North American Japanese

Garden Association

 

Empowering Leaders, Professionals, and Enthusiasts to Sustain, Innovate,

and Celebrate Japanese Gardens in North America

Portland Waterfall picture by Micah Dickinson

Supporting Japanese Gardens

For centuries, Japanese gardens have offered spaces of reflection, artistry, and harmony with nature. Their quiet beauty invites us to pause, to observe the shifting patterns of light on water, the interplay of stone and moss, the patient craftsmanship in every pruned branch.

Today, these landscapes face new challenges and opportunities. NAJGA is committed to ensuring their continued vitality by supporting the people who create, maintain, and cherish them.

We offer:

  • Immersive experiences for enthusiasts – Artistic, historic, and philosophical insights, behind-the-scenes access, and enriching virtual and in-person events.
  • Resources for private garden owners – design principles, sourcing materials, and connections to skilled professionals.
  • Professional development for garden designers, horticulturists, and craftspeople – mentorship, hands-on training, and emerging techniques in Japanese garden design.
  • Operational training for garden staff – marketing, HR, fundraising, and collaboration strategies to strengthen garden management.
  • Strategic guidance for public garden leaders – funding insights, and visitor engagement and management strategies.
  • Volunteer engagement and recognition – training, shared successes, and opportunities to deepen involvement.

Whether you care for a public garden, refine your craft, tend your own tranquil space, or simply find peace in these landscapes, NAJGA connects you to the knowledge and people that help Japanese gardens thrive.

Upcoming Events & Programs

Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego CA, 2215 Pan American Road. E.
San Diego, CA 92101 United States
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26 - 28 May 2026 All day
Chicago Gardens, Chicago, IL United States
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19 - 26 Jun 2026 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
09 - 20 Nov 2026 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Recent Events

10 Dec 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Virtual Event,
04 Dec 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Virtual Event,
02 Dec 2025 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Virtual Event,

Recent Posts

Become a Member

Japanese gardens are more than landscapes, they are living traditions, shaped by the hands of gardeners, designers, volunteers, and devoted enthusiasts. As a NAJGA member, you help ensure that these landscapes continue to flourish for generations to come.

Membership offers:

  • Exclusive workshops, tours, and interactive experiences for enthusiasts.
  • Strategic insights on funding, leadership, and visitor engagement for public gardens.
  • Best practices in team management, marketing, and collaboration for operational leaders.
  • Mentorship, training, and career development for garden professionals.
  • Expert resources for private garden owners on design, materials, and maintenance.

Join a network of passionate individuals committed to sustaining, refining, and sharing the beauty of Japanese gardens.

Photo of Portland Karesansui garden

Member Spotlight

Portland Japanese Garden, Portland Oregon

Photo of pond and garden at Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix

Member Spotlight

Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Phoenix Arizona

Morikami house and garden with bench

Member Spotlight

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach Florida