Japanese Friendship Garden

Select services venue

The venue will provide the space, plus a few extras.

Full wedding (ceremony and reception) pricing

Starting at $2,000

Guest capacity

Up to 248 seated guests

About this venue

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. The Japanese Friendship garden features winding pathways and authentic Japanese garden features, including koi ponds, waterfalls, bonsai, cherry trees and wisteria arbors.

Seated guest capacity

1-248

Venue type

Ballrooms, Banquet Halls
Parks, Gardens

Venue setting

Indoor
Outdoor

2215 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101

Our event spaces

Inamori Pavilion

The Inamori Pavilion is an indoor space with an outdoor feel, perfect for receptions. The location could also work great for a ceremony as well. Area includes a deck for guests to walk around, enjoying the gorgeous scenery and waterfall. Seated Reception: 200 (+30 if no dance floor) (+50 if Ceremony off-site) Cocktail Reception: 300 Ceremony: 250 (Room can be divided in half for small events)

Guest capacity

Up to 200 Seated

Up to 300 Standing

Pavilion Courtyard

This area, located right outside the Inamori Pavilion, is a great spot for outdoor events. The Pavilion Courtyard also serves as the main site for ceremonies. Ceremony: 250 / Seated Reception: 100 / Cocktail Reception: 250

Guest capacity

Up to 100 Seated

Up to 250 Standing

Pavilion Viewing Deck

This outdoor deck of the Inamori Pavilion is an ideal place to walk around for cocktail hour. Guests can enjoy the gorgeous scenery and waterfall of the Lower Garden.

Graden Paths & Earth Bridge

Our Lower Gardens include a beautiful path where guests can stroll during their cocktail hour exploring a variety of plants and flowers along side a charming stream. Our Earth Bridge can also serve as an exquisite ceremony spot for those interested in intimate weddings. Guests are only allowed to stand during the ceremony, except for those who are handicapped. It’s also the perfect place for photos after the ceremony

Guest capacity

80-120 Seated

Koi Pond & Moon Viewing Deck

Nestled beneath the fujidana (wisteria arbor) and surrounded by the serene sounds of the waterfall, the Koi Pond is a favorite spot for wedding ceremonies and cocktail receptions. Ceremony: 85 / Cocktail Reception: 150 (200 when Exhibit Hall is also rented)

Guest capacity

Up to 80 Seated

Up to 150 Standing

Ceremonial Gate

The majestic backdrop of the Charles C. Dail Memorial Gate is the perfect location for large ceremonies and cocktail receptions. The Ceremonial Gate is a magnificent location surrounded by trees with a view of the towering Corinthian columns of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Ceremony: 100 (+200 extended seating) / Cocktail Reception: 200

Guest capacity

Up to 100 Seated

Up to 200 Standing

Reception Plaza

Our open air Reception Plaza is the perfect spot for a reception under the stars. The area includes a deck overlooking the plaza that can be used as an entertainment stage. Spring events can enjoy wisteria blossoms on the wooden fujidana (arbor).

Guest capacity

Up to 200 Seated

Up to 300 Standing