National Bonsai & Penjing Museum

This place is absolutely wonderful and full of beauty and history! However, during my recent visit, I noticed a few things that could really use some attention: Some roads were randomly closed with no signs or clear directions, which made getting around a bit frustrating. Phone calls go straight to a prerecorded message, so it’s hard to get any real-time help or information. The only accessible entrance to the parking lot near the Bonsai Pavilion seems to be from R Street — clearer signage would be really helpful here. There’s a large wasp nest near the entrance to the Bonsai Pavilion area. This is a safety issue, and even if the site is unstaffed, pest control should be contacted to have it safely removed. The iconic columns area, which is truly a highlight, has a non-working fountain. This space could be incredibly inspiring for patriotic events or other important national days — if only the fountain were running! It’s such a missed opportunity. It’s clear that this place has great potential, and with a bit more active management and attention to detail, it could truly shine even brighter.

FREE of the beaten path! Nice place for a walk around the grounds. But 2 areas are kinda far and seems like you might as well drive. I rather walk but the park is huge. People go there to run. Not sure if you can bike, but that would be nice. I really love bonsai trees, so I'll have to say that was my favorite area. Definitely read other reviews because there's areas that didn't seem interesting to look in. Maybe it was the time of year ( may). It looks like they do events, unsure what kind.

Beautifully kept gardens! Loved the bonsai exhibit! Wasn’t busy when we went and the bathrooms were clean as well! The walk was very peaceful.

Beautiful bonsai collection that is one of the highlights of the arboretum. Yamaki pine is collection’s highlight. There is air conditioned visitor center right next to the museum. National herb garden in front of museum is a magnet for many visitors.

The ancient Yamaki Pine (since 1625!) alone is worth visiting this remarkable FREE living museum. I got goosebumps reading about it. Note that it closes earlier than the rest of the arboretum.

The bonsai museum is so well curated and maintained, with a lot of unique bonsai trees organized in Japanese and Chinese sections. There's also a couple other plants scattered throughout and we'll shaped gardens to walk through. You can easily spend an hour walking through looking at the different trees! There is a lack of shade so be prepared with water if it's a sunny day!

Beautiful and serene. Seeing the Yamaki Pine that survived the atomic bomb is surreal.

Free entrance. Easy parking. Amazing history. Some of these are generational. Must visit for enthusiasts.