Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden
A tranquil 1.45-acre Japanese-style garden in Pasadena, offering a serene escape with ponds, waterfalls, and a historic teahouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil 1.45-acre Japanese-style garden in Pasadena, offering a serene escape with ponds, waterfalls, and a historic teahouse.
"This hidden gem is a great place to take a date and explore the well maintained Japanese garden with lots of history."
Check Hours Before You Go
The garden has limited weekend hours. Always confirm before your visit!
Book Tickets in Advance
Save a few dollars and guarantee your entry by purchasing tickets online.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koi Ponds & Bridges
Throughout the garden
Watch vibrant koi swim beneath charming stone bridges in this serene, meticulously designed landscape.
Tranquil Teahouse
Central area
A picturesque teahouse offers a focal point for contemplation amidst lush greenery and flowing water.
Lush Greenery & Waterfalls
Garden paths
Wander through a verdant oasis featuring gentle waterfalls and diverse plant life, creating a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Zen
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before You Go
The garden has limited weekend hours. Always confirm before your visit!
Book Tickets in Advance
Save a few dollars and guarantee your entry by purchasing tickets online.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be strolling along paths and enjoying the scenery, so comfy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Camera
This garden is incredibly photogenic! Get ready to capture stunning shots. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before You Go
The garden has limited weekend hours. Always confirm before your visit!
Book Tickets in Advance
Save a few dollars and guarantee your entry by purchasing tickets online.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be strolling along paths and enjoying the scenery, so comfy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Camera
This garden is incredibly photogenic! Get ready to capture stunning shots. :camerawithflash:
Embrace the Quiet
It's a peaceful retreat; be mindful of noise levels to respect other visitors. :personinlotus_position:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden as a stunning, serene, and gorgeous hidden gem. Its meticulously maintained beauty and historical significance transport guests to another time, offering a peaceful escape. While small, its tranquility and photogenic nature make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"Serene, stunning, absolutely gorgeous. This hidden gem is a great place to take a date and explore the well maintained Japanese garden with lots of history. It is quite small, but you get transported to another time the second you enter. It is super peaceful and beautiful. There is a $12 entrance fee but it is worth it as a one time thing. Be ready to take lots of photos, and say hi to the cute ducklings!"
Shawn Sheng
"A cousin got married here and it was really a beautiful place!"
Denise Kim
"The scenery was great! alot of remarkable things to remember! Remember to take photos!"
Alexander Chung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located at 270 Arlington Drive, Pasadena, California. Parking is often available on Arlington Drive, which is convenient for the entrance.
While specific routes can vary, Pasadena is served by public transit. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on bus routes that may get you close to the garden.
Street parking on Arlington Drive is frequently mentioned as easy and free, making it a convenient option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The garden is typically open on Fridays from 4-8 PM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can vary. 
Admission is $12 when purchased in advance and $15 at the entrance. This fee is considered reasonable for the experience.
It is recommended to buy tickets in advance to save money and ensure entry, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or special events.
Yes, reservations can be made, and emailing the staff with questions often yields a quick response, indicating good customer service.
No, there is an admission fee, typically around $12-$15, but many visitors find it to be a worthwhile cost for the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The koi ponds, stone bridges, teahouse, and lush greenery offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The entire garden is a photographer's dream.
While photography is encouraged, it's important to be mindful of other visitors and maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Drone photography may have specific regulations.
Yes, the garden is a popular and beautiful location for engagement and wedding photos due to its serene and picturesque setting.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
It's a tranquil, 1.45-acre Japanese-style garden with ponds, waterfalls, and a teahouse. Visitors describe it as a peaceful escape and a hidden gem.
Absolutely! It's described as a great place to take a date, offering a serene and beautiful environment for a relaxed outing.
You can often see koi fish, turtles, and other aquatic life in the ponds. Ducklings have also been spotted!
The grounds are mostly covered, which can be helpful, and there is seating throughout. However, the paths might present challenges for some. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
Created by Kinzuchi Fujii between 1935-1940 for Charles and Ellamae Storrier Stearns, it's Fujii's only remaining intact garden and holds significant historical and artistic value.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to teach kids about different cultures and the importance of respecting nature. The well-maintained paths are generally easy to navigate, though keeping a close eye on little ones near water features is always advised. The garden's manageable size means it's not overwhelming for younger visitors, and the beauty of the surroundings can spark their imagination.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Content creators will find the garden's tranquil vibe perfect for mindful or aesthetic-focused posts. The golden hour light can be particularly magical here. Remember to check for any specific guidelines regarding professional photography or drone usage to ensure a smooth experience.
❤️ Couples & Dates
Stroll hand-in-hand along the paths, admire the koi, and enjoy the serene beauty together. It’s a wonderful alternative to the usual busy date spots, offering a chance to create lasting memories in a truly beautiful environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1The garden's creation transformed a flat tennis court area on the Stearns' six-acre estate, which also featured a mansion built in 1913. The design showcases traditional Japanese garden elements, including meticulously placed rocks, water features, and carefully selected flora, all arranged to evoke a sense of harmony and tranquility. The history behind its creation is one of dedication and artistic vision, a testament to Fujii's skill and the Stearns' appreciation for Japanese aesthetics.
Visitors often remark on how the garden feels like stepping into another time, a testament to its enduring design and the care it has received. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes a visit to the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden a truly enriching experience, offering a peaceful retreat with a compelling backstory.
Experiencing the Tranquility
Many visitors highlight the opportunity for quiet contemplation and photography. The garden's intimate size, while sometimes noted, contributes to its cozy and personal feel. It's a space where you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings, whether you're enjoying a mindful stroll, observing the aquatic life, or simply finding a quiet bench to sit and breathe.
Events like tea ceremonies and even weddings are held here, showcasing the garden's versatility as a venue for both personal reflection and special occasions. The tranquil setting, combined with the visual appeal of the ponds, bridges, and lush greenery, makes it a memorable location for any visitor seeking a moment of peace and natural beauty.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit