specific activities like feeding the koi fish, remember that this requires a separate reservation. Make sure to select this option when booking your main garden visit if you wish to participate. The garden also occasionally hosts special events and classes, so checking their official website for the latest information is always a good idea.
+2
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