TIME. TO. TRAVEL
5 Things You Need To Know
Japanese Tea Gardens Hours
The Japanese Tea Gardens in San Antonio are open every day from 7 AM to 5 PM, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore this tranquil and scenic garden.
Tickets
Admission to the Japanese Tea Gardens in San Antonio is free, allowing everyone to enjoy this beautiful attraction without any entrance fees.
Location
The Japanese Tea Gardens are located at 3853 N St. Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212.
Jingu House
The Jingu House, located in the Japanese Tea Gardens, is open seven days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. This charming eatery offers a menu that includes sandwiches, bowls, appetizers, and sweets. Additionally, you can enjoy a selection of cocktails, sake, wine, beer, and seltzers while surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the gardens.
History
The history of the Japanese Tea Gardens in San Antonio is a tale of transformation and resilience. Originally known as the Chinese Tea Gardens, this site had its origins in the late 19th century. A successful brewer named George W. Brackenridge, who owned the land, decided to transform an abandoned rock quarry into a lush tea garden in the early 20th century.
His vision, along with the work of engineer Kimi Eizo Jingu, led to the creation of a beautiful oasis filled with exotic plants, serene koi-filled ponds, and an impressive two-tiered pagoda. The gardens were opened to the public in the 1920s and soon became a popular attraction, drawing visitors from near and far.
However, during World War II, anti-Japanese sentiment resulted in the gardens being renamed the "Chinese Sunken Garden" due to the association of the Jingu family with Japan. It wasn't until the 1980s that the original name, the Japanese Tea Gardens, was reinstated.
Today, this historic site stands as a symbol of cultural appreciation and reconciliation, showcasing the enduring beauty of a transformed quarry and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It continues to be a cherished destination for those seeking solace and a connection to nature in the heart of San Antonio.
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