It’s hard to believe this lovely, tranquil place was originally just a clever way to hide a hole in the ground. Almost 100 years ago, an eyesore of a quarry was transformed into a Japanese-style strolling garden, with stone bridges, floral displays and a 60ft waterfall. Meant to be enjoyed year-round, the garden is especially pretty in spring, when the flowers are in bloom.
Japanese Tea Garden
San Antonio
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
2.5 MILES
For proud Texans, the much-fabled Alamo, entered freely off San Antonio’s central plaza, is not so much a tourist attraction as a place of pilgrimage…
2.6 MILES
The River Walk is a 15-mile-long glorious network of waterside pathways that’s tucked below street level and lined with bars and restaurants. It's the…
2.09 MILES
This Spanish Colonial revival-style mansion, 5 miles north of downtown and originally owned by artist Marion Koogler McNay, is spectacular. McNay's 700…
6.84 MILES
Known in its time as the Queen of the Missions, San José is certainly the largest and arguably the most beautiful of all the sites on the Mission Trail…
2.73 MILES
Founded in 1731, San Antonio’s cathedral ranks as the oldest church in Texas. On the edge of Main Plaza, its prime interest for modern visitors is as a…
12.33 MILES
You don't have to be a kid to enjoy Fiesta Texas – this popular theme park has plenty of rides that you must be 'this tall' to enjoy. Of course, there are…
0.32 MILES
North of downtown near Trinity University, this 343-acre park is a great place to spend a family day. As well as the San Antonio Zoo, you'll find the…
17.85 MILES
About halfway between San Antonio and New Braunfels, this national landmark cave is one of the state’s largest underground formations. Its name comes from…
Nearby San Antonio attractions
0.24 MILES
San Antonio’s zoo, in Breckenridge Park north of downtown, is home to 9000 animals from 750 different species. As well as one of the country's largest…
0.32 MILES
North of downtown near Trinity University, this 343-acre park is a great place to spend a family day. As well as the San Antonio Zoo, you'll find the…
0.59 MILES
Set on the eastern edge of Brackenridge Park, the Witte is an engaging museum of natural history, science and Texas history. Pronounced ‘witty’, it’s…
0.66 MILES
This place is perfect for the 10-and-under set. Got toddlers? Head to Little Town and its miniature-sized businesses. Older kids will get a kick out of…
5. San Antonio Botanical Gardens
1.17 MILES
This expertly tended, 38-acre garden complex showcases native Texas flora. There's also a rose garden and a wonderful conservatory, with a bit of…
1.45 MILES
'Fort Sam' – as it's known 'round here – is ready to enlist you for a little military history. Its claims to fame? The Apache chief Geronimo was held here…
1.45 MILES
Part of the Joint Base San Antonio military complex, Fort Sam Houston is home to more than 900 historic buildings. It has long been known as an Army…
1.65 MILES
Housed in the original 1880s Lone Star Brewery (a piece of art in itself), the San Antonio Museum of Art is home to an impressive trove of Latin American…