Tranquil Retreat: Portland Japanese Garden

Mossy, refreshing, tranquil, watery and green. That’s what I remember about my visit to the Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon. It’s been a few years since I walked through the garden, but I still feel peaceful when I remember it.

The Portland Japanese Garden was included in 1001 Gardens You Must See Before You Die, edited by Rae Spencer-Jones. That honor may not seem flattering until you realize those 1001 gardens are located all around the world.

The 5.5 acre garden is owned by the Japanese Garden Society of Oregon. It opened to the public in 1967 and has been praised as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan. When visiting, you’ll not only experience five beautiful gardens that seamlessly flow together, but you’ll likely catch a great view of Mount Hood.

The five gardens consist of a Sand and Stone Garden, Flat Garden, Strolling Pond Garden, Tea Garden and Natural Garden. They’re all so amazing in their own ways. It’s difficult to pick a favorite. Yet, I do have to say I’ve never seen anything like the Sand and Stone Garden, a style common to Zen monasteries. It seems the epitome of calm.

The Portland Japanese Garden is located above the Rose Gardens in Washington Park. If you’ve visited, please tell me what you thought in comments.

(Images by Peggy Rowland)