Set within Portland’s lush Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden is a stunningly authentic cultural retreat designed to celebrate Japanese tradition, philosophy, and art. Since its opening in 1967, this peaceful haven has grown into one of the most respected Japanese gardens outside of Japan, attracting visitors with its thoughtful landscaping, educational programming, and spiritual tranquility.

Recommended For

Cultural Explorers: Discover traditional tea ceremonies, seasonal exhibits, and authentic architecture.

Nature Lovers: Stroll through meticulously curated gardens featuring native and Japanese plant life.

Families & Students: Enjoy guided tours, poetry programs, and hands-on workshops for all ages.

What to Expect

  • Location: 611 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR 97205
  • Size: Over 5.5 acres across five distinct garden styles
  • Established: Opened to the public in 1967 after a design by Takuma Tono
  • Admission: Includes access to public guided tours, exhibits, and educational events

Highlights

  • The Tea House: Constructed in Japan and reassembled in Portland using traditional methods
  • Five Garden Styles: Flat, Strolling Pond, Tea, Natural, and Sand & Stone Gardens
  • Art in the Garden: Rotating exhibitions featuring bamboo, bonsai, ceramics, and more
  • Haiku Alive! Program: Student-focused poetry workshops blending culture and nature

Garden Styles

  • Flat Garden: Designed with symmetry, clipped shrubs, and raked sand to reflect the seasons
  • Strolling Pond Garden: Features stone bridges, waterfalls, and a zigzag path through iris beds
  • Tea Garden: A contemplative space leading to the tea house, accessed by lantern-lined paths
  • Natural Garden: The newest addition, incorporating native Oregon plants and flowing terrain
  • Sand and Stone Garden: Also known as the Zen Garden, designed for meditation and simplicity

Educational Programs

  • Workshops & Seminars: Hands-on experiences covering Japanese and Western gardening techniques
  • Lectures: Explore topics like spirituality, architecture, calligraphy, and traditional crafts
  • Art in the Garden: Events include bamboo demos, bonsai displays, and cultural installations

Visitor Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for seasonal blooms and mild weather
  • Guided Tours: Free with admission; offered daily—more frequent in summer
  • Plan Ahead: Allow 2+ hours for walking, exhibits, and shopping at the gift store

Gift Shop & Membership

  • Gift Shop: Offers Japanese art, calligraphy, sake sets, jewelry, and housewares
  • Support the Garden: Donate or join a tiered membership program for exclusive perks
  • Membership Benefits: Include guest passes, photography access, and members-only events

Contact & Hours

Portland Japanese Garden
Address: 611 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205
Phone: 503-223-1321
Website: japanesegarden.org

Map

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