Shofuso is a 1.2-acre Japanese garden recognized as the third-best Japanese garden in North America by Sukiya Living and named the “Best Hidden Tourist Attraction” by Philadelphia Magazine. Designed by architect Junzo Yoshimura, Shofuso was built in Japan in 1953 using traditional techniques and materials. It was shipped to New York and exhibited in the courtyard of the Museum of Modern Art in New York before moving to West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, in 1958. In 2007, international artist Hiroshi Senju, inspired by the garden’s waterfall, donated 20 contemporary murals to Shofuso, which are permanently displayed inside the house. This historic site and museum include a hill and pond garden with a tiered waterfall, island, and koi fish, a tea garden featuring a traditional tea house, and a courtyard garden leading to a bathhouse. Cultural and educational programming for the public and members are held on-site year-round, offering visitors of all ages an opportunity to learn and appreciate Japanese arts and culture.
*Spring 2024 Hours*
Shofuso is now open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM. Admission can be reserved up to four weeks in advance online at japanphilly.org/shofuso/visit. View our event calendar at japanphilly.org/programs.