Private Events at the Garden

Imagine your own celebration under the stars. Whether a romantic candlelit dinner or an exotic, Asian- inspired event... the Garden is the perfect environment for the wedding or celebration of your dreams.

Explore the exuberant setting, the winding paths, the ancient lanterns, a peaceful waterfall and the Koi Pond of the Japanese Friendship Garden. The Garden combines zen philosophy and style in a spectacular setting. Your event will be truly unforgettable.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a gem hidden in the heart of San Diego's historic Balboa Park. At this time, the Garden's quiet and flowering landscapes cover 9 acres. It is the ideal setting for events from intimate parties to functions with up to 200 guests.

The simple beauty of the Koi Pond has turned it into a preferred location for ceremonies. The Pond is located below a wisteria (Fujidana) bower and is surrounded by the sounds of our waterfall. It is the ideal spot to say "I do" in an intimate wedding ceremony.

Ceremony at the Koi Pond & Moon Viewing Deck (Photo credit: Kathy Ziegler Photography)

Cocktail Reception at the Koi Pond (Photo credit: Cary Pennington Photogrpahy)

The Ceremonial Gate

Ceremony (Max. Capacity 200)

The majestic backdrop of the Ceremonial Gate is the perfect location for a larger, grander ceremony. The Ceremonial Gate is a magnificent location with views overlooking the towering Corinthian-style columns of our neighbors at the Organ Pavilion.

 Ceremony at the Ceremonial Gate 

Exhibit House

(Max. Capacity 50)

*Additional Fee: $45/per hour

Designed in the traditional Japanese sukiya style, the Exhibit House has rotating exhibits that feature various arts, crafts, and collections from the Japanese culture. Guests can enjoy the month’s featured exhibit and the tranquility of the viewing room overlooking the Zen Rock Garden.

Ceremonial Plaza 

Reception (Max. Capacity 200)

All receptions take place in the Ceremonial Plaza, with backdrops of the majestic Ceremonial Gate and grandiose views of the Organ Pavilion. Celebrations held in the springtime can enjoy the beauty of the wisteria blossoms that cover the bamboo framework. You and your guests remain free to explore the Garden’s beauty the entire evening of your celebration.

Rental Rates:
$450 per hour (Minimum 3 hour rental period; Rental not to exceed more than 8 hours)
To reserve date: 50% deposit of total cost of event, plus $500.00 Security and Cleaning Deposit is due at signing of reservation and contract.

Please take note…
Prior to date selection, the date must be checked against the scheduled events in the Garden. Please take note that the maximum capacity for events is 200 guests.
Additionally, events should be scheduled after the normal operational hours of the Garden. Garden operational hours are Tuesdays through Sundays 10AM to 4PM.

The Garden will not be responsible for:
Alternate site preparations in case of rain;
Noise disturbances from outside events;
The health and safety of the guests during their use of the Garden; or
Loss of any valuables brought to the site by the staff or guests.

 Book your Private Event at the Garden 
Specializing in Weddings, Corporate Events, Anniversary’s, Birthdays and Memorials 

Ceremony (Maximum Capacity: 85)

Small Reception with Tables (Maximum Capacity: 50) Coctails (Maximum Capacity: 100)

Areas for Ceremonies and Receptions

The Garden offers the following beautiful areas for your event.

The Koi Pond and Moon Viewing Deck