Visiting the Portland Japanese Garden
When I first visited Portland in the Summer of 2021, I was eager to see the city’s Japanese Garden. In fact, my friends and I drove to the garden only to find that the parking lot was packed and we decided to go elsewhere.
Luckily for me, I was finally able to visit the garden a few weeks ago on my latest trip to The City of Roses. Before I go any further, shout out to my friend Dana for driving and accompanying me on this excursion!
As you may or may not know, I absolutely love botanical gardens. I’ve been to several in California and now, in the PNW. That being said, the vivid colors and fall essence of the Portland Japanese Garden are unlike anything I’ve ever seen or experienced before.
The garden is not large but there is still plenty to see. There are ponds, Japanese architecture, and of course, greenery. There was also an art exhibit that was hosted in a Japanese-style building located at the center of the garden.
Dana and I walked the grounds and we were both stunned by the beauty that surrounded us. Out of all the things I did on my trip to the PNW, this might have been my favorite outing.
Moreover, this was something new for both Dana and me. Although he has lived in Portland since 2020, this was his first time visiting too.
If you, like me, live in Los Angeles, then you know that seasons don’t really exist here. However, I found exactly what I always imagined Fall to look like at the Portland Japanese Garden. It was the coldest I had ever felt (it was about 39 degrees) but I was living for it!
Dear reader, if you or anyone you know ever plans to visit Portland, the Japanese garden is a must-see! There are guided tours but Dana and I opted to walk around on our own at our own pace. If you want to learn more about the garden’s history and its symbolism, then I encourage you to take a tour.
Beyond enjoying nature, there is also a gift shop and a lovely cafe on the grounds. All in all, I had an amazing time at the Portland Japanese Garden and highly recommend it to all.
Know before you go:
The Portland Japanese Garden is located at 611 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205
The Garden is closed on Tuesdays but is open Wednesday-Monday from 10 am to 3:30 pm
Parking is available but is limited and costs around $8
Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for $20
For more information regarding the garden, gift shop, and cafe, check out their website
