Hakone Gardens in Spring | Santa Cruz area Japanese Garden

by Lisa LeCoump
April 22, 2019April 6, 2026

Close-up of cherry blossom branches with pink flowers and gray sky background.

We visited the Hakone Gardens at the perfect time to see the cherry blossoms. A beautiful example of a Japanese garden.

Close-up of delicate pink cherry blossoms on a tree branch, showcasing natural beauty and fine detail.

Located in Saratoga, California, Hakone Gardens is 18 acres of gardens that are beautiful in every season. It is one of the oldest Japanese estates, retreats and gardens in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Updated:

April 6, 2026

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Traditional Japanese wooden lantern with cherry blossoms in blooming season.

Beautiful pink and white cherry blossoms on tree branch, close-up macro shot for nature photography.

Stunning cherry blossoms captured in full bloom by Tony Fitzgerald Photography, emphasizing natural beauty and floral elegance.

True to The Master Pantry philosophy, this recipe combines the best seasonal ingredients and quality brands with homemade methods to maximize both flavor and sustainability. It was inspired by our travels and works well as a holiday recipe.

Photos by Tony Fitzgerald Photography

Posts created by Lisa LeCoump — Food Photographer, Agricultural Expert, and Home Baker. Sharing master recipes, chef secrets, and sustainable baking for every kitchen.

Professional Photographer - Food Photographer, Wedding Photographer. Lisa was previously the Deputy Agricultural Commissioner, responsible for reviewing and enforcing organic regulations and Environmental Protection Agency pesticide use regulations. She also worked for years as an Agricultural Advisor in California, a farmer in California, and an Agricultural Extension Agent in Thailand. She received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from California State University, Chico and studied Integrated Pest Management at U.C., Davis, which involved farming methods that preserve the environment.