The Japanese Tea Garden was originally gifted to the city in 1974 by the Japanese American community.
The garden's designer, Nagao Sakurai, previously served as the supervising architect for the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
The park grounds were once part of the estate of William Howard, an early settler and prominent local figure.
The miniature train located in the park is a popular attraction for families and historically significant to the local park system.
The rose garden features over 500 individual rose bushes representing various hybrid varieties.
San Mateo Central Park is a 16-acre urban greenspace featuring a renowned Japanese Tea Garden designed by landscape architect Nagao Sakurai. The park includes a miniature train for children, multiple tennis courts, and a large rose garden that blooms seasonally. The facility hosts the San Mateo Ice Rink during the winter months, typically operating as a temporary seasonal installation. A central pond serves as the focal point for the Japanese garden, housing koi and providing traditional stone lantern features. The site is managed by the City of San Mateo and functions as a primary hub for community recreation and municipal events. Facilities include expansive picnic areas, a playground, and access to the San Mateo Public Library. Paved walking paths connect the various botanical sections, offering a transition from the quiet garden areas to active sports zones.
The arched wooden bridge overlooking the pond in the Japanese Tea Garden.
Visit the Japanese Tea Garden on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds and noise.
Pack a picnic lunch, as the shaded grassy areas are well-maintained and ample.
Check the city website before winter visits to confirm the specific operating dates for the seasonal ice rink.
Attempting to feed the koi in the pond, which is prohibited to maintain water health.
The ice rink is a seasonal installation active only during winter months.
Maintain a quiet volume in the Japanese Tea Garden to preserve the contemplative atmosphere.
