Lan Su Chinese Garden is one of Portland's greatest treasures. Built by Chinese artisans from our sister city Suzhou (home of China's famous ancient gardens), it's the most authentic Chinese garden outside of China. Much more than just a beautiful garden, Lan Su is a creative wonder -- a powerfully inspiring experience based on a 2,000-year-old Chinese tradition that melds art, architecture, design and nature in perfect harmony.
Once inside the garden's walls, you'll feel as if you've traveled through time to another era in a faraway world. Lan Su is a window into Chinese culture, history and way of thinking. Ever changing, Lan Su always has something new to offer - by the minute, by the hour, and with the seasons. Enter the wonderland.
Lan Su is modeled after the Ming Dynasty gardens of China, which were designed as spiritual utopias: places where individuals could escape the problems of everyday life and discover their true selves by connecting with nature. Like those ancient gardens, Lan Su is a peaceful and soothing place - a respite from city life that is designed to inspire, facilitate personal growth, and spark creativity.
Lan Su is a rare treasure that offers an extraordinary glimpse into Chinese culture. Visitors of all ages can explore the garden, its history and meanings through a wide variety of fun and enriching activities, including: guided and self-guided tours, mahjong, tai chi, calligraphy, musical performances, art shows, tea tastings, and an ongoing lecture series featuring everything from Chinese medicine and acupuncture to healthy cooking and eating.