The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

This was my first time at the Japanese Friendship Garden. We went on a Friday around 5pm on the free admission day. When we arrived, their parking, which was free too, was pretty full. When you first enter, there is a gift shop which only allows 6 people at a time. Then there's the admission booth where you pay for the tickets, if you don't go on the free day. As you continue, there's a station where you can buy beverages on your right and on the left, you see the bathroom in front of the pond. Be aware, you can't take professional pictures here. This is supposed to be a quiet place. There were so many people. It's pretty small and requires lots of maintenance. I wish I had more time and was able to enjoy it quietly, but I may have to leave it for another day. Overall it is nice and peaceful. The park is clean. They charge about 14 dollars on the other days and I found that to be a lot, but considering the upkeep, I suppose it makes sense. I just thought it was small, but beautiful.

It's beautiful and a great place for quiet contemplation. It is a good reminder of what can be accomplished gardening in Arizona, though I think if they embraced the Professional photography community by giving them times to book, there would be far less people trying to sneak photography opportunities. Recommend the visit for a relaxing meditation, not recommended for photographers, please.

We were visiting from out of town! Stopped by here on a whim. Amazing garden with beautiful views! Cute little gift shop out front too! Staff is very friendly & accommodating ! Hope to visit again soon when we are back in Arizona !

Our first step into the Japanese Friendship Garden was magical. The experience was filled with peace and serenity. We wandered the garden paths, took in the beautiful vignettes, and relaxed for a few moments by the mesmerizing waterfalls. The baby ducks and their parents that swam by like a little parade and the koi fish that were magnificently colorful brought life and joy to our day. What an incredible getaway in the midst of our busy metropolitan city of Phoenix.

This garden was smaller than I anticipated. Despite visiting on a weekday afternoon, it was fairly busy which with nearby city sounds took away from the otherwise peaceful setting. I will say everyone was courteous and kept conversations low while away from the entrance. I visited for free through a garden pass and I think I would have been a bit disappointed if I had paid to get in. The grounds are immaculately maintained, there just isn't a ton to see here