This site is intended to assist those wishing to learn about the Bamboo Garden at Foothill College and the bamboo species that are grown in it.

The Garden
The Bamboo Garden is located on the campus of Foothill Community College in northern California, USA. It was begun in 1989 by Gordon Holler, Professor of Art, Emeritus, to create a setting for the Japanese Cultural Center on the campus. With the help of many volunteers from the Foothill Community, the garden was continually expanded and now contains over 70 varieties of bamboo planted on a two acre landscaped site.

Located in the east section of the garden is the Azumaya or meditation pavilion (pictured above). Envisioned by Dr. Michiko Hiramatsu, Professor of Language Arts, Emeritus, to further the understanding of Japanese culture, the building was crafted by students at the International College of Crafts and Arts in Toyama, Japan, and gifted to the college in 1998. Below the Azumaya, a dry garden water course was created to complete this project.

Hours and Admission
The garden is a public space that is open to anyone who would like to visit it from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free, but two dollars in quarters is required for campus parking.

Location
Foothill College is located approximately 35 miles south of San Francisco in Los Altos Hills. The campus is located just off the El Monte Road west exit from Highway 280. Upon entering the campus from El Monte Rd., follow the one way circle drive around the campus about 270 degrees to parking lot 5 or 6. The Japanese Cultural Center and Bamboo Garden are an easy walk just east of the parking.

Support
Tax deductible contributions for the Foothill Bamboo Garden Fund can be made through the Foothill-De Anza Community Colleges Foundation, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, Ca, 94022.

Bamboo Information
For questions about bamboo, we recommend contacting the American Bamboo Society (ABS). There maybe a local chapter near you. Information about growing bamboo, types of bamboo and their suitability to your local climate, bamboo suppliers, etc. can be found in the ABS online 'Bamboo Species Source List' or the ABS 'Frequently Asked Question' page.