How to Propose at the Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is one of the most popular locations for photo shoots in San Antonio. As such, one would think this spot is the logical choice for an extraordinary proposal. But though the spectacular garden has abundant greenery and serene water features, this oasis also comes with tricky lighting, crowds, and only a few ideal spots for dropping to one knee. In today’s blog post, I’ll tell you exactly how to propose at the Japanese Tea Garden so that you avoid these pitfalls. Grab your ring and get ready: it’s time to get down on one knee.

How to Propose at the Japanese Tea Garden: The Best Proposal Locations

The Japanese Tea Garden is rich in natural beauty. You can certainly choose to ask your beloved to marry you wherever you wish within the garden. In terms of the most photogenic locations, however, there are really only three spots that stand out.

The Waterfall

The waterfall is the centerpiece of the Japanese Tea Garden and a natural focal point for any proposal. However, with its beauty comes one major drawback—crowds. Since this is the most visited part of the garden, finding a quiet moment can be a challenge unless you arrive right when the garden opens at 7:00 a.m.

In terms of lighting, the waterfall also suffers from receiving the harshest light in the garden. The best light at the waterfall can be found from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. in the morning. Much beyond this time frame, and you will find a definitive line of shadow crossing the waterfall as the sun reaches across the garden.

Finally, you should know that the pathways around the waterfall are very narrow. Getting down on one knee is possible, and there is a little divot out in front of the waterfall where you can propose. I think the best spot for a photographer (indeed, the only spot for a photographer) is across the pond from the waterfall with a long lens capturing the action. This is the only way to capture a proposal in profile. Your space is going to be very limited if your photographer is positioned on the stairs leading to the waterfall and you are at the base of the waterfall proposing.

Pros:

Awe-inspiring backdrop
Instant recognition in photos
Romantic, cascading water sounds enhance the ambiance

Cons:

High traffic area; expect an audience unless you propose early
Very public; no privacy whatsoever
Narrow pathways that make maneuvering tricky for both you and your photographer
Harsh lighting after early morning hours (i.e., any time after 7:30 a.m.)

Stone steps surrounded by greenery and trees in the Japanese Tea Garden — The actual platform can be found directly below these steps

Rock Steps Leading to Brackenridge Park Entrance

If you are looking for a larger, more spacious setting for your proposal, then the rock steps leading to Brackenridge Park might be the ticket. These steps provide a flat platform in case you have props, a large entourage, or even a musical group accompanying your proposal. The steps themselves aren’t that photogenic, but they will grant you the space to fulfill your artistic vision.

Pros:

Fairly consistent lighting
Beautiful stone textures
Enough space for props and people

Cons:

Uneven stone steps may be tricky to navigate in formal footwear
Less instantly recognizable compared to the waterfall or pagoda

The Stone Building

For my money, the small stone building found to the right of Jingu restaurant is the best place to propose at the Japanese Tea Garden. This location is private and has the best lighting in the morning. Most visitors never even find this building until after they have visited the main grounds of the garden, allowing you to have the building all to yourself. And with the picturesque framing of the building, it’s like you literally have a frame set up for a beautiful landscape photo of Brackenridge Park.

There are two tricky factors for taking photos at the stone building. The first is that the lighting here is high contrast. The interior of the building is quite dark, while the exterior is very bright. As such, make sure you meter for the interior of the building to ensure your proposal is lit correctly.

Second, the pathway is twisted, and there isn’t really a clear shot from main patio. Your best bet, and this is how I set up Jonny’s proposal to Alyssa, is to have Jonny meet Alyssa at the entrance to the stone building. The couple then walked together along the pathway to the building. I followed them discreetly at a fair distance. At the main bend in the pathway, you can get a clear shot into the building, and this is where Jonny dropped to one knee. I approached and began taking closer photos of the proposal.

Pros:

Private and intimate setting
Excellent morning light
Naturally framed backdrop for beautiful photos

Cons:

High contrast lighting due to dark interior and bright exterior
No clear shot from the main patio

How to Propose at the Japanese Tea Garden: Do You Need a Photo Permit?

Good news! No photo permits are necessary for engagement or proposal photos at the Japanese Tea Garden. Donations are, however, greatly appreciated and can be received through the garden website.

I will also note that the City of San Antonio parks website for the Japanese Tea Garden (separate from the Japanese Tea Garden’s own website) states that ‘all professional photography sessions at the Japanese Tea Garden must be scheduled in advance through the San Antonio Parks Foundation.’ I have never had anyone in the garden ask for a permit or for any type of paperwork, but this notice is present.

How to Propose at the Japanese Tea Garden: Rules?

The Japanese Tea Garden is a public park, so in short, share the space with your fellow San Antonians. There are some basic rules to follow:

No outside alcohol is allowed (you may purchase alcohol from Jingu restaurant)
No rose petals
No streamers
No glitter

We’re engaged! How do we get married at the Japanese Tea Garden?

If you are planning a wedding ceremony or a private event, you can reserve the garden in advance by contacting the Japanese Tea Garden directly at JTG@saparks.org or by calling 210.559.3148. Wedding reservation prices are $400 per hour for the Main Pavillion and $300 per hour for the Waterfall. The parks department requires a security officer to be present for an additional $50 on the day of the event. Also, the rental price does not include chairs.

Best Photography Locations in the Japanese Tea Garden

While your proposal spot is important, you will also want to take advantage of the garden’s many other striking nooks for additional engagement photos. Here are some of my favorite photography locations:

Stone Building and Long Pathway – In addition to being a great place to propose, this spot offers great light, privacy, and picturesque views of Brackenridge Park.
Wide View from the Main Pavilion – I always recommend mixing up the perspective in your shots. Taking a photo from here gives you a sweeping view of the garden below.
Koi Pond Reflections – On a still day, the water reflects the lush landscape (and hopefully a kissing couple) beautifully.
Tree by the Koi Pond – This lone tree provides the best shade in the garden for portraits.
Waterfall – A classic shot, though best done early to avoid crowds.
Jungle Plant Loop by the Koi Pond – Lush and tropical, this location is perfect for intimate portraits.
Stone Steps Leading to Brackenridge Park – There is great lighting at the top of the steps.
Wood Railing and Bridge Leading to the Main Pavilion – The railing is a charming location for romantic shots.
Tree-Lined Pathway to Brackenridge Park – You’ve photographed the stone pathways of the garden, now head off to the forest of Brackenridge Park

How to Propose at the Japanese Tea Garden: Photo Tips

To make sure your proposal photos turn out perfectly, follow these key tips:

Get There Early – Crowds begin arriving at 8:30 a.m., and navigating the narrow paths with an audience isn’t ideal for an intimate moment.
Plan for a Weekday Proposal – Saturdays and Sundays are packed, making it hard to find privacy. A weekday morning is your best bet for a peaceful proposal. Saturdays and Sundays are overrun with visitors. And once you experience the garden at peak capacity, you will never want to return.
Utilize the Best Light – Morning light is the softest and most flattering. The harsh midday sun creates stark shadows, especially around the waterfall. Unfortunately, the garden doesn’t have any shade to speak of, except for one lone tree near the koi pond.
Take the Waterfall Shot First – After your proposal is done, head straight to the waterfall. Since this is the busiest spot, get this photo done early before moving on to more secluded areas.
Check the Events Calendar – The Japanese Tea Garden occasionally hosts events that could impact your visit. Make sure to check the website beforehand to avoid any scheduling conflicts.

What a typical weekend at the Japanese Tea Garden looks like

Meet Alyssa & Jonny

Parents everywhere are going to be thrilled to know that Alyssa and Jonny met the really old fashioned way…at church! These two met as friends about a year ago at church in Shreveport, Louisiana. They became more than friends about five months ago. As the saying goes, when you know, you know, and Jonny knew that Alyssa was the one for him pretty quick.

The planning for the proposal came together just as rapidly. Alyssa was coming down to San Antonio for a spontaneous girls’ weekend with her besties. Jonny got his act in gear and called me the Wednesday prior and we put a plan in place. The scheme even included having Jonny drive Alyssa’s parents from Dallas to San Antonio. Needless to say, Alyssa was absolutely surprised, though she claims she had an inkling of what was planned. I wish these two the best and I know they are going to have so much fun together.

Final Thoughts

The Japanese Tea Garden is one of the most romantic places in San Antonio to propose. No matter what spot you choose, your proposal is sure to be magical. With the right timing, location, and a bit of preparation, you will create a moment that your partner will cherish forever. Happy proposing!

Enjoy the images and I will have more photo adventures for you next week!

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Are you interested in getting down on one knee in San Antonio? Drop me a line and let’s chat about how I can help you with your photography needs. I have hourly rates, and all photo shoots include editing and high-resolution files.

To view more images from my wedding photography portfolio, please visit my website – KellyWilliamsPhotographer.com