"Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things
flow naturally forward in whatever way they like." -Lao Tzu
At the corner of NW Everett and NW 3rd, there is a serene getaway from the busy urban surroundings. After living in the Portland metro area for 7 years, it's a little surprising that I have never been to the Lan Su Chinese Garden (one of Portland's biggest attractions) until yesterday. Although I had to park downtown, it really wasn't bad at 10:30 AM on a Thursday morning and I found a spot close-by and paid for an hour and a half ($2.40). Student admission required another $7 and then I was on my way into the garden.
Some background info:
"The name Lan Su Chinese Garden represents the relationship between Portland and Suzhou, our sister city in China's Jiangsu province that is famous for its beautiful gardens. Sounds from both Portland and Suzhou are combined to form Lan Su. 'Lan' is also the Chinese word for 'Orchid' and 'Su' is the word for 'Arise' or 'Awaken' so the name is interpreted poetically as 'Garden of Awakening Orchids.'
Considered a 'paradise on earth,' Suzhou was the wealthiest, most prosperous and sophisticated city in China from the 14th through the 19th century. The wealthy and powerful sought to live or retire in Suzhou and spent fortunes building elaborate gardens. Today, sixty of these original gardens survive, eight of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites."
-Lan Su Chinese Garden Brochure
All I can say is wow! This place truly is beautiful and amazing! Between the exotic architecture, blooming flowers, and undisturbed waters, it's a photographer's paradise (hence my 93 photos). I completely forgot that I was in a downtown city block. Well, for the most part.
While exploring through this rather large garden I couldn't help but feel overwhelming serenity and tranquility. I just really felt comfortable being there. Luckily, my late morning/early afternoon weekday timing allowed me to avoid crowds pretty easily. Even though there are guided tours available, the garden is very easy to wander around in and with the pamphlet I got at the front entrance, I learned quite a bit about the garden and gave myself a tour. There are lots of activities in the garden as well. From Tai Chi (as shown above) to art viewing (shown below) to having lunch at a traditional Chinese tea house.
Whether you're a tourist or a Portlandian, whether you're old or young, whether you're interested in Chinese culture or not, you shouldn't miss out on the Lan Su Chinese Garden. I promise that the beauty, serenity, and artwork will inspire you.
239 Northwest Everett Street
Summer Hours
April 1-October 31
10 am-6 pm
Winter Hours
November 1-March 31
10 am-5 pm
Admission
Members-Free
Adults-$9.50
Seniors (62+)-$8.50
Students-$7.00
Family Pass (2 adults, 2 students)-$28.00
Children 5 and under-Free
503-228-8131
Experience: ★★★★★
Price: $$
Family Friendly: Yes
Want to see more of Lan Su Chinese Garden? Be sure to check out the photo tour
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