Who we are
The Friends of the Japanese Garden of Peace, located in Hammersmith Park, is a dedicated committee passionate about the history, upkeep, and future development of this culturally significant Garden. Their efforts ensure that the Garden not only preserves its unique heritage but also thrives as a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
Born out of the efforts led by Setsuo Kato (MBE) for the 2010 Centenary of the Garden of Peace and the Japan-British Exhibition, the Friends were founded shortly before the centenary with John Gordon-Smith taking the role of Chair.
Since then, the Friends have championed several initiatives and acted as a forum where local residents, Japanese associations and the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham could meet, exchange ideas and discuss issues related to the Garden of Peace.
We organise regular gardening days, usually once a month in the warmer period of the year, and collaborate with other associations to bring to life events like the Japanese Garden Community Day.
In 2023, Dario Vianello took over from John Gordon-Smith as Chair of the Friends.