The garden was specifically modeled after the famous Korakuen Garden in Okayama, Japan.
The site features a waterfall arrangement designed to mimic the natural flow found in mountainous Japanese landscapes.
The placement of every large rock in the garden was deliberate, following traditional Japanese landscaping principles to create specific sightlines.
The koi ponds are home to generations of fish that have been maintained by the city since the park's inception.
Many of the decorative stone lanterns throughout the park are carved from granite in traditional Japanese styles.
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a 6-acre traditional Japanese-style garden located within Kelley Park in San Jose. It was established in 1965 as a symbol of the sister-city relationship between San Jose and Okayama, Japan. The landscape design is inspired by the Korakuen Garden in Okayama, featuring hand-laid rock paths and stone lanterns. The garden is centered around two large ponds connected by a stream, designed to represent the tranquil flow of water. It serves as a sanctuary for various koi fish, which are a signature element of the central water feature. The grounds include traditional wooden bridges, tea house structures, and curated bonsai specimens. It is maintained by the City of San Jose Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services. The garden is integrated into the larger municipal park system, providing a quiet retreat from urban surroundings.
The arched wooden bridge overlooking the primary koi pond, which offers a panoramic view of the garden's tiered layout.
Bring fish food if permitted, as feeding the koi is a highlight for many visitors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths consist of a mix of gravel and uneven stone segments.
Visit during the weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy the acoustic stillness of the water features.
Do not attempt to walk on the restricted stone sections of the water features, as they are fragile and pose a safety risk.
The garden may close periodically for maintenance or during significant rain events for safety; check local park status before arrival.
Stay on marked paths to protect the delicate plantings and refrain from entering the water or feeding the fish unauthorized food.
