The Portland Japanese Garden is considered one of the most authentic gardens outside the country of Japan.

Be Immersed in Traditional Japanese Culture

When you visit the garden you will see volunteers dressed in beautiful kimonos. There is also an opportunity to watch a Japanese tea ceremony being conducted live. Unfortunately it was dark under the canopy where it took place, and my pictures did not turn out the greatest.

The Cultural Village

The garden had a huge remodel and expansion a few years ago. A “Cultural Village” was added, which will accommodate the rapid growth. Visitors can now enjoy more of traditional Japanese experience.

The newly updated space was designed by world renowned architect Kengo Kuma. He is also the mastermind behind the National Stadium for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

When you first enter the garden, you must hike a little way to get up top where the garden and village are located. No worries, no steep inclines our rock climbing skills needed! As you ascend , you will pass by the back side of the sushi restaurant. It seems to sit suspended in air, such a breathtaking scene.

This lovely tour is a great outing for the whole family, and is affordable- even for a large group. The entrance fee is just 14.95 per person, and less for children.

Art in the Garden

Portland Japanese Garden is a natural setting where you can explore Japanese art and design. Art exhibitions represent ideas and aesthetics integral to the Japananse lifestyle. Showcasing a wide array of artists and art forms, the exhibitions will feature ways we can experience peace through connections to art, nature and to each other.

History of the Garden

It was inspired in the late 1950’s to help the cultural ties between Oregon and Japan. The garden was built on the site of the old zoo in Washington Park. The idea was to begin a healing relationship on the heels of World War II.

At this time in history, Japanese gardens were being started up all across the country to help build cultural awareness. It was a way for Americans to learn about Japanese values that were spoken of, softly through nature.

Enjoy Serenity at the Fish Ponds

One of the best parts of the Garden are the beautiful ponds. There is an upper and lower pond. If you are looking for a quiet serenity, hang out at one of them. The pond is the home to huge Koi. In May of 2011, the Portland Japanese Garden released 18 Koi to the upper Koi Pond; in conjunction with The Children’s Day Celebration.

In the winter of 2008, a huge snow storm came to the area. During that time, nohe of the garden employees could get to the garden because of the big mounds of snow.

Unfortunately the Koi suffocated due to the layer of ice on the pond. After this terrible loss, the Japanese Garden did a big renovation and moved most of the fish to the lower pond.

What to Wear at Portland Japanese Garden

When on a tour or visiting a certain destination, I dress to match the venue. When my tour of the gardne was confirmed, I started shopping for the rightoutfit. I was hoping to find traditional Japanese attire, such as a kimono.

Instead I found this beautiful floral print dress. I was very happy to find it and thought it was perfect for a tour of the garden. To complete this Japanese garden look: Add a red straw hat, red sandals, a stylish over the shoulder bag and your favorite pair of sunnies. Now you are ready to rock the garden in style

Thrift shopping always delivers when you are in a pinch. If you are planning a visit here or a similar garden elsewhere; Japanese styles can be found on Ebay, Amazon and Poshmark.

New Timed Entry Tickets

As we know the Pandemic has change how we travel and move about. Portland Japanese Garden is now selling timed entry tickets, every 30 minutes during its hours of operation. Tickets can be purchased 7 days in advance. The last available time for purchase is 3:30 p.m.

And so …Here’s What to Know Before You Go:

• Wear a face covering indoors and outdoors
• Observe physical distancing
• Stay on approved paths and watch for one-way routes
• Download the Parking Kitty App for touchless metered parking
• Take your time and take care , and be well

Step Into a Different Garden Every Season

With the changing of seasons in the Pacific Northwest, you never step into the same garden twice. Gorgeous shrubs, greenery and flowers blanket the garden throughout. If you plan to visit the Northwest, it is best to wait until late spring or summer. That’s when the weather is warmer and everything is in full bloom.

There are many areas to navigate in the garden. With every turn, you’ll see a different view. There was a mossy cover all over the ground, shimmering like a velvety green carpet. Every spot in the garden is so peaceful and relaxing.

Mount Hood Views

Lastly, don’t miss the breathtaking view of Mount Hood at the back of the garden. I could’ve stayed for this view all day long. There was some cloud cover, but it was still so beautiful.

The garden is located near Nob Hill . When I visited Portland Japanese Garden, I had fun discovering a new area of Portland. I hope someday you can visit the gardens.