October 2011

Featured Event

The Essence of Tea

October 1-31

Better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one
--Chinese Proverb

The Chinese have enjoyed tea for millennia. Scholars hailed the brew as a cure for a variety of ailments; the nobility considered tea consumption a mark of status and the common people simply enjoyed its flavor. In October, visitors to Lan Su Chinese Garden can participate in all kinds of tea activities and create their own experiences with tea.

October Calendar of Events

All month
Display of antique and unique Chinese tea pots

Saturday, October 1
10:00 a.m. - Pang Family Qigong
3:00-4:00 p.m. - Orchid & Bamboo Chinese Quartet

Sunday, October 2
Free Admission for Children under 18 as part of the Oregon Day of Culture
12:00-5:00 p.m. - Wei Chi (Chinese Go)
2:00-4:00 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
2:00-3:00 p.m. - Poetry Reading with Daniel Skatch-Mills

Monday, October 3
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Tuesday, October 4
8:00-10:00 a.m. - Photographer Member Early Hours
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-2:30 p.m. - Tea Talk with James Norwood Pratt
1:00-4:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Garden
2:00 p.m. - Plant Walk with Lan Su’s Horticultural Staff

Wednesday, October 5
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Thursday, October 6
10:00 a.m. - Tai Chi
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m.- Mahjong with the Portland Mahjong Society
3:00 p.m. - National College of Natural Medicine Lecture Series: To Everything There is a Season - The Pericardium and the Dog

Friday, October 7
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00 p.m. - Tea Talk with Jason Chen
1:00-3:00 p.m. - Gong Fu Tea Ceremony

Saturday, October 8
10:30 a.m. - T’ai Chi Chih
1:00 p.m. - Wu-Wo Tea Ceremony
2:00-3:00 p.m. - Poetry Reading with Daniel Skatch-Mills

Sunday, October 9
All Day - Oregon Orchid Society Show
11:00 a.m. - Orchid Potting Demonstration
12:00 p.m. - Orchid Talk with the Oregon Orchid Society
1:00 p.m. - Orchid Potting Demonstration
2:00 p.m. - Orchid Talk with the Oregon Orchid Society
2:00-4:00 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
3:00 p.m. - Orchid Potting Demonstration

Monday, October 10
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Tuesday, October 11
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-4:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Garden
2:00 p.m. - Plant Walk with Lan Su’s Horticultural Staff

Wednesday, October 12
12:00-2:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00 p.m. - “Creating a Spa-Like Bedroom and Master Bath with Feng Shui” - Feng Shui Tea Talk with Gwynne Warner of 10,000 Blessings Feng Shui

Thursday, October 13
10:00 a.m. - Tai Chi
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m.- Mahjong with the Portland Mahjong Society
3:00 p.m. - National College of Natural Medicine Lecture Series: To Everything There is a Season - The Triple Warmer and the Pig

Friday, October 14
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m. - “Create Your Own Tea Blend” Tea Activity

Saturday, October 15
1:00-5:00 p.m. - Mahjong with the Portland Mahjong Society

Sunday, October 16
10:00 a.m. - Digital Photography Workshop with Laura Lawn
2:00-4:00 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Monday, October 17
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Tuesday, October 18
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-4:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Garden
2:00 p.m. - Plant Walk with Lan Su’s Horticultural Staff

Wednesday, October 19
12:00-2:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00 p.m. - “Creating Refuge with Feng Shui: Simple Alters and Meditations” - Feng Shui Tea Talk with Gwynne Warner of 10,000 Blessings Feng Shui

Thursday, October 20
10:00 a.m. - Tai Chi
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m.- Mahjong with the Portland Mahjong Society
3:00 p.m. - National College of Natural Medicine Lecture Series: To Everything There is a Season - The Gallbladder and the Rat

Friday, October 21
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m. - Gong Fu Tea Ceremony

Saturday, October 22
11:00 a.m. - Shibashi Qigong with Diane Harris

Sunday, October 23
2:00-4:00 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Monday, October 24
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Tuesday, October 25
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-4:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Garden
2:00 p.m. - Plant Walk with Lan Su’s Horticultural Staff

Wednesday, October 26
12:00-2:00 p.m. - Calligraphy in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00 p.m. - “Creating a Feng Shui Lifestyle with Less Stress” - Feng Shui Tea Talk with Gwynne Warner of 10,000 Blessings Feng Shui

Thursday, October 27
10:00 a.m. - Tai Chi
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m.- Mahjong with the Portland Mahjong Society
3:00 p.m. - National College of Natural Medicine Lecture Series: To Everything There is a Season - The Liver and the Ox

Friday, October 28
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)
1:00-3:00 p.m. - Gong Fu Tea Ceremony

Saturday, October 29
No events scheduled

Sunday, October 30
2:00-4:00 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

Monday, October 31
12:00-2:30 p.m. - Music in the Teahouse (requires order of tea)

calendar google

All Events

All Events at Lan Su

Fun & Games - Chinese Style

Table Tennis on the Terrace every SundayJuly 1 - August 31

Throughout Chinese history, gardens have been places of recreation. A Chinese family, who owned a garden similar to Lan Su, would enjoy mahjong, chess, dice, cards, yo-yo and other games and forms of entertainment.

July and August at Lan Su Chinese Garden offers a chance to observe and play many traditional Chinese games and those which have evolved over time. Come and play!

For a complete list of Chinese Fun & Games events, visit the Event Calendar.

Chinese Fun & Games Events

Pang Family Qigong
Saturdays, July 2 & August 6
10:00 a.m.

Wild Goose Qigong
Every Wednesday
4:00 p.m.

Participate in Tai Chi
Every Thursday
10:00 a.m.

T’ai Chi Chih
Saturdays, July 9 & August 13
10:30 a.m.

Create a Paper Fan
Every Friday
1:00 p.m.

Observe and learn the Chinese yo-yo, knot tying, paper cutting and more with teachers from local Chinese Schools
Saturdays
10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 2:00-4:00 p.m. (see schedule on the Event Calendar)

Fun with Chinese for kids age 3-5!
Monday-Friday, August 8-12
Please note: Parent or caregiver must participate in this class.

Dragon Art Rod Puppet Theater
Saturdays, July 16 & August 20
11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Play Table Tennis on the Terrace
Every Sunday
10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Learn Chinese Checkers
Sundays, July 3, 17 and 31 & August 7 and 21
1:00-3:00 p.m.

Learn Chinese Chess
Sundays, July 10 and 24 & August 14 and 28

Scholar’s Arts

September 1-30

September at Lan Su is dedicated to the scholar. Through a partnership with the Wisdom Arts Academy, the month will be filled with the traditional Chinese scholar’s arts of poetry, calligraphy, music and painting.

An ancient Chinese garden was a place for male family members to practice traditional gentlemanly and scholarly arts such as painting, calligraphy, poetry and music. These activities took place in the Scholar’s Hall (the equivalent of the father’s office). Wives, concubines, unmarried women and daughters would congregate on the top floor of a two-story building (the Teahouse at Lan Su) to practice traditional arts of embroidery and dowry preparation.

These arts come to life at Lan Su Chinese Garden during September thanks to program partners Wisdom Arts Academy.

The Art of Embroidery

Exquisite hand-made, silk embroidered art from Suzhou - Every day in September

The Arts of Calligraphy & Painting

Calligraphy demonstrations - Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m.
Chinese book making - Fridays, 1-3 p.m.
Brush painting demonstrations - Thursdays, 1-5 p.m.

The Art of Poetry

Poetry readings by Oregon poets (including Paulann Peterson, Oregon’s Poet Laureate) - Saturdays at 2 p.m.

Learn more about Steeped in Words, Lan Su’s poetry reading series.

The Art of Music

History of Chinese Music Talk - Friday, Sept. 2 at 2 p.m.
Children’s Music Ensemble - Sunday, Sept. 11 at 11:30 a. m.
Children’s Dance and Music Troupe - Sunday, Sept. 25, 11:30 a.m.

About Scholar’s Arts partner, Wisdom Arts Academy

Wisdom Arts Academy is part of the existing Mercy & Wisdom Healing Center in Portland’s Old Town Chinatown neighborhood. It is dedicated to helping heal the body and mind by using traditional Chinese arts and wellness programs in conjunction with traditional Chinese medicine.

Learn more about the Wisdom Arts Academy at www.wisdomarts.org.
Learn more about Mercy Wisdom & Healing at www.mercywisdom.org.

Wisdom Arts Academy Special Benefit Concert

Sunday, September 25 - 7:00 p.m.

On Sunday, September 25, the Wisdom Arts Academy will present a special benefit concert with an evening of traditional Chinese music and beautiful dance performances.

The concert will introduce Chinese music from Southern China, especially music from the ethnic minorities from the Guangxi province. Three master musicians from China will join local Chinese musicians for a beautiful musical program.

The musicians will play traditional Chinese instrument such as the Hulusi, Banhu, Duxinqin and Baowu, as well as the more common instruments of the Dizi, Erhu, Pipa, Guzheng and Yangqin. The students of the Wisdom Arts Academy will perform Chinese ethnic minority music and dance. This will be a grand show you will not want to miss!

Concert proceeds benefit the Wisdom Arts Academy and Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Tickets:
Lan Su Member: $22
General: $25

Tickets are limited so purchase your ticket now!

Mooncakes & Pomegranates

Wednesday, September 14, 2011
VIP Pre-Event Reception - 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Event - 6:30-8:30 p.m.

An elegant evening in Lan Su Chinese Garden, Mooncakes & Pomegranates is a chance to discover tantalizing tastes from some of Portland’s finest restaurants while supporting Lan Su.

In addition to amazing food from local chefs, Echo Jazz Trio will entertain with unexpected and spontaneous music that jumps seamlessly from a jazz standard to an arrangement of a Radiohead tune.

Limited Seating VIP Pre-Event Reception
New this year is a limited-ticket private pre-event reception, catered by the award-winning culinary team from Olympic Provisions. Indulge all of your senses as you sample house-cured charcuterie and other appetizers, sip bubbly and drink in one of the best views of Lan Su from your Teahouse seat.

THE PRE-EVENT RECEPTION IS NOW SOLD OUT. Remaining event tickets are selling fast. Be sure to purchase your ticket now!

Supporting restaurants include:

And VIP supporting restaurant:

Olympic Provisions

First Thursdays at Lan Su

Silk Embroidery Art on Display and SaleFirst Thursdays of each month through 2011
6:00-8:00 p.m.

Each First Thursday though the end of 2011, Lan Su will be open for free from 6-8 p.m.

An opportunity to experience Lan Su at dusk, each First Thursday will give members a chance to introduce the garden to friends and family as well as see a rotating series of artist’s works. This month, as part of Scholars Arts, features the artwork from students of Wisdom Arts Academy.

On each First Thursday, members can show their membership card to receive a beverage of their choice to thank them for their support of Lan Su.

Steeped in Words: Lan Su Chinese Garden Poetry Reading Series

Poet Daniel Skach-Mills reading from The Hut Beneath the PineSaturdays in September
2:00 p.m.

As a part of the Scholars Art’s Month, Lan Su will host a weekly series of poetry readings every Saturday in September. Participating poets include Paulann Petersen, Oregon’s Poet Laureate; Ken Arnold; Margaret Chula; and Daniel Skach-Mills.

Margaret Chula - “The Smell of Rust”
Saturday, September 3

Paulann Petersen - “The Voluptuary”
Saturday, September 10

Daniel Skach-Mills - “The Hut Beneath the Pines”
Saturday, September 17

Ken Arnold - “Circle of the Way”
Saturday, September 24

Learn more, including a biography of each poet at the Steeped in Words: Lan Su Chinese Garden Poetry Reading Series page.

Digital Photography Workshop

Third Sunday of the Month, September through December
10:00-11:00 a.m.
Free with Garden admission or membership

Join local photographer Laura Lawn for a series of digital photography workshops in Lan Su. A digital photographic artist and instructor at Chemeketa Community College, Laura will teach you basic concepts, how to take better photos with a few simple tips and how best to shoot flowers and other plants.

Workshops can be taken as a series or just as a single class. Free with admission or membership, no registration required.

Introduction to photography and learning to see with photography in mind
September 18

Getting to Know Your Camera
October 16

Learning intimate details and Macro Photography
November 20

Photographing garden design and showing the underlying meaning of a location through imagery
December 18

Learn more about the workshops on the Digital Photography Workshops page.

Lan Su Partner Events

Wisdom Arts Academy Special Benefit Concert

Wisdom Arts Academy Special Benefit ConcertSunday, September 25 - 7:00 p.m.

On Sunday, September 25, the Wisdom Arts Academy will present a special benefit concert with an evening of traditional Chinese music and beautiful dance performances.

Concert proceeds benefit the Wisdom Arts Academy and Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Tickets:
Lan Su Member: $22
General: $25

Tickets are limited so purchase your ticket now!

Learn more about this event and the partnership with Wisdom Arts Academy at the Scholar’s Arts page.

Activities in the Garden

During the year, the Garden is offering members and visitors alike the opportunity to experience a variety of activities, lectures, and classes. These programs will serve to enhance visitors’ understanding of Chinese culture and also provide an opportunity for visitors and members to learn and play. All activities unless otherwise noted are free with admission or membership.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi
Every Thursday
10:00 a.m

At 10:00 a.m. every Thursday in the Garden, enjoy a free drop-in Tai Chi presentation.

Led by instructor Mark Parzynski of Natural Health Arts, the presentation will showcase a different movement each week and provide the basic understanding of Tai Chi and how practicing Tai Chi will achieve a healthy body combined with a peaceful mind.

Learn more about Mark Parzynski and Natural Health Arts at www.naturalhealtharts.com.

Free with garden admission or membership, no registration required.

Plant Walk

Plant Walk
Every Tuesday
2:00 p.m.

Discover the sights and smells of what’s in bloom with the weekly Plant Walk. Led by Lan Su’s horticulture staff, the Bloom Walk will showcase the garden’s current “featured attractions” and give you the opportunity to learn about these plants and how you can use them in your own garden.

Free with admission, no registration required.

Mahjong

Mahjong
Every Thursday
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

3rd Saturday of each month
1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Join the Portland Mahjong Society as they play in the Garden. Whether you know how to play or are intrigued by this traditional Chinese game, you are encouraged to watch and participate in this fascinating game.

Free with admission, no registration required.

Wei Chi (Chinese Go)

Wei Chi
First Sunday of every month
12:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Whether you know how to play or simply are fascinated by the artfulness of this ancient Chinese game, you are encouraged to watch, to participate, and to ask questions as the Portland Go Club plays Wei Chi in the Garden. Wei chi is a game of strategy and skill and been enjoyed in Chinese gardens for centuries. The Garden Gift Store has wei chi (go) boards and books so you can continue the fun at home.

Wei Chi with the Portland Go Club will continue the first Sunday of every month.

Free with admission, no registration required.

Wild Goose Qigong

Wild Goose Qigong
Every Wednesday
4:00 p.m.

Teachers and Practitioners of Wild Goose Qigong will be in the Garden every Wednesday afternoon, May through September at 4 p.m. for ongoing practice. Kathryn Langstaff and Lita Buttolph are practitioners of Dayan, Wild Goose Qigong. This is an ancient Chinese Taoist and Buddhist movement art that nurtures one’s inner energy—qi—and restores a healthy mind and body. It consists of two sets of 64 movements that mimic the wild goose, a highly revered animal in ancient China. With regular practice one can learn to access qi for self-healing, restore vital energy, and strengthen one’s immune system to promote a healthy, balanced and long life.

Free with admission or membership, no registration required.

Pang Family Qigong

Pang Family Qigong
First Saturday of every month
10:00 a.m.

Join instructors Mike and Cheri Burghardt for Pang Family style Qigong. Qigong is low impact and gentle exercises that can be done sitting or standing to promote healing in the body, reducing stress, and promote feeling good. By doing simple exercises, the goal is to correct imbalances and blockages in the body that accumulate throughout our lifetime. These include poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, injuries, surgery, toxic influences, suppression of emotions, and aging.

Pang Family Qigong occurs on the first Saturday of every month.

Free with admission or membership, no registration required.

T’ai Chi Chih

T’ai Chi Chih
Second Saturday of every month
10:30 a.m.

Local teachers and students doing a group practice of t’ai chi chih, a moving meditation, incorporating 19 movements and a final pose involving the generating, circulating, and balancing of chi energy.

The T’ai Chi Chih practice will occur on the second Saturday of every month.

Free with admission, no registration required.

Events in the Teahouse

Melody of the Purple Bamboo: Traditional Chinese Music in the Teahouse

Music in the Teahouse

Every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
12:00-2:30 p.m.

Every Sunday
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m

Listen to music from the Portland Orchids and Bamboo Chinese Ensemble as you sip tea in the Teahouse.

Free, with order of tea service and Garden admission

Calligraphy in the Teahouse

Every Wednesday
12:00-2:30 p.m.

Dr. Jiyu Yang discusses and demonstrates the classical Chinese art forms of poetry and calligraphy. Bring home your favorite poem in beautiful calligraphic script.

Free, with order of tea service and Garden admission in the Garden’s Teahouse

Steeped in Words: Lan Su Chinese Garden Poetry Reading Series

Poet Daniel Skach-Mills reading from The Hut Beneath the PineSaturdays in September
2:00 p.m.

Poets

Margaret Chula - “The Smell of Rust”

Saturday, September 3

Margaret Chula lived in Kyoto, Japan for twelve years where she taught English and creative writing at Doshisha Women’s College. She also studied the traditional arts of woodblock printing and flower arrangement. Writing haiku, tanka, and haibun for more than thirty years, she travels internationally to promote these forms through presentations and workshops. She currently serves as President of the Tanka Society of America.

Her award winning collections include Grinding my Ink; This Moment; Shadow Lines; Always Filling, Always Full; The Smell of Rust; and What Remains: Japanese Americans in Internment Camps (with quilt artist Cathy Erickson). In 2009, she was inaugurated as Poet Laureate of Friends of Chamber Music in Portland, Oregon, composing poems while attending their concerts.

Visit Margaret Chula’s website at www.margaretchula.com.

Paulann Petersen - “The Voluptuary”

Saturday, September 10

Oregon’s sixth Poet Laureate, Paulann Petersen is a former Stegner Fellow at Stanford University whose poems have appeared in many publications including Poetry, The New Republic, Prairie Schooner, and Wilderness Magazine. She has four chapbooks; Under the Sign of a Neon Wolf, The Animal Bride, Fabrication, and The Hermaphrodite Flower. Her first full-length collection of poems, The Wild Awake, was published by Confluence Press in 2002. A second, Blood-Silk, poems about Turkey, was published by Quiet Lion Press of Portland in 2004. A Bride of Narrow Escape was published by Cloudbank Books as part of its Northwest Poetry Series in 2006. Kindle was published by Mountains and Rivers Press in 2008. Her latest book, The Voluptuary, was recently published by Lost Horse Press.

Visit Paulann Petersen’s website at www.oregonpoetlaureate.org.

Daniel Skach-Mills - “The Hut Beneath the Pines”

Saturday, September 17

Daniel Skach-Mills was born in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and raised in Portland, Oregon. He holds an undergraduate degree from Marylhurst University, Marylhurst, Oregon; and a graduate degree from St. Martin’s University in Lacey, Washington. His award-winning poetry has been published in a variety of publications and anthologies, including: The Christian Science Monitor; The Christian Century; Sojourners; Open Spaces; and Prayers To Protest: Poems That Center And Bless Us (Pudding House Publications, 1998). His chapbook, Gold: Daniel Skach-Mills’ Greatest Hits, 1990-2000 was published by Pudding House in 2001; and a full-length collection, The Tao of Now (published by Ken Arnold Books in 2008) was listed as one of the “ ... 150 outstanding Oregon poetry books” by Jim Baker, columnist for The Oregonian; David Biespiel, editor of Poetry Northwest; and Jim Scheppke, Oregon State Librarian.

Ken Arnold - “Circle of the Way”

Saturday, September 24

Ken Arnold is an award-winning playwright and poet, and author of books in spirituality. His poems have appeared in numerous magazines. As a Eugene O’Neill Fellow in 1979, he developed his play She Also Dances, which was cited in Best Plays of 1983. It has been produced in several US and European theaters. His current theater piece is Noh Garden, an experiment in combining traditional Japanese Noh drama with western myth, poetry, and music. His most recent book, Circle of the Way, is comprised of Haibun, a Japanese form that combines poetic prose and haiku. He will be reading selections of his work from the past forty years. He lives in Portland, Oregon.

Visit Ken Arnold’s website at www.webworks.ken-arnold.com.

Digital Photography Workshop

Third Sunday of the month, September through December 2011
10:00-11:00 a.m.
Free with Garden admission or membership

Workshops can be taken as a series or just as a single class. Free with admission or membership, no registration required.

Introduction to photography and learning to see with photography in mind
September 18

Learn basic techniques and concepts that will help photographers with any type of camera improve their skills, such as learning to see and modify light and to build effective compositions. Learn how to instantly improve your images with a few simple concepts.

Getting to Know Your Camera
October 16

Once you begin to hone your creative eye, learning to utilize the features of the camera will only help you continue to improve your photography skills. We will focus on the big five camera features: focus, controlling depth of field and motion, exposure control, ISO and white balance. Once you have these fundamental functions under your control, your photography truly becomes creative art.

Learning intimate details and Macro Photography
November 20

A world of interest lies in the smallest space. What better place to photograph macros and flowers than in the serenity of the Lan Su Chinese Garden? We will cover specialty equipment for macro photography, focusing and composition considerations, and other tips and tricks to improve your portfolio.

Photographing garden design and showing the underlying meaning of a location through imagery
December 18

We will stroll through the garden and look at each aspect, using a variety of lenses (wide angle and telephoto) to capture the innate and intricate design that is specific to the Lan Su Chinese Garden, to capture the meaning of the garden’s design on camera. We will cover the storytelling approach to photographing a location, coming home with a series of good images (not snapshots) that tell a more complete story that a single one alone can.

Visit Laura Lawn’s website at www.lauralawnstudios.com

Plan Your Visit

Lan Su Chinese Garden offers infinite paths to discovery, whether you are a visitor simply taking in the beauty of the garden for the first time or a member who comes back day after day to sip tea in the teahouse. One visit just isn’t enough to take in the depth and abundance of experiences. Lan Su is ever-changing—by the minute, by the hour, and with the seasons. Something as simple as the shifting of light throughout the day can dramatically alter the garden’s appearance and your experience. You’ll always discover something new at Lan Su.

Are you...

A First Time Visitor

First Time Visitors

Things to consider:

Our award winning Visitor Guide is your best bet for a great overview of Lan Su and an introduction to the hundreds of years of Chinese history and culture the garden encompasses. Lan Su also offers tours of the garden led by trained docents who can give you a little more depth on what you are seeing.

During your visit, you are also encouraged to join in or participate in any of our events occurring in Lan Su, take as many pictures as you’d like, stop by the Teahouse for a cup of tea or simply sit and enjoy the tranquility.

Be sure to stop by the Garden Shop for a postcard or other memento to remind you of your visit.

A Returning Visitor

Returning VisitorsVisiting Lan Su on a return trip offers you the chance to explore a little more deeply than the first time.

Things to consider:

The Garden Shop offers a great selection of Chinese music CDs in addition to books on the history, culture and gardens of China to enhance your learning about Chinese gardens. One book not to miss is Listen to the Fragrance, a book detailing all of the calligraphic poetry within Lan Su.

Visiting with Kids

Visiting with KidsLan Su offers many chances to begin a conversation about how people in other cultures live, dig into history and spark imaginations with cool rocks, building shapes, and textures.

Things to consider:

See what activities we have going on the day of your visit for kids to participate in
Be sure to check out our cost-saving Family Pass for a discounted admission for two adults, and two students
Ask for a copy of our Discovery Guide for kids at the front gate
A popular activity is trying to find all of the fish in Lake Zither

If you are planning a visit with a baby or toddler, small strollers are easy to maneuver through our narrow pathways. Larger strollers can create difficulties for you and other guests in trying to walk through the garden. We can help provide a place to “park” a large stroller at the front gate if needed. Small snacks and sippy cups are allowed in the garden, we just ask that any drink have a lid.

Our Garden Shop features large selection of items for kids and priced perfectly for those on an allowance including finger traps, Chinese yo yos and more. Be sure to stop in on your visit.

A Plant Lover

Plant LoversChina is home to more than 30,000 plant species; one-eighth of the world’s total! Many of the plants we know and love in the West originated in China.

Things to consider:

Take a plant tour with a member of Lan Su’s horticulture staff
Check out the “Plants to See” page for featured or blooming plants
Become a member to see the plants in every season and get first pick at Lan Su’s Annual Spring Plant Sale
Take home one of our monthly featured plants for sale in the Courtyard of Tranquility

If you are in the garden and have a question about a plant or wonder what we are doing to a specific plant, please feel free to ask. One of our horticultural staff members will be happy to answer your questions.

A Member

Members
Things to consider:

Get first pick at Lan Su’s Annual Spring Plant Sale

Members are an integral part of Lan Su’s success and we thank you for your support.

Photo Workshops

Digital Photography Workshop

Third Sunday of the month, September through December 2011
10:00-11:00 a.m.
Free with Garden admission or membership

Workshops can be taken as a series or just as a single class. Free with admission or membership, no registration required.

Introduction to photography and learning to see with photography in mind
September 18

Getting to Know Your Camera
October 16

Learning intimate details and Macro Photography
November 20

Photographing garden design and showing the underlying meaning of a location through imagery
December 18

Visit Laura Lawn’s website at www.lauralawnstudios.com

Steeped in Words

Steeped in Words: Lan Su Chinese Garden Poetry Reading Series

Poet Daniel Skach-Mills reading from The Hut Beneath the PineSaturdays in September
2:00 p.m.

Poets

Margaret Chula - “The Smell of Rust”

Saturday, September 3

Visit Margaret Chula’s website at www.margaretchula.com.

Paulann Petersen - “The Voluptuary”

Saturday, September 10

Visit Paulann Petersen’s website at www.oregonpoetlaureate.org.

Daniel Skach-Mills - “The Hut Beneath the Pines”

Saturday, September 17

Ken Arnold - “Circle of the Way”

Saturday, September 24

Visit Ken Arnold’s website at www.webworks.ken-arnold.com.

Living Social

Lan Su Chinese Garden is today’s featured Portland Deal of the Day on LivingSocial.

To purchase the deal, you must visit www.LivingSocial.com and purchase it there or on through the LivingSocial app on your smartphone.

What are the deals?

Lan Su is offering two deals today. The first is two admission tickets (regular price of $17) for $8 plus 10% off in the Garden Shop. That is a savings of $9 for the pair or more than 53% off, even before the discount in the Garden Shop.

The second deal is for a Family Pass (two adults, two students or one adult, three students) for $12 plus 10% off in the Garden Shop. That’s a savings of $13 for the pass or more than 52% off even before the discount in the Garden Shop.

Who (or what) is LivingSocial?

In their own words…
LivingSocial offers daily deals on handpicked experiences that can be shared with friends. Our mission is to add surprise to every calendar. So we dig deep, pursuing both the things that define a place and the undiscovered jewels. We design total experiences that bring an adventurous, loyal new following to local businesses. Innovation and imagination have made LivingSocial the fastest-growing company in the social-buying category. We satisfy cravings for the new and different at significant savings. LivingSocial means living with real connection. We shape social lives.

Can I get this deal at the door?

Unfortunately no. This deal is a one time offer through LivingSocial and is only available online at LivingSocial.com. You are always able to purchase tickets at the Ticket Booth or in the Garden Shop but this discount will not be available.

How long does the deal last?

The deal is only available beginning Tuesday, May 31 at 5:00 a.m. for 24 hours and while supplies last. After that, it’s gone.

Can I buy more than one deal?

Sure! Each LivingSocial deal is good for two visitors or a Family Pass and you can buy more than one during the deal period. If you want to give one as a gift, that’s fine too.

Can I bundle a bunch together for my group/school/church/senior center and get a tour?

You can come as a group but we cannot offer a tour guide for any group that uses the LivingSocial deals for admission. If you want a tour guide, we do offer a group rate of $6 per person with two weeks notice.

I’m only coming by myself, can get a second ticket to come back another day or money back?

No, each deal is only good that day. If you come by yourself, we cannot give you a second ticket or a refund for any unused tickets. So bring a friend! It’s a great way to share.

Do I have to use the 10% discount in the Garden Shop that day or can I save it for another day?

It’s such a great deal, we can only allow you to use the 10% off in the Garden Shop on the day you use your deal.

I have a discount coupon for admission (Entertainment Book, Chinook Book, etc.), can I use both it and the LivingSocial deal together?

Only offer one at a time can be used, but you can use multiple LivingSocial deals at the same time. Save your Entertainment Book or Chinook Book coupon and come back with a friend a second time. The Garden looks different each time you come.

I bought one! How long do I have to use it?

Thanks! A purchased deal is good through June 1, 2012.

I want to come down and use my deal, what’s going on at the garden?

Check out our events page and the “This Month at Lan Su” page.

More questions? Things that are confusing? We’ll be here on Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to take calls at 503.228.8131 or if we’re not available, you can call LivingSocial at 1.877.521.4191 (during normal business hours) or visit their help section.

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Essence of Tea
October 1-31

Learn more about The Essence of Tea

Groupon Portland Deal of the Day
October 29

Today, Lan Su Chinese Garden is the Groupon Portland Deal of the Day! Visit Groupon to purchase two tickets to Lan Su for only $8 (a savings of $9 and 53% off!). The tickets are a great way to visit Lan Su again or make an excellent gift for that friend or neighbor who has never been to the Garden.

Frequently asked questions about the Groupon Portland Deal of the Day at Lan Su.

Groupon

Lan Su Chinese Garden is today’s featured Portland Deal of the Day on Groupon.com.

To purchase the deal, you must visit Groupon.com and purchase it there or on through the Groupon app on your smartphone.

What’s the deal?

Lan Su is offering two admission tickets (regular price of $17) for $8. That is a savings of $9 for the pair or more than 53% off.

Who (or what) is Groupon?

Groupon features a daily deal on the best stuff to do, see, eat, and buy in a variety of cities across the U.S., Canada and Europe. Groupon negotiates huge discounts on popular local goods, services and cultural events. Then they offer the deals to thousands of subscribers in a free daily email. The deals are activated only when a minimum number of people agree to buy. So subscribers get a great deal and the business gets a ton of new customers. Win-win.

Can I get this deal at the door?

Unfortunately no. This deal is a one time offer through Groupon and is only available online at Groupon.com or through Groupon’s mobile application. You are always able to purchase tickets at the Ticket Booth or in the Garden Shop but this discount will not be available.

How long does the deal last?

The deal is only available Friday, October 29 through Sunday, October 31 and while supplies last. After that, it’s gone.

Can I buy more than one deal?

Sure! Each Groupon deal gets in two visitors and you can buy more than one during the deal period. If you want to give one as a gift, that’s fine too.

Can I bundle a bunch together for my group/school/church/senior center and get a tour?

You can come as a group but we cannot offer a tour guide for any group that uses the Groupon deals for admission. If you want a tour guide, we do offer a group rate of $6 per person with two weeks notice.

I’m only coming by myself, can get a second ticket to come back another day or money back?

No, each deal is only good that day. If you come by yourself, we cannot give you a second ticket or a refund for any unused tickets. So bring a friend! It’s a great way to share.

I have a discount coupon for admission (Entertainment Book, Chinook Book, etc.), can I use both it and the Groupon deal together?

Only offer one at a time can be used, but you can use multiple Groupon deals at the same time. Save your Entertainment Book or Chinook Book coupon and come back with a friend a second time. The Garden looks different each time you come.

Can I apply the cost of the Groupon deal to a membership?

Yes! On the day of your visit where you use the Groupon deal, show your receipt in the Garden Shop and we’ll take $8 off a membership.

I bought one! How long do I have to use it?

Thanks! A purchased deal is good through May 1, 2011.

I want to come down and use my deal, what’s going on at the garden?

Check out our events page and the “This Month at Lan Su” page.

More questions? Things that are confusing? We’ll be here on Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to take calls at 503.228.8131 or if we’re not available, you can call Groupon at 1.877.788.7858 (during normal business hours, central time) or send them an email at .

weddingcalendar

Mooncakes & Pomegranates

presented by 10th Anniversary month sponsor Yellow Mountain StoneWorks, Inc.

Mooncakes & Pomegranates

Wednesday, September 1, 2010
6:30 p.m.

An elegant evening celebrating Lan Su’s 10th Anniversary!

Experience a night in Lan Su of tantalizing tastes from some of Portland’s finest restaurants. With food from Portland’s oldest restaurant to a variety of cuisines from around the world, enjoy a showcase of flavors from the heart of Portland. The evening is a gathering and celebration of local chefs with live entertainment to accompany the delectable fares and an exquisite backdrop of Lan Su in the glistening evening.

Tickets
$50 members, $65 general
A portion of your ticket is tax-deductible

Purchase your ticket online now!

An evening with The Notables
The Notables specialize in the swinging hits of yesteryear. No ordinary swing band, these gents have honed their craft over many years as the house bank on the famous Queen of the West cruise ship, making them one of the most tightly-knit bands working the Pacific Northwest today.

Participating Restaurants

Alexis Restaurant

Alexis infuses the spirit of Greece, with its many foods, traditions, and celebrations, into its bustling Greek taverna. Every dish brims with flavor. Enjoy delicious moussake and calamari and a variety of lamb dishes with fresh homemade bread. End with dessert indulgences like baklava and bougatsa
www.alexisfoods.com/old

Boyd Coffee Company

Boyd Coffee Company has served its customers with vision, quality and personal service for more than 100 years. Boyd’s innovative spirit led them to develop a Direct Store Distribution system covering 22 states, industry-leading equipment, specialty and rare estate coffees, teas and an extensive line of food products.
www.boyds.com

Cupcake Jones

Cupcake Jones is life’s biggest little pleasure. Everything is made by hand. They make their own candied citrus, candied rose petals and fruit garnishes. They even make their own graham crackers and marshmallows! Cupcake Jones has a unique menu concept with special “daily” cupcakes, and each cupcake is filled with the most divine filling. Mmmmmm.
www.cupcakejones.net

Davis Street Tavern

Davis Street Tavern, located within the historic Nelville Bag company warehouse, seeks to refine, if not redefine, the traditional American tavern. Married with true fine dining, it is ideal for corporate gatherings, romantic dinners, and late night drinks alike. This Pacific Northwest inspired restaurant’s menu boasts strip steaks and sea scallops alongside Dungeness crab bisque and gourmet salads - something for all palates.
www.davisstreettavern.com

Huber’s

Huber’s is Portland’s oldest restaurant, and enjoying lunch, dinner and cocktails here is like stepping back in time. The house specialty is roast turkey and baked ham and the menu includes Certified Angus Beef steaks, fresh seafood and pasta. The signature cocktail is their nationally famous Spanish coffee, a flaming drink done tableside.
www.hubers.com

Jake’s Famous Crawfish

Considered one of the top ten seafood restaurants in the nation, Jake’s Famous Crawfish has been a downtown Portland landmark for 118 years. Jake’s Famous Crawfish features more than 30 varieties of fresh fish and seafood flown in daily, making a true Pacific Northwest statement using fresh Northwest products and served in a traditional and timeless presentation. The bar at Jake’s Famous Crawfish has long been a popular gathering spot with visitors and locals alike.
www.mccormickandschmicks.com

Meriwether’s

Meriwether’s is a renewal of the classic country inn with unique garden dining, warm hospitality, and remarkable food. Chef Earl Hook’s food reflects a farm-to-table approach with a Pacific Northwest menu, including fresh produce from their Skyline Farm.
www.meriwethersnw.com

Paragon Restaurant & Bar

Paragon is a lively, yet sophisticated, neighborhood restaurant and bar featuring American bistro cuisine and tempting house-made desserts and signature hand-crafted cocktails. These, along with a generous wine list, make Paragon a local favorite for lunch, dinner and late night dining.
www.paragonrestaurant.com

Papa Haydn

Papa Haydn, a Portland icon since ‘78, utilizes locally-sourced ingredients for lunch, dinner, brunch, and the city’s most popular desserts.
www.papahaydn.com

Park Kitchen

Park Kitchen expresses chef/owner, Scott Dolich’s love of cooking and respect for the integrity of local ingredients in a menu that reflects the changing seasons. With a staff that shares a common dedication and vision, Park Kitchen provides a welcoming atmosphere and a fresh, flavorful menu. For Scott, every dish that goes on the table is important in his creation of an ideal of neighborhood dining.
www.parkkitchen.com

Ping

Ping is a local neighborhood establishment for socializing, drinking and eating with friends in Chinatown of Portland. As a part of a revitalization of this classic neighborhood, we hope to be more than a destination restaurant. Ping is a gathering of people who enjoy the warm welcome of a local izakaya of Tokyo, the kopitiam of Singapore, bia hoi stands of Vietnam, coffee shops of Bangkok and the teashops of China. From the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to the metropolitan cities of East Asia, Ping is inspired by the friendliness and food of the local people.
www.pingpdx.com

Portland City Grill

Portland City Grill, with its unparalleled panoramic views from the 30th floor of the Bank Tower, is the perfect place to meet, eat, and get your bearings in Portland. In addition to lunch and dinner, it serves up happy hours twice a day and all day Sunday. Their cuisine is a delectable blend of classic, Northwest, island, and Asian influences.
www.portlandcitygrill.com

SakeOne

SakeOne not only imports fine sake from Japan, but also has established its own Kura (sake brewery) in which it crafts the finest sake made in America. From their home in Forest Grove, they brew premium Junmai Ginjo styles in a range of distinct sake profiles from a dry and crisp Tanrei to a cloudy and rich Nigori, or an undiluted Genshu. A visit to their tasting room is only a short drive from Portland.
www.sakeone.com/sakeone

Seres Restaurant

Seres serves modern Chinese cuisine made with fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients. They provide a unique dining experience while promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
www.seresrestaurant.com

Silk Vietnamese Restaurant & Bar

Located in the Pearl District on the corner of NW 10th & Glisan, Silk Vietnamese Restaurant & Bar invites you to experience Vietnamese cuisine, an integration of Vietnamese culture where the atmosphere is modern, crisp and elegant, upscale yet casual. Our food is fresh and light, savory and sweet with a complex merge of flavors, yet giving your palate a harmonious effect. It’s a place where traditional meets modern, and familiar Vietnamese dishes are dressed up to appeal. We offer bar dining to fit your mood, whether you desire our complete dinner menu, our small plates bar menu, or just socializing in the bar with one of our elaborate Asian-inspired cocktails.
www.phovanrestaurant.com

Ten 01

Ten 01 takes a modern approach to classic American flavors, producing precise dishes focused on balanced, pure, seasonal ingredients. Set in one of the greenest developments in the city, Ten 01 is a restaurant that combines contemporary design with environmentally friendly principles. The street level dining room combines the energy of the bar with the action of an open kitchen.
www.ten-01.com

The Tao of Tea

The Tao of Tea sprang from founder Veerinder Chawla’s love of the leaf, and the dream of bringing people together over a cup of some of the finest whole leaf teas available. Featuring handcrafted teas mostly sourced directly from their growers, the Tao of Tea encourages sustainable growing practices and the preservation of indigenous tea traditions.
www.taooftea.com

Wilf’s Restaurant

Wilf’s, located in Union Station, is Portland’s premier destination for fine dining and terrific jazz. Its elegant red booths and romantic atmosphere take us back to the glorious age of the supper club. And in a modern twist on the classic American menu, all of the tempting plates and signature cocktails are created from seasonal, locally sourced, organic ingredients.
www.wilfsrestaurant.com

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To use these photos, please contact Jane DeMarco, Managing Director of Lan Su Chinese Garden at 503.228.8131 ext. 1006 or .

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