Lan Su Garden, Portland

As part of my family vacation to Portland, Oregon, I was fortunate enough to visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden ("Garden of Awakening Orchids"). 

This garden is the result of Portland being connected with the city of Suzhou, its Chinese sister city and built between 1999-2000. The garden was built along the style of the many Ming Dynasty gardens that populate Suzhou. Chinese craftsman who came from China to the United States were employed in the construction of the garden (very similar to the process employed by the Chinese Scholars Garden on Staten Island).

Website: http://www.lansugarden.org/

In addition to a wide variety of plantings, the garden also features a large two-story tea house. Having the opportunity to have tea and a light snack was a highlight of the visit. The views from the second floor were also spectacular.

Lan Su Garden Map

Portland Japanese Garden

As part of my family vacation this summer, I visited the city of Portland, Oregon. While there I visited the Portland Japanese Garden. This garden first opened in 1963 and was designed by Takuma Tono. 

Currently, the garden consist of five separate gardens (Flat Garden, Strolling Pond Garden, Tea Garden, Natural Garden, and a Sand & Stone Garden). Unfortunately, I made the mistake of visiting on a Sunday morning. As a result, it was very crowded. I would recommend a visit on a weekday instead, or pay the fee to become a member and gain access to the garden several hours prior to its daily opening to the public.

Website: https://japanesegarden.org/