Despite being located in San Francisco, the authentic charm of the Japanese Tea Garden will make you feel as if you are actually in the land of the rising sun. Kudos to Mr Hagiwara who re-created the exotic charm of his hometown in Japan, with its Shinto-inspired structures. This is also the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States, and it provides a truly serene experience.

The enchanting harmony of water, rocks, trees pruned in the Japanese style and the azalea-covered waterfall will surely calm your senses. Admire a clipped hedge resembling Mount Fuji near the Main Gate and marvel at the five-storey Pagoda with its nine rings symbolising different gods. Relax with a cup of green tea amidst the intoxicating scent of flowers and bonsai trees and let the songs of the cascading mini-waterfall evoke the spirit of Zen in you.