The Japanese Garden
Cornwall
History & Heritage 
Family Friendly 
Nature & Wildlife A tranquil one-acre Japanese garden and bonsai nursery in St Mawgan, with koi ponds, stone lanterns, and seasonal colour from acers and azaleas.
Overview
About
First planted in the 1920s by Thomas William Simpson, this peaceful garden combines Japanese design with the Dorset landscape. Authentic stone lanterns and bronze features were brought over from Japan, set among winding paths, still ponds, and dense azalea borders that come alive in May. A simple teahouse, partly covered in wisteria, sits beside koi pools and curved terraces. The planting includes Kurume azaleas, flowering cherries, acers, and ginkgo trees, chosen for the way they shift with the seasonsHighlights
- Quiet pathways around the koi ponds and arched bridges.
- The raked-gravel Zen Garden with stone lanterns and viewing points.
- Spring azaleas and autumn maple foliage for peak colour.
- The Moss Garden and Bamboo Grove for texture and shade.
- The bonsai nursery and shop for a look at trained trees and specialist tools.
How to get here
You can reach The Japanese Garden easily from Newquay: take the line 56 bus towards Padstow and get off at The Falcon Inn in St Mawgan, then walk about 4 minutes to the entrance. If you’re driving, follow signs for Newquay Airport and St Mawgan; the garden entrance is signposted on Helman Lane.
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