6100 Woodley Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91406 United States
Summary
The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys, fondly known as SuihoEn ("Garden of Water and Fragrance"), is a 6.5-acre urban oasis located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. This authentic garden demonstrates how high quality recycled water from the adjacent Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant (DCTWRP) can sustain a delicate, beautiful ecosystem with lakes and streams. Designed by Dr. Koichi Kawana, the grounds feature a dry Zen meditation garden, an expansive wet-strolling garden with waterfalls and streams, and an authentic tea house.
For additional history, virtual tours, and event details, please visit The Japanese Garden's official website
Hours and Admission Fees
Operating Hours
Walk-in visitors are welcome during standard public operating hours. Last entry is strictly at 3:15pm, and all visitors must exit the garden by 3:30pm.
Admission Fees
- General: $5
- Children (3 & younger): $3
- Seniors (62+): $3
- Group visits: Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more people
The garden is closed every Friday and Saturday, on all Federal and City of Los Angeles observed holidays, and within 24 hours of rain.
Public Events
We host special cultural public events generally held once a month on Sunday from 9:30am to 3:30pm.
Upcoming and Past Events have included:
- Paper Lotuses and Water Lilies
- Tanabata (Star Festival)
- Taiko
- Father’s Day Ikebana
Please visit The Japanese Garden's official website for upcoming event details
Garden Etiquette is Enforced
To preserve this serene environment and protect plant life, all visitors must follow these guidelines:
- No Outside Food or Drinks: Only bottled water is permitted inside the garden.
- Stay on Marked Paths: Do not step into delicate landscaping or dry stone areas.
- Protect Wildlife: Do not feed fish or birds, and do not pick flowers or leaves.
- Service Animals Only: Pets are not allowed on the grounds.
- Walk Safely: Please walk at all times; running is prohibited.
Photography Policy
Casual, unposed snapshots and selfies taken during your stroll are welcomed and encouraged! However, posed photography including wedding, engagement, portrait, commercial, or student projects is strictly prohibited, regardless of the camera equipment used.
- Allowed: Quick candid photos, flower close-ups, and social media check-ins.
- Not Allowed: Tripods, formal wear/costumes, changing clothes, props, or blocking paths.
Location & Transportation
The Japanese Garden shares its main gate with the Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant (DCTWRP) in Van Nuys.
- By Car: Located about 8 minutes from the Interstate 405 and U.S. Route 101 freeway interchange. Ample free parking is available near the entrance.
- By Mass Transit: A 15-to-20-minute walk from nearby bus stops, including the Woodley Station on the G Line (formerly Orange Line) busway.
- Gate Entry: The security gate remains closed for safety; please check in with the security guard upon arrival.
Related facilities
Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant