Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland (must see)

Lan Su Chinese Garden is a walled classical garden shaped by the design traditions of Suzhou, a centre of garden-making during China’s Ming dynasty. It opened in 2000 after architects, landscape designers and more than 70 craftspeople from Suzhou worked with local partners to assemble its buildings and landscape. The name Lan Su can be read as “Garden of Awakening Orchids” and also reflects the cultural link behind the project.

Water, stone, plants and architecture are arranged as parts of a single composition. Lake Zither occupies the centre, crossed by bridges and bordered by pavilions, covered walkways and carefully framed views. More than 500 tons of rock were used, including porous Lake Tai stones whose weathered forms suggest mountain peaks. Poetry and calligraphy appear on rocks, doorways and wooden panels, adding literary meaning to the scenery.

The plant collection includes magnolias, peonies, camellias, rhododendrons, bamboo, osmanthus and other species associated with Chinese gardens. Many are placed for seasonal colour, fragrance or symbolic value rather than in formal flower beds. Twisting paths and changing sightlines make the compact space feel larger, while reflections, shadows and open windows create different views with each turn.

Visitors can pause in the Moon Locking Pavilion, follow the zigzag bridge or view the lake from the Tower of Cosmic Reflections. The Yun Shui Teahouse, whose name means “Cloud and Water,” serves traditionally prepared Chinese and Taiwanese teas with light food. Art displays, cultural programmes, guided tours and seasonal celebrations often form part of the visit, offering further insight into Chinese horticulture, tea culture and artistic traditions.