Cultural Center in Mount Soledad

"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."

"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."

"Feel the beauty of the waterfalls and greenery as you stroll the pathways of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Skip right past the entrance fee the third Tuesday of every month. As well, explore the Japanese rock garden and take in the current indoor display."

"The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages showcases the traditions of 34 national groups, some of which have their own cottages (build originally for the 1935 Exposition). The goal is to promote multicultural understanding through exhibits and programming. (Location: Balboa Park)"

"Rollin Roots offers four mouthwatering entrees that are available as a sandwich, loaded fries or as a rice bowl to give their customers exactly what they want. From spicy to tangy flavors, founder Avonte Hartsfield makes sure the public can find something they can enjoy at his eatery. “I hope people can see how great tasting vegan food could be and how accessible it could be,” he said."

"Chef Wong, which is located in Carmel Mountain, has only been around for a couple of years but it’s already building a fan base in North County. Try the fried cream cheese wontons for an appetizer and the chow fun noodles or the Xiao Long Bao, a steamed bun with pork."