Washington Park:
Washington Park has a unique, stunning beauty in Portland, Oregon; there is much to discover in the park, including Museums, public arts, theatres, zoos, and gardens. My main focus in this blog is the Japanese and Chinese gardens. However, part 1 only talks about the Chinese garden, and part 2 will cover the Japanese botanical Garden. What they say is true: you can find happiness beyond those gardens’ walls.
Chinese Garden: AKA (Lan Su Chinese Garden)
The History of the Chinese Garden:
The Chinese Garden in Portland is incredibly tranquil. As soon as I entered, it spoke to me. The situated buildings talked to me; the fish and the water said to me. The trees within it spoke to me and awakened my soul. It is mesmerising how the artisans of Suzhou can condense such thriving beauty in a small space. It was made to be a resemblance to the Humble Administrator’s Gardens in Suzhou. Because of that and the existence of the Chinese town, Portland is proud to announce itself as a sister city to Suzhou city in China. Since its founding, it has become the most attractive and wanderlust favourite place.
The Admission And Entry Price:
The admission is $12.95 for adults $11.95 for seniors (62+), Students (6-18 and with college with ID) $9.95, family pass (two adults, two students) $37.95, and finally children five and under for free.
The Tower of Cosmic Reflection (Tea house):
In the picture above, the tower of cosmic reflection (Tea-house), a remembrance of Distance Fragrance Hall in Humble Administrator’s Garden, offers visitors an opportunity to blend in with each other while sipping some Chinese tea and eating snakes. It is also a great way to enjoy the calming atmosphere and learn more about Chinese culture. If you ever liked any traditional Chinese tea they generously offer, there is a small tea store where you can buy it.
Flowers Bathing in Spring Rain and Fish Pavilion:
Within sight of the Lan Su Garden, flowers and trees are everywhere. Wait until you see the Flowers Bathing in Spring Rain and Fish Pavilion, combined with the stonework and waterfall, which creates such harmonious exotic scenery. All the water is in the middle of the garden, making what is known to be Lake Zither.
Lake Zither:
Lake Zither has many colourful fishes that caught my eye. I found peace and joy as I watched them calmly swimming around the lake. It is a home for many Koi and goldfish; you can clearly see them once you cross the rainbow bridge. If you look good, you could see some of them hiding under the water lilies, looking for shade.
The Fall of Brocade Clouds – AKA Scholar’s Study:
Not forgetting the Fall Brocade Clouds (Scholar’s Study); it is the most substantial building of the Lan Su Garden, providing entertainment and educational activities throughout the year. Fall of Brocade Clouds epitomises adroit Chinese arts, such as painting, Chinese Calligraphy, poetry, and music. One exciting activity it beholds is the Portland Rose Society, which displays roses of many kinds and educates the visitors about how to grow and take care of them.
On a final note, the Chinese botanical garden is not like any other gardens we usually see. It is inconceivable, more like heaven on earth. The structures of buildings, decorative stonework, planets, waterfall, and poetry are all aligned elegantly, creating a pleasant utopia. It is worth seeing, and I vote for you to see it.
What one thing about the Chinese Garden do you like? Would you consider visiting it when going to Portland, Oregon?
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