Kubota Garden
A 20-acre Japanese-style garden in Seattle, featuring ponds, waterfalls, and winding trails. A free, serene urban oasis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Kubota Garden
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 20-acre Japanese-style garden in Seattle, featuring ponds, waterfalls, and winding trails. A free, serene urban oasis.
"This botanical garden is amazingly large, given its urban setting. Tastefully laid out and wonderfully serene."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is hilly with many paths. You'll want comfy shoes for exploring!
🚗 Secure Your Vehicle
Be cautious of car break-ins; avoid leaving valuables visible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Moon Bridge
Central Pond
An iconic, arched bridge offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and water features.
Cascading Waterfalls
Various locations
Discover serene waterfalls that add to the garden's tranquil and meditative atmosphere.
Japanese Maples
Throughout the garden
Marvel at the vibrant colors of Japanese maples, especially stunning in autumn.
Winding Trails
Entire garden
Lose yourself in the maze of paths, each turn revealing new, breathtaking scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity (and the Hills!)
Car Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is hilly with many paths. You'll want comfy shoes for exploring!
🚗 Secure Your Vehicle
Be cautious of car break-ins; avoid leaving valuables visible.
💖 Support with Donations
This free garden thrives on donations. Consider contributing to its upkeep.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Ideal spot for nature and portrait photography with stunning backdrops. 
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is hilly with many paths. You'll want comfy shoes for exploring!
🚗 Secure Your Vehicle
Be cautious of car break-ins; avoid leaving valuables visible.
💖 Support with Donations
This free garden thrives on donations. Consider contributing to its upkeep.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Ideal spot for nature and portrait photography with stunning backdrops.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kubota Garden's stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and free admission, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'work of art.' The expansive, winding trails and diverse plant life are frequently praised, making it ideal for relaxation and photography. However, some caution is advised regarding car break-ins in the parking lot.
"Fascinating Japanese garden!
Beautiful well designed landscape with various creature like fish ,turtle and duck. There are a sign said beware of coyotes too. A beautiful and peaceful garden to relax. Worth a visit! Though I have seen many review that some people got their car window broken in board day light with no CCTV around so please beware. Do not left your valuable things or anythings in the car."
Melanie Y.
"Loved this place, found it very peaceful, quiet, and relaxing. This place is insanely beautiful and massive. It just keeps going and going. Thought we'd be able to see it all but ran out of time, maybe next time. It's a good waking place for all ages and tons to see and take in. Kids will probably like the fish they have there in the ponds. There are tons of cool bridges to cross over and paths that feel like you're in a whole other world. Truly is a work of art, and I'm thankful that this place is here. Grate place for portrait photos or nature photos. Loved being able to walk and explore at no cost. Cool that it doesn't cost any money."
Nathan Cole
"A beautiful Japanese garden snuggled into Seattle's residential area. This place feels like a mini oasis. It's very expansive with lots of walking trails, ponds, foot bridges, and plants. A must for dates, to clear your head, or simply to get some fresh air. They also have flush toilets in a building and picnic tables if you want to bring your lunch and enjoy some quiet time."
Mikhaila Tobin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kubota Garden is located in South Seattle. Public transportation options are available, and there is a small parking lot at the entrance.
Yes, there is a small parking lot available at the garden's entrance.
While specific routes can vary, Seattle's public transport system generally serves areas like Rainier Beach where the garden is located. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The garden features a maze of winding trails. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as it can be hilly.
Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a peaceful day trip, offering plenty to explore and enjoy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kubota Garden is completely free to enter and explore, making it an accessible gem for everyone.
The garden is open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, offering flexibility for your visit.
No, tickets are not required as the garden is free to enter. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
There are no admission fees. Kubota Garden is a public park and welcomes visitors free of charge.
Yes, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain the garden's beauty and operations. You can find donation information on their official website.
📸 📸 Photography
The Moon Bridge, waterfalls, Japanese maples, and the various ponds offer stunning photographic opportunities. +1
Yes, the garden is a popular and beautiful location for portrait photography, with many scenic backdrops.
Photography is generally allowed throughout the garden. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the garden's beauty. Autumn offers particularly vibrant colors.
Typically, drone usage is restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check with park management if you have specific questions.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore winding trails, serene ponds, waterfalls, bridges, and a diverse collection of plants and trees. It's perfect for peaceful walks and relaxation.
Yes, it's a great spot for family strolls with plenty of natural beauty to discover. Kids might enjoy spotting fish and turtles in the ponds.
Yes, there are flush toilets available in a building within the garden.
Picnic tables are available, making it a lovely spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Visitors have spotted fish, turtles, and ducks in the ponds. There are also signs warning of coyotes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for kids to burn off energy while experiencing nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated tables, making it a full, enjoyable outing without breaking the bank. Remember to keep an eye on little ones, especially near water features and on hilly terrain.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Spend your time wandering the trails, finding a quiet bench to read, or simply soaking in the tranquility. The garden's expansive nature means you can often find a secluded spot to enjoy your solitude. It's a wonderful place to recharge and find inner peace.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Whether you're into landscape, nature, or portrait photography, the garden provides a stunning and diverse canvas. The interplay of light and shadow, the rich textures of the plants, and the architectural elements make for truly captivating shots. It's a place where art and nature beautifully converge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Fujitaro Kubota
+1Kubota's design philosophy was unique; rather than strictly imitating Japanese landscapes, he adapted traditional elements to the local environment. This resulted in a garden that feels both familiar and distinctly Californian, featuring winding paths, serene ponds, waterfalls, and a remarkable variety of trees and plants. The garden was completed in 1962 and stands as one of the earliest examples of a Japanese-style garden created by an immigrant in the United States.
Today, the garden is maintained by the City of Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Friends of Kubota Garden, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It remains a beloved urban oasis, offering a peaceful retreat and a living piece of history.
Navigating the Garden's Terrain
Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on varied surfaces, including stone paths and wooden bridges. The garden's design encourages discovery, with slightly hidden paths around every corner, making it feel like a true adventure.
While the terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues, the sheer beauty and tranquility of the garden make the effort worthwhile for many. The interconnectedness of the trails allows for a flexible visit, whether you have an hour or an entire afternoon to spend soaking in the serenity.
Seasonal Splendor and Photography
Beyond fall, spring brings blooming flowers, while summer offers lush greenery. The garden's design, with its serene ponds, waterfalls, and iconic Moon Bridge, provides countless opportunities for stunning photography. It's a favorite spot for nature photographers and those seeking beautiful backdrops for portraits.
Visitors often recommend visiting during the 'golden hour'—early morning or late afternoon—for the most flattering light. The garden's peaceful atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an unforgettable photographic subject.
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