Hakone Estate and Gardens

Steep historic hillside; parts not fully ADA accessible; ADA parking and restrooms on site

About this adventure

Hakone Estate and Gardens in the hills above Saratoga is one of the oldest residential-style Japanese gardens open to the public in the Western Hemisphere, begun as a private summer retreat in 1915. Families can wander 18 acres of hillside paths, ponds and traditional buildings, strolling the hill and koi pond garden among historic buildings crafted in Japan more than 100 years ago; rotating art exhibits fill the Cultural Exchange Center. A garden-view picnic area with five tables is open first come, first served (no food elsewhere in the formal garden). Because the historic estate sits on a steep hillside built with stone and gravel, some areas are not fully ADA accessible and strollers may need carrying in places; ADA parking and restrooms are on site and the garden map shows accessible routes. Museums for All visitors with an EBT card and photo ID get free admission for up to four people. Note that free admission for all Santa Clara County residents ended in January 2026 (Saratoga residents still get the first Tuesday of the month free).