Japanese Cultural Center & Tea House

A 3-acre garden that slopes gently to the shore of Lake Linton. Weeping cherry trees, authentic stone lanterns, hand-crafted bamboo gates, and an arching vermillion bridge over a winding stream. Experience the serenity and simple beauty of Saginaw’s own Japanese Cultural Center and Tea House, where a whole new world of experiences awaits. Built in 1985 as a collaborative effort between the City of Saginaw and its sister city, Tokushima, Japan, the Japanese Cultural Center rests partly on American soil and partly on Japanese soil. Treasured as one of the most authentic teahouses in all of North America, Saginaw’s
Japanese Cultural Center is a focal point for arts and culture in the Great Lakes Bay Region.

Stroll through the garden paths free of charge or explore the Tea House with a “Tea & Tour” for only $3. A trained docent will
guide your Tea House experience, explaining the history of the Tea Ceremony, as well as the construction of the sukiya (rustic) structure with Japanese hand tools. A presentation of traditionally prepared green tea and sweets completes this authentic experience. Tea ceremonies are presented on the second Saturday of each month at 2 pm throughout the year.

Please call 989.759.1648 for reservations or to schedule a special, private ceremony for your group. Visit Saginaw’s own Japanese Cultural Center and Tea House and help us fulfill our mission, “to promote intercultural understanding and peace through a bowl of tea.”  Learn more...

Tea for Two