If you are craving tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of Los Angeles, you will find it at the Van Nuys Japanese Garden. It is located off Woodley Avenue in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. The area is also known as Lake Balboa. It’s adjacent to the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Center which is a huge green area that features a gorgeous lake, golf course, soccer fields, dog parks, historical sites, and much more.
Watch my video walk through of the garden on YouTube
Find things to do and where to stay near Van Nuys, here.
Water reclamation plant turned garden
The idea of turning the grounds of the Tillman Water Reclamation Plant into a Japanese Garden was conceived by Donald C. Tilman. The plant treats and reclaims wastewater, removing it from the sewer system and reducing the need for large sewer pipes downstream from the plant. That may not sound attractive but through creativity and foresight, the plant has demonstrated how reclaimed water can be used in a positive way.
The garden was dedicated in 1984 and I’ve seen it evolve over time.
Urban Oasis
The peaceful sanctuary of the Japanese Garden consists of 6 ½ acres with three types of gardens designed by Doctor Koichi Kawana. There is a dry Zen meditation garden that includes Tortoise Island, a three Buddha arrangement of stones, and a wisteria arbor.
You can walk past a wet-strolling garden with waterfalls, lakes, streams, bridges, and hand-carved stone lanterns made by Japanese artisans.
A tea garden with an authentic tatami mat teahouse sits at the far end of the garden.
Enjoy the natural world in a Southeast Asian environment
The Japanese-inspired foliage in the garden is artfully designed to be peaceful and serene. It is planted so that visitors can enjoy it during each season. There are azaleas, cherry trees, magnolias, wisteria, lotus, bamboo, and other Southeast Asian varieties.
I especially love watching various species of birds blissfully playing in the Japanese garden’s protected habitat. There are plenty of ducks, geese and even a striking white crane or two.
Visiting the Japanese Garden
You must reserve a timed ticket that gives you one hour to stroll through the grounds of the garden. Make sure NOT to arrive early or you will be made to wait outside the gate before being allowed to park at the facility.
I was last there during lunchtime, and it was a hot day so morning or late afternoon may be a better choice during the warmer months. Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a water bottle with you.
The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys is currently open Monday – Thursday from 10 am to 3:30 pm.
Admission is free with a timed ticket.
It is located at 6100 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, California 91406
You can visit its website here.
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