The Japanese Friendship Garden is located on a rocky island in the Snake River in the heart of Idaho Falls. The island is historically important as the site of the first bridge to span the Snake River in Eastern Idaho. The garden was developed to celebrate thirty years of associating with our Japanese sister city, Tokai-Mura, and to encourage friendship with peoples throughout the world.

The Japanese Friendship Garden contains a traditional Japanese garden gate, many water features, a viewing platform, a deck, a "Dragon’s Path" across a pond and the large Japanese lantern given to the city by Tokai-Mura. The many features have been built by volunteers who have donated many, many, many hours of their time to these projects and maintaining the garden.

When visiting the garden, visitors are encouraged to enjoy these many features while being respectful of the space.  Please stick to the designated paths.  Follow park rules, pick up after yourself, and no confetti, fake flowers, and/or balloons are allowed.  

NEW for 2022, Idaho Falls Department of Parks and Recreation will no longer be accepting reservations for the Japanese Friendship Garden.  Please enjoy the garden at your own leisure and be courteous and respectful when visiting. 

Contact Judy Seydel for donation or volunteer information.

For more information on the Japanese Pavilion: http://japanesepavilion.org/