Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center
Philadelphia, PA · 1 hour 18 minutes from Reading · Under $20 a person
Open for the 2026 season, Wednesday to Sunday; the site does not post the season's closing date
Plan the day
Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center is a Japanese house and garden in West Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, PA. The house was built in Japan in 1953 with traditional techniques and materials, designed by architect Junzo Yoshimura.
You take off your shoes and walk through the house itself, with its 20 murals by Hiroshi Senju, then the garden with its waterfall, koi pond, tea house and bathhouse. The site says a visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour, which leaves time for the rest of Fairmount Park. Timed tickets go on sale up to three weeks ahead and capacity is limited.
Before you go
Buy timed tickets online up to three weeks ahead; capacity is limited and tickets are final, rain or shine. Shoes come off inside the house, so wear socks. Free parking nearby; do not leave valuables in the car. The house is not wheelchair or scooter accessible, and pets are not allowed.
Coming up
Yokai Family Weekend, with a scavenger hunt, kamishibai storytelling, origami and the Yokai flea market, is October 24 and 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., free with admission.
Checked October 8, 2026 on the official site. Hours, prices and seasons change, so confirm there before a long drive.
