If you’re in the US, there are no shortages of destinations and attractions to see. Our recent stopover in Portland, Oregon was no exception. We chose Portland because our friends from Korea moved back to their hometown and to pop in with the 3 Non Joggers. While exploring our surroundings, we discovered our Guesthouse was a short distance away from the Portland Japanese Garden, rumored to be the best Japanese style garden outside of Japan. With a boast like that, we had to make a stop.
History
Located adjacent to the Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden began as an initiative between the city and Sapporo, Japan in 1963. Four years later, the garden opened and now sees more than 225,000 visitors annually. Takuma Tono oversaw the garden’s initial development and served as the original director. Now, nearly 50 years later, its ninth director oversees the Portland Japanese Garden. It is this team that manages the 5.5 acre property and provides numerous artistic and cultural events throughout the year.
Japanese Garden(s)
When looking at the website or a map, you’ll see the area listed as “The Japanese Garden.” It’s a bit of a misnomer, since the grounds actually contain five different types of Japanese style gardens. They consist of the Strolling Pond, Tea, Natural, Sand & Stone, and Flat Gardens. These gardens embody what the designers consider to be essential elements for Japanese Gardens: stone, representing bones; water, the giver of life; plants, the “tapestry of the four seasons.” Pagodas, lanterns, and bridges dot the landscape drawing visitors into the relaxing atmosphere.
When visiting the Japanese Garden, plan on spending a few hours at least. While it’s possible to sprint through the entire complex in less than hour, the garden is best to take one’s time to truly take in the exquisite beauty. Koi swim blissfully in the ponds and provide a focal point for children and those captivated by their swift lines. The teahouse (in the Tea Garden) was brought over from Japan, piece by piece, and on May 5th, a special program for children takes place, where they can participate and learn the intricacies of this ancient ritual. The Heavenly Falls, a large waterfall in the between the Tea and Natural Gardens, provides a picturesque backdrop for those wanting to see water’s raw power. If meditation is your cup of tea, several benches near the Sand & Stone and Natural Gardens allow for peaceful internal reflection.
Information
Address: 611 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR 97205
Phone: (503) 223-1321
Admission Fees:
- $9.50 Adult
- $7.75 Senior (62+)
- $7.75 College Student (w/ID)
- $6.75 Youth (6-17)
- Children 5 and under free
Directions
By Mass Transit
On weekdays only, year-round, the Garden is served by TriMet bus #63 which connects to the MAX stations at the Oregon Zoo and JELD-WEN Field. The #63 does not run on weekends.
During summer, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, frequent TriMet shuttle service connects the Garden and the MAX Light Rail station at the Oregon Zoo. The shuttle service runs on weekends only the remainder of May, September and October.
For those who don’t mind a walk—every day, the frequent-service buses #15-NW 23rd and #20-Burnside both stop at NW 23rd & Burnside, which is about 1 mile away uphill through Washington Park.
By Car
From I-405 (downtown Portland) follow signs for Highway 26 West. From Highway 26 West, take the Oregon Zoo & Forestry Center exit. Bear right after the exit and follow signs for the Forestry Center. Continue up the hill past the Forestry Center and make a right turn onto Kingston Drive (there will be a wooden sign for the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden just before the turn). Follow Kingston Drive about two miles through Washington Park. At the stop sign, make a left turn onto Kingston Avenue and go two blocks. You will see our parking lot on your left.
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