Tsutakawa Japanese Garden Nishinomiya
A tranquil Japanese garden in Spokane's Manito Park, offering serene beauty, koi ponds, and seasonal blooms.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch vibrant blooms
Tsutakawa Japanese Garden Nishinomiya
Best Time
Catch vibrant blooms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Japanese garden in Spokane's Manito Park, offering serene beauty, koi ponds, and seasonal blooms.
"A Spokane icon and treasure for locals and tourists alike. Peaceful scenery intentionally designed."
🌸 Catch the Blooms
Visit in spring for azaleas or fall for vibrant foliage. Check bloom reports for peak times!
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander, find a bench, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for quiet reflection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koi Pond
Central pond
Watch vibrant koi fish glide through the serene waters, a quintessential element of Japanese garden design.
Stone Lanterns & Bridges
Throughout the garden
Discover traditional Japanese garden elements like weathered stone lanterns and charming arched bridges.
Seasonal Blooms
Various garden beds
Experience the garden's transformation with colorful flowers in spring and stunning foliage in autumn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Catch the Blooms
Visit in spring for azaleas or fall for vibrant foliage. Check bloom reports for peak times!
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander, find a bench, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for quiet reflection.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the serene beauty with your camera, especially during golden hour for magical light.
☕ Nearby Treats
Pair your visit with a coffee and pastry from Rockwood Bakery for a perfect autumn outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Catch the Blooms
Visit in spring for azaleas or fall for vibrant foliage. Check bloom reports for peak times!
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander, find a bench, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for quiet reflection.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the serene beauty with your camera, especially during golden hour for magical light.
☕ Nearby Treats
Pair your visit with a coffee and pastry from Rockwood Bakery for a perfect autumn outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden for its serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it a cherished spot for reflection and photography. However, some recent reviews express concern over the maintenance of the koi pond's water quality, which has impacted the experience for a portion of visitors.
"The water is so gross! Literally looks like bottom of a honey bucket. Ducks won't even go in. Way beyond any reasonable threshold. How could anyone let this get so bad? Looks poisonous to fish and anything else. Restrooms closed "out of order", honey bucket outside of bathrooms and it's full."
Ed
"The fish pond is normally better than this, but the water conditions are unsafe for the Koi fish and they are coming up onto the surface of the water to show that they are in survival mode. The water has an oil like film on top of it and algae bubbles which means there is an imbalance in the water. this is not safe for the fish and needs to be talked about more. apparently, the staff don’t know what safe water conditions are for their fish. The park will not last longer if the maintenance stays like this!"
Marley Shaw
"A Spokane icon and treasure for locals and tourists alike. Peaceful scenery intentionally designed with a calming waterfall and pond filled with beautiful koi fish."
Jaime M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located within Manito Park at 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA. It's easily accessible by car, and there's ample parking within the park. Public transportation options are also available; check Spokane Transit Authority for routes and schedules. 
Yes, Manito Park offers parking areas throughout the park, making it convenient to access the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden.
Absolutely! The garden is a beautiful part of Manito Park, and you can easily walk to it from other areas like the Rose Hill Garden or the Gaiser Conservatory.
Manito Park is well-signed. Look for signs directing you to the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, typically located in the west corner of the park.
The garden paths are generally paved and relatively flat, making them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some areas might have slight inclines.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden and Manito Park is free! It's a public park open for everyone to enjoy.
The garden is typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM during the season. It's always a good idea to check the official Spokane Parks website for the most up-to-date hours.
The garden is generally open seasonally. While it's beautiful in all seasons, it's most vibrant during spring and fall. Check park hours for specific opening dates.
Yes, occasionally there are special events like watercolor workshops held in the garden during peaceful evenings. Keep an eye on local event listings.
Typically, pets are not allowed inside the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden itself to preserve its delicate environment. However, leashed dogs are usually permitted in other areas of Manito Park. Please check park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire garden offers beautiful photo opportunities. Focus on the koi pond, the stone lanterns, the bridges, and the seasonal blooms for stunning shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! Capture the serene beauty and share your experiences.
While personal photography is welcome, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. It's best to check with Spokane Parks if you plan on professional shoots.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and tranquility. It's advisable to check Spokane Parks' official policy on drones before flying one.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The main activity is to enjoy the peaceful ambiance, admire the landscaping, watch the koi fish, and find a quiet spot for reflection or reading.
Yes, it's a family-friendly spot, but it's important to remind children to be respectful of the quiet atmosphere and delicate plants.
Restrooms are typically available within Manito Park, though they may occasionally be closed for maintenance. Portable restrooms might be available as an alternative. [^Review]
The garden was proposed in 1965 and completed in 1974, designed by Nagao Sakurai. It symbolizes the friendship between Spokane and its sister city, Nishinomiya, Japan.
You'll find a variety of Japanese-inspired flora, including maples, pines, azaleas, and other carefully curated greenery that changes with the seasons.
🎫 💧 Water Features & Maintenance
Recent reviews indicate concerns about the water quality in the koi pond, with some visitors noting it appears murky or has an oily film, potentially impacting the fish. [^Review]
Some visitors have observed the koi fish appearing stressed or struggling in the pond, suggesting potential issues with water balance and safety for the fish. [^Review]
There are concerns raised by visitors about the lack of apparent maintenance for the water features. It's recommended to contact Spokane Parks directly for information on their maintenance plans. [^Review]
Feeding the koi fish is generally not permitted in Japanese gardens to maintain water quality and the fish's health. Please refrain from feeding them. [^Review]
While the garden is a beloved spot, recent visitor feedback suggests that maintenance, particularly of the water features, may not be up to par. [^Review]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to encourage children to walk quietly and respect the garden's serene environment. Nearby, Manito Park offers playgrounds and other attractions, making it easy to combine a visit to the Japanese Garden with more active play for the kids. Pack some snacks and enjoy a relaxing family stroll.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon to capture the most dramatic and flattering light. Be mindful of other visitors seeking tranquility, and always respect the garden's environment. While personal photography is welcome, check with Spokane Parks for any regulations regarding commercial shoots or drone usage.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with yourself. The beauty of the garden, from the gliding koi to the carefully pruned trees, offers a calming visual experience that can be deeply restorative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Symbol of Friendship
+1Visitors can appreciate the deliberate design choices, from the carefully placed stones and plants to the serene water features. The garden's layout encourages a sense of peace and contemplation, inviting visitors to slow down and connect with nature. It serves as a peaceful retreat within the larger Manito Park, offering a unique cultural experience for all who visit.
While the garden is celebrated for its beauty, recent visitor feedback has highlighted concerns regarding the maintenance of its water features, particularly the koi pond. Addressing these concerns is crucial to preserving the garden's intended serene environment and ensuring the well-being of its aquatic inhabitants. [^Review]
Experiencing the Garden's Seasons
As summer arrives, the garden provides a lush, green sanctuary, perfect for a peaceful stroll on a warm day. The mature trees offer ample shade, making it a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility. Fall, however, is often considered a highlight, with the Japanese maples and other deciduous trees transforming into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and yellows. This seasonal spectacle draws many visitors seeking to witness the vibrant autumn foliage.
Even in winter, the garden possesses a quiet, understated beauty. The stark branches of the trees against a possible snowy backdrop can offer a different, serene perspective. While some plants may be dormant, the underlying structure and design of the garden remain, providing a peaceful escape year-round.
Navigating Visitor Feedback
+1However, a recurring theme in recent reviews points to concerns about the maintenance of the garden's water features, specifically the koi pond. Visitors have expressed disappointment with the water's clarity and have noted signs of stress in the koi fish, suggesting potential issues with water quality and balance. This aspect has detracted from the experience for some, who feel it impacts the garden's overall appeal and the well-being of its inhabitants. [^Review]
Despite these maintenance concerns, the garden remains a cherished local treasure and a worthwhile destination for those seeking a tranquil escape. It's advisable for potential visitors to be aware of these mixed reviews and perhaps contact Spokane Parks for the latest updates on maintenance efforts to ensure the most enjoyable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit