Courtyard of Tranquility
"It's 16th century China, and you're standing in the entry courtyard of the private home and garden of a wealthy family. The garden around you is their spiritual utopia, a peaceful and soothing place designed to help them escape the problems of everyday life and discover their true selves by connecting with nature."
-Lan Su Chinese Garden Brochure
"Doorways and windows throughout the Garden form views within views, creating the illusion of infinite space within a single city block."
"Lake Tai rocks are formed underwater, with the flow of water creating their unique shapes."
Hall of Brocade Clouds
"Traditionally, this is where the family met and entertained guests. The open view ensures that guests... can see the family's wealth and status in every direction."
This is actually a fire alarm!
There were some great artworks for sale in here (expensive though)
Terrace
"The ideal life was to be a hermit in the mountains, surrounded by nature. Since city life provided more comforts and pleasure, nature was brought to them-- on a smaller scale."
Tai Chi on the terrace!
Painted Boat in Misty Rain
"This pavilion represents the boat of friendship that departed from Suzhou, made its way across the ocean and eventually docked in Portland. From inside, you're meant to feel as if you're anchored on shore and being rocked gently by small waves."
Koi Fish
"On the painted boat I listen to the night rain; mist and willow fade into my sweet dreams."
Rock Mountain & Waterfall
"The rockery is designed to appear as rugged mountains in the distance, complete with waterfalls and cascading streams."
"Ten thousand ravines engulfed in deep clouds."
Moon Locking Pavilion
"On a clear night, you can see the reflection of the moon as a shimmering spotlight in the center of the lake, locked in by the pavilion's shadow. The ebb and flow of seasons, the changing of weather-- even the shifting of light throughout the day-- can dramatically alter the Garden's appearance."
Tower of Cosmic Reflections (Teahouse)
"From this two-story building, women in the family would view the garden and surrounding city. Much of their time would be spent here or within the walls of the garden, managing the finances and affairs of the family. At Lan Su, it serves as a teahouse promoting the social art and culture of tea."
Scholar's Courtyard
"The courtyard is the extension of the scholar's study, a quiet place for reflection and inspiration. Here, symbols abound. The plum trees near the study's entrance blossom early, signaling the coming of spring and symbolizing endurance and hope. The plum motif is repeated in the mosaic floor pattern called 'plum blossoms on cracked ice.'"
"Drink in the green"
"Listen to the fragrance"
Scholar's Study
"The study was where the men of the family studied for civil service examinations which would ensure their family's prosperity. It served as a place of comfort for writing poetry, practicing calligraphy, reading, admiring art collections and entertaining fellow scholars. Everything necessary was kept at hand. Furniture was practical, but also served as an opportunity to display wealth."
Flowers Bathing in Spring Rain
"Lan Su is a special place in the midst of the city where we can escape traffic, calm our senses and reconnect with nature."
"Most cherished in this mundane world is a place without traffic; truly in the midst of a city there can be a mountain and forest."
Carved from gingko wood
Reflections in Clear Ripples
"In this room, also known as the lounge house, the family would gather for music, painting or playing games such as mahjong."
They had great art displays in here.
Knowing the Fish Pavilion
"In Chinese culture, all aspects of nature-- from plants and animals to the changing of the seasons-- offer an endless source of contemplation. Meditation, discussion and storytelling were popular activities in gardens."
Garden Shop
Prices weren't super outrageous
Well there ya have it! If 93 pictures aren't enough for you then... I don't know. You're greedy. Anyways, I hope these pictures inspire you to check out Lan Su Chinese Garden. :)
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