The Japanese Friendship Garden in San Jose's Kelley Park was built in the 1960's and has been a local treasure ever since.
The Friendship Garden is a place that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. It is a great place to have a picnic, or enjoy a quiet moment with a good book. The exotic koi fish that swim in the garden ponds are wonderful.
There are feeding stations (converted gum ball machines) that allow visitors to purchase food and feed the fish. Feeding the koi is a great activity for kids. The koi are beautifully colored and some of them are ENORMOUS! The koi swarm at your feet when the food pellets are dropped into the water. Some of the fish will even take a pellet right from your fingers!!
The gardens are beautiful. There are pathways winding past waterfalls and through artfully created gardens. The high arched bridge near the entrance to the park is a popular spot for wedding photographs.
The overall feeling here is welcoming and serene. The gardens are beautiful and meticulously well-maintained. But the garden does not feel "sterile" and unwelcoming like some Japanese gardens. There is a real sense that this place belongs to the people who live here.
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