Discover the tranquility of a Japanese-style garden that blends design elements of classic tea, strolling and zen gardens. Cross an arched bridge and stroll on shaded paths along a koi-filled stream to the Tea House, designed by Whitney Smith. The plant collection features Japanese maples, azaleas, bamboo, and other plants from Asia.

The Full Moon Tea House area is one of the most impressive architectural structures at Descanso Gardens. Inspired by the Asian origins of Descanso's camellias, the Japanese Garden, Full Moon Tea House and Minka bring the spirit of the Far East to California. Constructed in 1966 from funds raised by the Descanso Gardens Guild, the Japanese Garden and Tea House is the the focal point of the Japanese Garden Festival every autumn. This weekend festival features bonsai and suiseki displays, taiko drumming and traditional Japanese dancers.

The Full Moon Tea House features blue tile roofing imported from Japan. Across a Shinto bridge stand a structure resembling a Japanese farmhouse. This structure, called the Minka, was designed and donated by Robert H. Kawashima in 1969. Another nearby feature is a dry-raked garden, modeled after a Shen garden in Kyoto.

New tea services are being offered at the Full Moon tea House by Patina's Café Descanso. Authentic teas, assorted beverages, sweet and savory snacks, sushi and a la carte salads are available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.

After years of much-appreciated volunteer service at the tea house, the job of providing tea service has been assumed by Patina's Café Descanso staff. They offer authentic teas, assorted beverages, sweet and savory snacks, sushi and al la carte salads from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.

A more extensive tea service is available at 1 and 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. This sit-down service, for which reservations are recommended, costs $16.50 per person and may be arranged by calling Patina at (818) 790-3663. Guests are welcomed without reservations when space is available. Both types of service should offer a renewed appreciation of peaceful times spent at Descanso’s Japanese Garden and Tea House.