Japanese Tea Gardens in SF; Golden Gate Park
/Japanese Tea Gardens // Golden Date Park; SF
I have been needing a day of relaxation. Sometimes the rat-race gets the best of us and we need to take a step out of the fog and clear our heads. I decided to find my "zen" at an SF landmark I had yet to visit in the heart of Golden Gate Park; The Japanese Tea Gardens. This lush, green landscape, with vibrant red pagodas, an arched drum bridge, and traditional stone lanterns was the perfect place to find tranquility.
It was a rather crowded day in this small garden oasis, but even with all the people, I found beautiful moments of serenity; Much stemming from good conversation with my girlfriend Christine. After doing an initial stroll through the sunny garden, we plopped down in the outdoor cafe and talked over cups of tea, bowls of Miso soup and a few nut tarts for a sweet finish.
The Tea Gardens are tucked in the corner of Golden Gate Park's Main Concourse. With an $8 entrance fee for out of towers and a hefty serving of tea, you can find a couple hours worth of peace for less than $13! Today I enjoyed a cup of Hojicha while looking over a waterfall, and Koi pond surrounded by Japanese maples and pines. This was a great way to feel like you are not only away from bustling city, but in another part of the world all together.
“When a garden is used as a place to pause for thought, that is when a Zen garden comes to life. When you contemplate a garden like this it will form as lasting impression on your heart.”
I am looking forward to going back to the gardens! Make a stop here if ever in Golden Gate Park!
xx
Sara De.