Photographing San Francisco: Digital Field Guide

Chapter 13. Japanese Tea Garden

A view of the Japanese Tea Garden on a slightly overcast fall afternoon. Taken at ISO 200, f/8, 1/160 second with a 14–24mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

The Japanese Tea Garden, located in Golden Gate Park, is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States. The garden is wonderfully landscaped complete with quaint bridges, sunken ponds, waterfalls, and statues. The two main seasons to visit the tea garden are the spring and fall months. The spring months delight you with cherry trees in full bloom, along with many other tree varieties and flowers. The fall season is another wonderful time to photograph the tea garden. When the weather turns cold in late October, the garden's greenery is kindled by the glow of fleeting fall color. The red fiery tones of maple leaves and the golden foliage of ginkgoes serve as reminders that fall is a vibrant season in Golden Gate Park. What makes the Japanese Tea Garden worth a photograph? The garden is made up of colorful landscaping: winding paths, atmospheric bridges, ornamental lanterns, ornate gateways, gentle slopes, and tranquil water. All these things combined with soft overcast light can create a wonderful photo filled with vibrant colors, textures, and form.

Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

The best place to photograph the Japanese Tea Garden is from Tea Garden Drive in Golden Gate Park (see A on the ...