Private Events at the Garden

Imagine your own private garden celebration underneath the stars. Whether it is a romantic candlelight dinner as you are surrounded by the soft glow of luminaries lighting the pathways or an exotic, Asian-inspired affair... we provide the picture perfect backdrop for the wedding or celebration you’ve always dreamed about.

Explore the lush manicured landscapes, winding pathways, ancient lanterns, tranquil waterfall and Koi Pond of the Japanese Friendship Garden. The Garden is the perfect balance of Zen and style along with a spectacular location to make your event truly unforgettable.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a hidden jewel located in the heart of San Diego’s historic Balboa Park. The Garden currently sits on 2 ½ acres of serene and flourishing landscapes.

The Garden is an ideal backdrop for intimate affairs of 10 to celebrations up to 200 guests.

Ceremony and Reception Venues

The Garden offers these beautiful areas to accommodate your event:

The Koi Pond and Moon Viewing Deck

Ceremony (Max. Capacity 85)

Small Reception- sit-down (Max. Capacity 50)

Cocktail Hour (Max. Capacity 100)

The simple beauty of the Koi Pond has made this location a favorite for ceremonies. Nestled underneath the Fujidana (wisteria arbor) and surrounded by the serene sounds of the waterfall, the Koi Pond is the ideal location to exchange “I DO” for your intimate 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.
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