Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Portland Chinese Classical Garden

This block long garden is modeled on the estate of a retired scholar/administrator during the Ming Dynasty in Suzhou, one of the oldest cities in China. Portland is a sister city of Suzhou and received a lot of help from its artisans in transforming an old parking lot into a retired scholar's estate complete with gardens and man-made lake. It is literally an oasis in the middle of an urban jungle. The details are breathtaking. The overall effect is soothing and a Sunday afternoon can't be better spent.

There are guided tours that are included in the entrance fee which gives you some information on how and why things were constructed the way they are. There is also a tea house in which you can enjoy a cup of tea and some munchies.

Hidden mini-waterfall behind the willow tree.


Covered bridge leading to the living quarters from the Main Hall


Portal leading to the Scholar's Study


Entrance to Scholar's Study


Hanging lanterns in the Sitting Room


Mid-lake Pavillion




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