The site was originally a rock quarry owned by the Alamo Cement Company until it ceased operations in 1899.
Kimi Eizo Jingu, a Japanese artist, and his family lived in the garden and operated the tea house from 1920 until they were forcibly removed during World War II.
The garden was officially renamed the 'Chinese Tea Garden' in 1942 due to anti-Japanese sentiment during the war, before being reverted to its original name in 1984.
The stone structures were built using the native limestone excavated during the site's quarrying years.
In 2022, the garden was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places.
The Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio is a historic site transformed from a former limestone rock quarry into a lush sunken garden. It features a signature 60-foot waterfall that serves as the centerpiece of the landscape. The garden integrates stone bridges, koi ponds, and a traditional pagoda structure along winding walkways. It is part of the Brackenridge Park system and maintains a tranquil, climate-controlled microenvironment. On-site facilities include the Jingu House Cafe, which serves light refreshments within the garden grounds. The site underwent a major restoration in 2008 to restore its historical stone masonry and water features. It remains a key example of early 20th-century landscape design in Texas.
The stone bridge positioned directly in front of the 60-foot waterfall.
Wear comfortable, slip-resistant footwear as the stone paths can be uneven or slippery near the waterfall.
Bring a camera with a macro lens to capture the vibrant koi in the ponds.
Check the official website for scheduled public events or private closures before visiting.
Avoid visiting during peak summer heat in the middle of the day, as the stone walls reflect significant heat and offer limited shade in open sections.
Occasional closures occur for private events; check the park foundation website for updates.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile garden flora, and keep noise levels low to maintain the meditative atmosphere.
