The Seattle Japanese Garden has announced a temporary closure beginning this summer to undergo a significant $2.8 million restoration project. The primary focus of the work is the replacement of a failing retaining wall on the garden’s north side, utilizing traditional Japanese masonry techniques.
Key Details of the Project:
- Closure Dates: The garden will be completely closed to the public from June 22 through July 27, 2026.
- Phased Reopening: Starting July 28, the majority of the garden will reopen on its regular Tuesday–Sunday schedule. However, the north section will remain off-limits through November 2026 as construction continues.
- Authentic Craftsmanship: The project will replace a deteriorating basalt wall with a new granite structure built in the “Ishigaki” style—a dry-stone stacking technique known for its durability and earthquake resilience. The work is being led by Suminori Awata, a 15th-generation master stonemason from Japan.
- Modern Upgrades: Beyond the wall, the renovation includes new stairways and accessibility improvements to ensure that visitors using wheelchairs and strollers can navigate the shoreline paths for the first time.
- A Rare Opportunity: Once the garden partially reopens in late July, visitors will have the unique chance to observe the master stonemasons at work, offering a live look at centuries-old artisanal techniques.
While the summer closure may impact peak visiting season, officials emphasize that this “once-in-a-generation” project is essential for preserving the garden’s structural integrity and historic character for future decades. Following the completion of the project in late autumn, the garden will undergo its standard winter maintenance closure from December through February.
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