Lan Su Chinese Garden

Don, Jerry, Sandy and I all had places that we wanted to see when we ventured into downtown Portland.  I had one main thing on my agenda: The Lan Su Chinese Garden.  Not only would it provide a lot of photo opportunities for me, I was interested in the history of this little island of serenity.

The garden was completed in 2000, and almost all of the building materials were shipped from China to Portland.  This included over 500 tons of rock.  Sixty five artisans were brought over  and lived here for the 10 months it took to complete the garden.  Lan Su features more than 300 plant species found in traditional Chinese gardens.  It represents the relationship between Portland and Suzhou, its sister city in the Jiangsu province.  The name translates to "Garden of the Awakening Orchids".

As you enter the first garden, the booklet tells you to look up at the two dragonfish on the roof.  They are there to swallow all evil influences and to also protect the building from fire.

 There are numerous doorways and windows situated throughout the garden, allowing you to see a view within a view.  It creates the illusion of infinite space.  Beautiful plants and carefully constructed stone walkways keep your eyes moving to different areas of each garden space.

Jerry took a minute to balance his negative and positive qi (pronounced "chee).  In traditional Chinese medicine, it is essential to have a good balance for a healthy body.  He did look rather refreshed after getting up out of the chair.  I needed one like that during my stressful working days!

 The wood panels below were in Vista F: "Flowers Bathing in Spring Rain".  The intricate carvings are made from gingko wood and represent the sister city of Suzhou.

This is part of the Scholar's Courtyard, a quiet place for reflection and contemplation.  Inscriptions above both sides of the circular moongate remind  people to look for meanings and use our senses in new ways.

The unusual rocks in the garden above and the picture below are from Lake Tai.  They are highly prized.  The rocks are formed underwater during the course of many decades.  Acidic waters from the lake erode the rocks, leaving unusual shapes.  The one below looked like someone had drilled holes through the rock.

The small boat anchored in the pond seemed to reflect all the peace and quiet of this amazing place. I'm glad we came!  May you also be blessed with peace and tranquility during your week.