One of the highlights of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is its Japanese Garden. This stunning pocket of serenity recreates the colors and sensations of Japan at its most vivid and romantic. Wander along its winding paths, pausing on its arched bridge, to take in this gorgeous site. Visit the garden throughout the year and you could attend one of its entertaining and informative events.
Explore a garden that was added to the site in 1973, 40 years after the gardens first opened. Today it spreads out over 7.5 acres (3 hectares) and has become a popular space for hosting weddings.
Amble around the edge of the two lakes in the Japanese Garden to experience the tranquil atmosphere of the garden. Your walk will lead you past waterfalls, pavilions and pagodas, as well as to a karesansui, or dry landscape garden.
Look in the ponds to see over 1,200 koi fish swimming lazily through the water. Public tours of the garden are available on the second Tuesday of every month, or by appointment.
Visit the garden in spring or fall to see the foliage at its most colorful. In spring, the cherry trees come into blossom, while the Japanese maples turn red in fall. This seasonal transformation is intentional, as it represents the concept of “mono no aware,” a reflection on the way that beauty is fleeting and temporary.
Come to the garden on the third Saturday of every month to enjoy one of the garden’s public tea ceremonies. The Japanese Garden also hosts spring and fall festivals. These events include taiko drummers, martial arts demonstrations and dances. Visit the garden’s website to find out more.
The Fort Worth Japanese Garden has an admission fee, although the rest of the gardens are free for all visitors to explore, with free parking throughout the area. Walk here from some of Fort Worth’s most popular attractions, such as the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, in about 10 minutes. The attraction is open daily.
