James Irvine Japanese Garden

One of the hidden charms of downtown Los Angeles is the James Irvine Japanese Garden, which can be found on the grounds of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC). In the Japanese language, this beautifully landscaped venue is known as "Seiryu-en," which means the "Garden of the Clear Stream." The name is a reference to the 170-foot creek that flows down from a manmade waterfall positioned in the upper level of the garden.

Designed to be a showcase of seasonal variety and traditional Japanese aesthetics, the garden features blooming trees, manicured shrubs, carefully placed stones, and a terracing of flowering plants. The cascading water evokes a sense of serenity and the tranquility of nature. Adjacent to the garden is an indoor gathering place, the Garden Room, which can be used for special functions, from birthday parties to weddings, ceremonies, and receptions.

Indeed, the James Irvine Japanese Garden is high on the list of local wedding planners among the area's outdoor venues. It can accommodate as many as 100 guests for a sit-down dinner and 80 for buffet service.

The James Irvine Japanese Garden is located on the premises of the JACCC at 244 South San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, California 90013. Admission is free from 10am to 5pm on Tuesday through Friday; closed on Mondays and reserved for events on weekends. No smoking, pets, or outside food/drinks are allowed.