Jingu House Café at the Japanese Tea Garden | San Antonio

An idea that started with a lily pond in 1915 eventually became the Japanese Tea Garden.  Between July, 1917 and May, 1918, the former quarry was shaped into a complex that included walkways, stone arch bridges, an island and a Japanese pagoda. The garden was termed the lily pond, and local residents donated bulbs to beautify the area. Exotic plants were provided by the City nursery, and the City Public Service Company donated the lighting system. The pagoda was roofed with palm leaves from trees in City parks.

In 1919, The American City magazine reported that “the city of San Antonio has recently completed a municipal lily pond and a Japanese garden which we believe are unique.” In 1926, at the City’s invitation, Kimi Enzo Jingu, a local Japanese-American artist, moved to the garden and opened the Bamboo Room, where light lunches and tea were served.

The site is designated as a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark, a Registered Texas Historic Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Experience a relaxing lunch on the outdoor patio or intimate treetop dining room featuring Private Label teas, specialty bento box, sushi, sandwiches, salads and signature teahouse desserts.    Complete your visit with a stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden's unique koi ponds, waterfall, stone bridges and walkways.  

Winter hours:  Tuesday thru Sunday 10am-4pm
Summer hours;  Daily -  10am-5pm