Private Events at the Japanese Friendship Garden

From intimate wedding ceremonies to elegant receptions, the Japanese Friendship Garden is the perfect setting for any celebration! Tucked away in the heart of San Diego’s historic Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a truly beautiful venue. The lush trees and tall bamboo provide a uniquely intimate and unforgettable venue for weddings, private parties, corporate receptions, proms, and more. The Japanese Friendship garden features winding pathways and authentic Japanese garden features such as koi ponds, waterfalls, bonsai, cherry trees and wisteria arbors. The site is divided into two primary sections, each with distinct areas to create beautiful settings for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

A Few Things That Make the Garden Stand Out

• The party doesn’t have to stop until the clock strikes midnight! While many other venues close up shop much earlier, the JFG likes to party!
• Live Bands and DJ’s are totally acceptable at the Garden and they’re a great addition to any party!
• The JFG allows pets to take part in your ceremony! Your fur baby doesn’t have to be left out of the celebration!
• The JFG is really flexible on alcohol, you can even purchase and supply it yourself. All they require is to have it served by a licensed and insured vendor, and you’re all set.
• In addition to the beautiful garden venue there are even more beautiful places to take photos just outside the JFG’s front door!

Click this link for more answers to frequently asked questions!

More about the Upper Garden Venue

The Upper Garden is filled with luscious green scenery and is a unique setting for an outdoor event under the starry night sky. The natural beauty surrounds you and your guests and doesn’t call for much decor at all, just throw in a little atmospheric light and you’ve got an amazingly beautiful setting for any occasion.

The Spaces Within the Upper Garden:

• Koi Pond & Moon Viewing Deck
• Ceremonial Gate
• Reception Plaza
• Exhibit Hall
• Activity Room (Bridal Prep Room/Green Room)
• Two single stalled bathrooms (gender neutral / handicap accessible) and an additional restroom in the Activity Room

Example Quote for the Upper Garden Venue

Here is a sample quotes for the paid portion of time at the JFG’s most popular rentals, and account for an hour of set up and hour of clean up.

Ceremony and Reception:

• Recommended at least 7 hours. Maximum 9 hours.
• Most popular rental: 8 hours
• Saturday: $4800 Friday or Sunday: $4000
• Membership: $60
• Security Staff: $330
• Security & Cleaning Deposit: $500 (refundable)
• Total for Saturday: $5690 ($500 is refundable deposit)
• Total for Friday or Sunday: $4890 ($500 is refundable deposit)

 Click here for more info about the Upper Garden Venue

Lower Garden Venue 

The JFG’s impressive Lower Garden is the perfect setting for any event with both indoor and outdoors areas.  Clients and guests will have access to Lower Garden areas below.

The Spaces Within the Lower Garden:

• The Inamori Pavilion
• Pavilion Viewing Deck
• Garden Paths & Earth Bridge
• Pavilion Courtyard
• Bridal Room / Green Room
• Multiple Stalled Restrooms

Example Quote Lower Garden

Here is a sample quotes for the paid portion of time at the JFG’s most popular rentals, and account for an hour of set up and hour of clean up.

Ceremony and Reception:

• Recommended at least 7 hours. Maximum 9 hours.
• Most popular rental: 8 hours
• Saturday: $6800 Friday or Sunday: $6000
• Membership: $60
• Security Staff: $450
• Pavilion Fee: $450
• Security & Cleaning Deposit: $800 (refundable)
• Total for Saturday: $8560 ($800 is refundable deposit)
• Total for Friday or Sunday: $7760 ($800 is refundable deposit)

Click here for more info about the Lower Garden Venue

Contact: Christina Zakimi, Event & Marketing Coordinator
Phone: (619) 232-2780
Email: private-events@niwa.org

Request Venue information

 A special thank you to our amazing photographers

True Photography

LEAF Wedding Photography