Kubota Garden

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-seattle

The 16 Best Things to Do in Seattle

"Hidden fountains, bright-red bridges, koi darting about elegant ponds. At Kubota Garden, 20 acres of gorgeous Japanese gardens await visitors willing to make the trip to the Rainier Beach neighborhood in South Seattle. First started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, the complex is now part of Seattle’s public park system. Make time to wander; an incredible number of native Northwest flowers, shrubs, and trees grow amid the interweaving paths. Just know that the 15 minute drive each way can grow to 30 or more minutes in traffic." - Naomi Tomky, Jenna Scatena

The Best Things to Do in Seattle

@afar

"Pacific Northwest plants and Asian aesthetics merge in this stunning 20-acre landscape, secreted away in the South Seattle neighborhood of Rainier Beach. Japanese immigrant Fujitaro Kubota started the garden on a brush-choked, logged-off swamp, which he couldn't even legally own because of discriminatory laws (a sympathetic friend helped out). After spending World War II in an Idaho internment camp, the visionary gardener crafted the graceful streams and waterfalls of the 65-foot-high Mountainside feature. Kubota later added ornamental bridges and a moon-viewing platform. After his death, the city declared his masterwork a historic landmark and eventually took it over as a public park. Free admission, open year-round."

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/seattle/kubota-garden

Kubota Garden – Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture here? Hidden fountains. Bright-red bridges. Koi darting about elegant ponds. At Kubota Garden, 20 acres of gorgeous Japanese gardens await visitors willing to make the trip to the Rainier Beach neighborhood in South Seattle. First started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, the complex is now part of Seattle’s public park system. What's the best way to experience it? Make time to wander. An incredible number of native Northwest flowers, shrubs, and trees grow amid the interweaving paths at Kubota. Was it easy to get around? While some tiered paths and small bridges may present challenges for disabled visitors, the majority of the garden is simple to move around and accessible to everyone. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? The gardening skills on display at this plant lover's wonderland will impress even fervent indoor people. But it takes 30 minutes to get here from downtown (and 30 minutes back), so if you don’t have a spare hour, stick to closer parks." - Jessica Voelker

https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/kubota-garden

Designed by master landscaper Fujitaro Kubota, this 20-acre landmark blends Japanese garden craft with Northwest plantings. Celebrated by local writers and community stewards, its bridges, waterfalls, and koi ponds feel miles from the city.

Best Parks in Seattle (2025)

https://kubotagarden.org/visit.html

A 20‑acre public Japanese American garden founded by master landscaper Fujitaro Kubota. Free daily and celebrated by Condé Nast Traveler and local outlets, it blends Northwest flora with Japanese design—bridges, cascades, and seasonal color in the Rainier Beach hills.

Free Attractions in Seattle (2025)

Nathan Cole

Google

Loved this place, found it very peaceful, quiet, and relaxing. This place is insanely beautiful and massive. It just keeps going and going. Thought we'd be able to see it all but ran out of time, maybe next time. It's a good waking place for all ages and tons to see and take in. Kids will probably like the fish they have there in the ponds. There are tons of cool bridges to cross over and paths that feel like you're in a whole other world. Truly is a work of art, and I'm thankful that this place is here. Grate place for portrait photos or nature photos. Loved being able to walk and explore at no cost. Cool that it doesn't cost any money.

Mikhaila Tobin

Google

A beautiful Japanese garden snuggled into Seattle's residential area. This place feels like a mini oasis. It's very expansive with lots of walking trails, ponds, foot bridges, and plants. A must for dates, to clear your head, or simply to get some fresh air. They also have flush toilets in a building and picnic tables if you want to bring your lunch and enjoy some quiet time.

Dan's Inferno

Google

This botanical garden is amazingly large, given its urban setting. Tastefully laid out and wonderfully serene. The water features and plants are a draw enough, but my favorite aspect of the garden is the incredible maze of trails throughout the entire space. This is the sort of place that kids and kids-at-heart will relish. Around every corner is a slightly hidden path up and down through the trees, interconnecting around large bushes and over the water. This is a gem of a place for sure, and it's free to access. There is a small parking lot at the entrance.

Denise Kester

Google

My first trip here was in the summer, and the trees were all beautifully shaped, and there were a lot of beautiful flowers. Friends have told me the spring is the best time to come to see maximum flowers. I walked the gardens early in the morning and I saw only one other couple. There are live koi in a pond. There is a view into thr city from one hill. If you wander without a map, you could spend well over an hour meandering around the trails. Coming from different directions, the same trail will look completely different. When youre inside the park, its hard to believe you're in Seattle.

H S

Google

The Kubota Garden is equal to an hour with a psychologist or therapist. It is a sauna for the soul and feeds a healthy spirit. There was though a mallard duck who was injured by a fox moments before we entered its section of the garden. I reported this via email but I have not heard back as to where or not anyone corrected the positioning of the injured wing. It is such a beautiful little duck. I hope it heals well and lives a long life unharmed.

Natasha Lunin

Google

Peaceful, Lush, and Absolutely Breathtaking Kubota Garden is a hidden gem in Seattle. The Japanese maples alone are worth the visit—lush, sculptural, and glowing with color in every season. The entire space is so thoughtfully designed, blending natural Pacific Northwest beauty with serene Japanese landscaping. Waterfalls, stone paths, wooden bridges… it’s like walking through a living painting. Perfect for quiet walks, photography, or just soaking in some peace. Free and unforgettable.

Steven

Google

One beautiful garden with a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs. The entrance to the garden is inviting, then there is a giant bell to the right. The mazy trail gets to different places with beautiful flowers, waterfalls, and ponds inside this magnificent garden. The staff does a great job with the landscaping and taking care of this place. I highly recommend anyone visiting Seattle to come by and check it out.

Jana Goad

Google

We love this garden! Best to go on a weekday to avoid parking issues because the parking lot is small. The garden has many water features that are each such a joy to see. We find it a very relaxing garden to stroll through and enjoy the sights and sounds of the running water.

Zarifa A.

Yelp

Kubota Garden is actually a really nice, free garden. From the outside, it doesn't look that big but it's decently sized. The garden itself is beautiful and is great for a nice afternoon stroll. Overall, I'd recommend checking this out! They also have a decently sized parking lot which is a plus as well.

Gabe J.

Yelp

1. FREE 2. BEAUTIFUL 3. Enjoy the setting with family, friends, loved ones or by yourself. It has some easy short trails and the pond is absolutely gorgeous. Great for pictures!

Han H.

Yelp

Great little get-away tucked into the city. It's so zen (duh!) But please, be considerate and keep the zen when you show up. Went with a friend on a super hot August afternoon and there was this HUGE LOUD group and it was just ruining the vibe. Would go on a weekday if I lived closer. So ingenious to think that before all the plants grew, someone could ENVISION the potential it had and planned out the whole garden.

Susan C.

Yelp

This is a beautiful hidden gem- lovely trails and absolutely incredible plants and trees. It is so well- maintained! It's a great place to snap photos for your Christmas card, or practice your photography. Check out Kubota Garden, it's worth it!

Taylor J.

Yelp

It still was pretty in the winter but I would like to return in the spring. The grounds were well maintained. I loved the water features. It was dog friendly. My pup and I really enjoyed it. I think iy would have been nice to learn a little more about the plants or Japanese culture.

Barb K.

Yelp

Delicious food and great service. Very friendly staff and pleasant atmosphere. I would definitely recommend them !

Kevin E.

Yelp

Very large public Japanese style garden. It was free! Perfect for a nice stroll. It included water features. One day they hosted a sculpture sale. Some pieces were very reasonably priced, downright cheap. Beautiful setting to enjoy the art. Driving up to the park we were thinking the directions were wrong because it looked residential but then there it was! Free parking available off the street. Real bathrooms near the entrance.

Teresa G.

Yelp

Had a relaxing afternoon stroll with a co-worker and this place did not disappoint. There is ample parking and just heed the signs reminding not to leave valuables in your car. This is located in a residential area and it's pretty quiet but it is open to the public so take precaution. There were signs announcing some activities occuring on weekends. The surroundings are well-maintained and clean. We wished there were more signs to provide directions. The different layers of trees, shrubs, and bushes, lend a monochromatic green palette as a backdrop. A splash of color here and there is rendered beautifully by occasional flowering plants, or a red bridge over a koi pond, or a metal bell on display, or a calming waterfall. All of these sights and sounds make for a perfect end to a weeklong work trip.

Alden C.

Yelp

I have to bump up a star for the Kubota Garden. It's been several years since I was last here and I think I picked a perfect time to come here as many Rhododendrons were in bloom to enhance the lay out of the gardens. Seems like it depends on what time of year you go and what blossoms you may see but that is always a plus if you come here in the late spring and early summer. Not that the gardens are unattractive without anything flowering but it just makes the experience all the more beautiful. I love the Japanese style bridges and the koi. The waterfalls are very tranquil and a feast for the eyes. Admission is free so that is definitely something to utilize as the Kubota Gardens are far from your typical parks. Despite quite a few visitors coming here you can still get the feeling of solitude walking the paths at certain moments.

Cheryl H.

Yelp

Fabulous gardens with hidden paths, lots of ponds and bridges, exquisite design. we went in the winter and it was still incredibly beautiful!

Alisa B.

Yelp

What a beautiful garden! Definitely come during the spring time to see all of the blooms. If you love plum blossoms as much as me, you will be fawning at every tree! This garden is very easy to get lost in. It was much bigger than expected. My friend and I got lost very easily. Try to find the orange "exit" signs or use a map to remember where the parking lot is!

Sylvia Y.

Yelp

During my latest visit to Seattle, I wanted to check out places that were a bit off the main tourist circuit. I'm so glad I came across Kubota Garden. It's a beautiful Japanese garden that's well maintained. Free admission and free parking. What's not to love?

MIKE W.

Yelp

Very nice place for an afternoon walk! Beautiful gardens in a not so great neighborhood!

Janice W.

Yelp

Kubota Garden is absolutely phenomenal, free of charge and beautiful scenery (in all types of weather). I love to hit this track for a great source of exercise! I took a walk there not too long ago and it was a blast!

Yadi G.

Yelp

Washington has the best park system. I went to these gardens on a rainy gross morning and was happy to have it all to myself. It is nicely kept, quiet and big enough for a long walk.

Victoria H.

Yelp

We had such a lovely time :3 I've seen a lot of i Japanese gardens being from california but I think this is one of my new favorites! Maybe just behind the balboa park gardens in San Diego.

Rosi A.

Yelp

It's a wonderful and substantially less crowded alternative to the Arboretum's Japanese garden. While it is a bit outside of Seattle, it is worth a detour if you are looking for a beautifully maintained space. Lots of winding paths to get lost in thoughts on, lots of great angles to admire the plants lovingly collected here. I bet it is gorgeous caleidoscope of colors in the fall.

Alice K.

Yelp

Surprisingly larger than expected. Came by for quick stroll before heading to airport to return rental car. Wished had more time to explore. Lovely fall color. As others mentioned, small parking lot, some parts under construction. Saw sign to not leave valuables in sight as car break-ins are common.

Jay S.

Yelp

It is a pretty Japanese gardens. There are nice walking path through out the gardens. There are new rest rooms and picnic tables area.

Lo P.

Yelp

A perfect place for peace and calm. Beautiful scenes with a Great Koi pond. I brought a blanket that day,a bottle of wine,some cheese crackers and a good book.It was total bliss for me. I made the experience a once a month appointment.

Nicole K.

Yelp

Awesome garden! Very well kept. My partner and I went here last year and again a few days ago with our daughter when we were in the area and I was reminded how great this place is! I love to walk on the bridges and the different pathways. It's a super great sensory experience if you like walking on different stepping stones and stuff, or if you just like being around nature! Also, did I mention that it's free to visit?!

Michael A.

Yelp

Second visit to this location and of course, everyone else had to come. Found one last parking space inside or else you had to park on the street. It was wicked hot on a Saturday afternoon! 6/04/22. Arrived at 12:00 PM. Went to take some Graduation pictures. Pretty clean park and walking trails were very nice. It was well kept. The only negative is always the parking! Full of people, cars and not enough space at all. There are always a lot of people driving around, looking for a parking space. If they don't find one, they force themselves to street parking or near the construction area. Wish they would build a bigger lot!! Such a frickin' hassle. Good, peaceful and calm garden to walk around in. Nothing too special, though. Has some good views and surroundings for taking pictures.

Coors L.

Yelp

Always a crowd pleaser anytime of the year. Kudos to those who've chosen which plants and where.

Chris C.

Yelp

Super pretty garden with amazing views especially during the fall would 100% recommend totally worth the walk

Blessie V.

Yelp

A nice and free escape from the city center with ample parking. It's big enough to get lost and to get your zen on, yet small enough to not feel absolutely overwhelmed. When I went, the hydragenas were in full bloom and the trees were all green. I bet that it would look even more gorgeous in the fall, when the colors of the leaves change. I'll be back then :)

Kimmy L.

Yelp

Note that Kubota Garden IS OPEN during COVID. This was my first time visiting Kubota Garden. My parents had been here before they were married (so a long time ago lol). While this garden isn't quite like the gardens in Japan, it does have a nice variety of bridges and stone structures. The park is public and free. It's 20 acres, but it feels smaller. The park maintenance is okay... it's clean and does not have litter or dog poop on the ground. However, there is lots of algae growing in the ponds. There is a small parking lot as well as street parking. Since the park isn't super big, people go in and out fairly frequently. The park is dog-friendly and small picnic-friendly. It will probably get more crowded next month when the flowers start to bloom. Overall, it's a good 20 minute stroll. The ground is flat and so it's perfect for families and people of all ages.

Gina B.

Yelp

I haven't been to many Japanese Gardens, but they tend to be mainly trees, rocks, maybe sand, & some water. It's not the same as a typical botanic garden filled with colorful flowers & maybe even fruity trees, so I wasn't expecting that. Yes, the parking lot is small so we had to parallel park on the outskirts on a small street. However, there is no entrance fee, and this garden is bigger than I expected. Its maze of walking paths lead to various areas of green lawns, small ponds, cute bridges, plenty of trees (some short ones with big canopies you can sit under), & even tinier paths going up steep hills that lead to the top of a waterfall. There is a lot to explore here if you keep an open mind. I went on a day where it was raining off and on, and I still found it to be beautiful. Imagine what it's like when the weather is nice!

Sylvia B.

Yelp

Breathtaking! Worth every step! What a way to end a week in Seattle! And it is free! So grateful!

Natasha R.

Yelp

I love Kubota Garden. It is a tranquil place, well maintained, peaceful, and gorgeous. It is free to roam - they do have a donation box. Bring a snack, a book, and enjoy the space. I suggest going early on a weekday, you'll have the place largely to yourself.

John M.

Yelp

A beautiful garden that seems to be hidden in South Seattle. Grew up near here and never knew about it. It's big but you wouldn't know it looking at it from the outside. You can easily spend a day wandering through here and not see everything. It's really nice and serene there.

Ariel C.

Yelp

This place is so much bigger than I thought it would be, absolutely blown away by the beauty and elegance of this place. Great way to start or end a day. Scenic, easy stroll. 1000% better than the Portland Japanese Garden. And free. come here, you wont regret it

Nami N.

Yelp

Mostly peaceful beautiful Japanese Garden here Kubota Garden. I love this place. It is open year-round and admission is free. But parking lot closed and keep a social distance during COVID-19 now. There is a series of ponds fed by Mapes Creek, waterfalls and bridges. I came here every season. So beautiful and good to take photos of weeding, graduation, date or celebration. Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.

Abbey O.

Yelp

I would have never expected to find this gem of a park in this area! We went in April so it was a little cold and muddy, so I can imagine coming back for a picnic in summer would be so nice. Its odd to see people thought this park was boring... it is huge! You can keep walking and discovering new features for hours. There are bridges, rivers, waterfalls, structures, flowers, and all kinds of wildlife. It would be a really cute spot for family pictures, an engagement shoot, or photos for any special occasion.

Crystal H.

Yelp

J- Kubota Garden is a hidden gem in Seattle. I was pleasantly surprised on how well this Japanese garden was taken care of for being free. There are multiple little trails but always lead you into the main garden. There are lots of benches and nice grass areas to sit and relax. There are some pretty big sized koi fish! Did you know koi fish are domesticated carp? There's also some common carp in the ponds too. The Japanese features are nice. Very tranquil place with soothing waterfall sounds in the background. You should definitely go here while you're visiting.

Jordan V.

Yelp

Garden is beautiful but APPARENTLY CAR PROWLING IS A CONSTANT ISSUE! Back window busted out of rental car and purse stolen. The police do not care about this either. Did not see reviews about previous occasions and wish I did!

Emily M.

Yelp

***WARNING**** The person who is breaking into vehicles lives at 5104 S. Garden Loop Rd. Seattle, WA 98118. I tracked my laptop. My husband and I were there less than 20 minutes and our vehicle got broken into. I was able to locate where my laptop was, however we could not wait for officers, because we could not miss our flight home. The community the house is located at backs right into the garden trails. This person watches you when you arrive and quickly goes into work.

Peg C.

Yelp

It took me 25 years of living in Seattle to finally visit the Kubota Garden this fall. Man, I wish I hadn't waited this long but my hubs and I went at just the perfect time, in early October, when the leaves on the maple trees had turned into bright hues of red, rust, and orange. It was the best day to visit. As soon as we walked through the garden gates, our breaths were taken away by the immense beauty before us. It was like a dream. I am not kidding or being facetious. It is that beautiful. I was so amazed by the garden that once I got home, I went online and looked up their foundation and gave a donation. I never do that but that fateful day in October, I did. Now, I'm looking forward to visiting the garden in spring and summer. I still can't believe a public garden like this exists in Seattle. It's truly a special and magical place. Go and see it!

Mack S.

Yelp

Wonderful Wonderful gardens. 20 acres of beautiful paths, trees, ponds and water features. Family and dog friendly.

MY V.

Yelp

Nice vist to Kubota Garden if you have time to kill and are in the area. This free Garden is very nice and clean. Great place to go for a walk or to meditate. Nice walking trail to see all of the different landscaping from waterfalls to ponds, which has koi fishes. Also, nice place for portraits to be taken if you need senior pictures, engagements, or just random pictures. I am not sure if they do offer seasonal events at the Garden. Even though the garden is free, donations is recommended to upkeep the garden! Plenty of parking depending on the time and day you go. I am sure they get pack and busy. Highly recommend Kubota Garden for all seasons!

Dawn G.

Yelp

Kubota Garden is a great place to find some beauty and peace within the city. Its grounds are exceptionally well-maintained and expansive. There are a lot of winding trails and garden sections and it can be a bit of a challenge to make sure I don't miss any as I try to visit each spot. You can make it a quick trip and see most of the sections within an hour but I recommend a more extended stay to chill in your favorite spot. The garden has a lot to offer and plenty of space for groups to wander. Some of the more popular photography spots (like that gorgeous Japanese Maple) can get a little busy but you'll find an opportunity to take that photo. My favorite seasons to visit are Spring when the rhododendrons are blooming and of course in the Fall when the leaves change color. It can be quite a spectacular sight when the trees are showing off their red, orange, and yellow! Not to be missed.

David B.

Yelp

Fantastic Japanese garden a few minutes from SeaTac airport. Rather than around the airport fir a couple if hours, we visited this old wonderful public garden . Very nice walk in a zen themed garden. Afterwards we dropped the rental car off and got to the airport in a great frame of mind.

Thomas R.

Yelp

Can't wait to see this place in spring. What a gem and free!? Wow. Peaceful and just a pleasure to walk around. I'll be back when everything blooms and again in fall when everything turns.

Teresa M.

Yelp

Absolutely beautiful Japanese garden that's well maintained and has plenty to see! We went in the early morning; a few people there, but for the most part we had the garden to ourselves. The quiet made it a great time for animal sightings, bunnies throughout, a few dragonflies, turtles & koi in the ponds, etc. There's a few areas where you can go right up to the pond and a lot of the fish aren't shy at all! I'm sure they're looking for food (seriously don't feed them!), but either way they're happy to come right up to the edge and see what's going on. TONS of places to sit down and just kinda watch the world go by, kinda a mindful contemplation kinda place. Good amount of parking, but I have a feeling this place gets busy in the nice afternoons! Definitely an easy to get to location that's worth the drive to get to!

Jacques I.

Yelp

Kubota Garden is such a wonderful and beautiful garden/city park in south Seattle that everyone in the Puget Sound area must visit. The moment you step inside, you're immediately transported into a serene setting, hidden away with acres of greenery. It's east to get lost here because you want to look at every plant, every tree, walk every trail, etc... But it's actually easy to get around and you won't get lost in the sense of direction! I recommend spending a few hours here to really get through the entire garden. The garden has a lot of different trails, and there is a map at the entrance that you can follow. There is a parking lot, but does get full on busy days. Free admission since it's a city park, but you can donate to help with the upkeep of this gorgeous place. There's a pond area with koi fish, curved bridges to walk over, waterfalls, huge open spaces for picnics, areas to hide and read a book, a covered area that feels like the woods with the surrounding of trees, a covered deck area that overlooks the garden for events and whatnot, water fountains, a portable bathroom area and it's dog-friendly. There is everything here to get away and find solace. We're very fortunate to have Kubota Garden in Seattle.

Rena Z.

Yelp

Love this garden. So clean and well kept. Absolutely beautiful and I am definitely going back

Jboogie L.

Yelp

Enjoyed walking in this free garden spot. The neighborhood can be a little sketchy i felt safe. They offer events for kids, adults and the community. Newly bulit bathrooms and some picnic tables along the back area. There is also a pagoda like area that overlooks the pond (I spotted one koi). We came for the soapstone event and everybody had fun.

James B.

Yelp

Free amazing Japanese Garden. Go on all the little foot paths and experience the place. There are some beautiful flowers and fun ponds and tiny waterfalls. Go here if you've the time to spare.

Danica S.

Yelp

I grew up in Columbia City and don't remember visiting this beautiful hidden gem. What a joy it was to bring our little family during Spring break. It wasn't crowded and although it's in the city, you feel farther away and get "lost" in the beauty surrounding you. My favorite part was the hidden Coi pond and wish my camera captured a better photo of the fish. Our pup and little one enjoyed crossing the step stones and bridges. We took photos under the cabanas and sat on many hidden benches. It was lovely to return to South Seattle and see a garden without litter and tents. Surprisingly, it gave me hope for our city.

Aida G.

Yelp

Pretty garden, great to walk with kids! There are all kind of trees and so many bridges

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The 16 Best Things to Do in Seattle

The Best Things to Do in Seattle

@afar

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/seattle/kubota-garden

Kubota Garden – Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/kubota-garden

Best Parks in Seattle (2025)

https://kubotagarden.org/visit.html

Free Attractions in Seattle (2025)