Very peaceful, pleasant and relaxing walk around, The staff was very nice and kind, origami was fun overall 5/5.

Subtle gem hidden in the middle of the city. Finally had a chance to spend some time here after driving through to Calgary many times. So glad to have taken the time! Arrived on a recent drizzly Sunday afternoon, determined to at least walk around, not expecting much. However, we were lucky to latch on to one of the tours of the day. A young Japanese man dressed in beautiful Japanese attire gave a heartfelt & interesting tour of the grounds. He shared the garden history & layout as it ties into the spiritual philosophy of the garden. It deepened my appreciation for the details of each water feature, hill, rock & structure... well worth the tour if you happen to stop by. read more

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden - Our wonderful tour leader - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Lethbridge, Alberta

See all

We visited on their 50th anniversary celebration, and took in the 1PM guided tour, which lasted about 45 minutes. I learned a lot about the design of the garden, how each element is intended to foster inner calm by directing one's attention selectively and purposefully. You must remove your footwear to enter the tea pavilion, and I highly recommend you take off your socks as well and let the wood floor caress your bare feet. It's hard to describe in words, but the experience of the smooth, polished surface on my soles was a sensual revelation! Even the exterior deck, with a rougher texture, was a tactile treat to complement the rock garden or the serenity pond. read more

Peaceful gardens that are well kept. I like the ponds and bridges. The large bell near the lake has a pleasant sound and it was interesting to feel it reverberate for well over a minute. I think the $9 entrance fee is too much for short walk and an underwhelming view. read more

Definitely in my list of top 5 for Lethbridge. Allow 30-120 minutes to visit this gem nestled in the greater Lake Henderson Park complex. This garden is as authentic as it gets. It is an excellent place to relax, take pictures for special events, have a romantic moment, and enjoy a Japanese cultural experience. Summer weekends usually offer special programming and special displays in the teahouse, so check their website when planning your visit. Very affordably priced, we keep coming back to enjoy its serenity and cultural activities. It is somewhat smaller as compared to the gardens I enjoyed while living in Japan and California, however, it is much cleaner, and the hardscape is most excellent and pleasing. A discerning eye will appreciate all the careful planning to provide multiple beautiful vistas, even to the area beyond the garden and excellent maintenance. This past weekend offered Taiko drumming, shave ice, kite making and superb storytelling for little ones, calligraphy, Ikebana (flower arranging), a discussion and demonstration with the master gardener, tea ceremony and sword demonstration. I highly recommend following with one of the best restaurants in town about a block away, Dono Sushi (offering much more than Sushi, even for vegetarians) at 1009 Mayor Magrath Drive (403) 380-3308. read more