Lan Su Chinese Garden, Classical Chinese garden in downtown Portland, United States.
Lan Su Chinese Garden is a classical Chinese garden in downtown Portland featuring traditional pavilions, pagodas, winding stone paths, and water features arranged around the central Zither Lake. The design follows the principles of classical Chinese landscape gardening, creating spaces where architecture and nature work together to guide visitors through different views and experiences.
This garden was created through a partnership between Portland and its sister city Suzhou, opening in 2000 after 65 Chinese artisans completed construction in 14 months. The project brought authentic classical Chinese gardening techniques to Portland and remains a symbol of the cultural exchange between the two cities.
The garden serves as a gathering place for tea ceremonies held in its dedicated teahouse and hosts seasonal programs celebrating Chinese arts and music. Visitors experience how these traditions are woven into the daily rhythm of the space, making it a living cultural hub rather than simply a historical display.
The garden is located near public transportation in downtown Portland and easy to reach on foot from surrounding neighborhoods. Restrooms and information services are available throughout, and the entire space is fully accessible so visitors of all abilities can enjoy the grounds comfortably.
The construction required 500 tons of rocks imported directly from China, yet the plants come from over 400 varieties sourced from local Oregon nurseries. This blend of imported materials with regional plants creates something unexpected—a garden that bridges two places rather than simply recreating one.
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