EXPERIENCE THE GARDEN

A Day at the Garden

Born out of a hope that the experience of peace can contribute to a long lasting peace. Born out of a belief in the power of cultural exchange. Born out of a belief in the excellence of craft. Portland Japanese Garden is a place to let go of worldly thoughts and see oneself as a small but integral part of the universe.

EXPERIENCE THE GARDEN

The Garden is a living “classroom” that offers tremendous opportunities for experiential learning to all who enter its gates. The lessons of Portland Japanese Garden are many and varied; not only does it speak about the way trees grow and how moss forms on stone, but also about the lives and culture of the people who designed and nurtured this enduring art form.

CULTURAL VILLAGE

Photo by Jeremy Bitterman

Once you’ve reached the top of the hill, you will enter the Cultural Village designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The Cultural Village provides a place where visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Japanese arts through seasonal activities, performances, and demonstrations in the Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation Courtyard.

Stop into our Concierge Office if you would like more information about Garden tours, events, or any other questions you might have. The Concierge can also help you purchase a Garden membership. The price of your admission ticket can be applied directly toward your new membership.

Suggested time: 20 minutes

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN JAPANESE CULTURE

A demonstration of Chado, the Way of Tea. / Photo by Jonathan Ley

While you’re in the Cultural Village, visit the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center where you may encounter a variety of ever-changing cultural demonstrations in the Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with the soft sounds of koto (Japanese harp) or shakuhachi flute whispering through the Garden, a demonstration on the exquisite yukata (Japanese kimono), learn about chado (the Way of Tea) during a tea demonstration, or discover the delicate beauty of ikebana (the art of flower arranging.)

Suggested time: 30-45 minutes

VIEW AN EXHIBITION

Visitors enjoy the exhibition, Hanakago: The Art of Bamboo and Flowers in the Pavilion Gallery / Photo by Meg Nanna

As a work of art in its own right, Portland Japanese Garden is also a natural vehicle through which to explore Japanese art and design. The series of Art Exhibitions explore ideas and aesthetics integral to the fabric of life in Japan. By looking outside Western notions of fine art vs craft, the work chosen for exhibition aims instead to define the spirit of this complex culture and to reflect, whenever possible, the beauty of nature and the Garden itself.

Our Pavilion gallery, located in the Flat Garden, features 3-4 exhibitions per year. This space is complemented by the Tanabe gallery, located in the Learning Center of the Cultural Village, which features a changing series of exhibitions throughout the year.

Suggested time: 30 minutes

VIEW UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS

GO ON A TOUR

Public tours are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the rich history and design of the Garden. Public tours with the Garden’s well trained and knowledgeable volunteer guides are complimentary with admission or membership. 

Stroll around, slow down, and let your senses guide you into another world.

Suggested time: One hour

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ENJOY TEA AT THE UMAMI CAFÉ

Photo by Aaron Lee

The Umami Café provides a place for you to relax and refresh while at the Garden. Here, you will experience the pairing of world class Japanese tea with traditional gracious, attentive service, and delicious edible delights.

Suggested time: 30-60 minutes

VIEW MENU OR MAKE A RESERVATION

BRING HOME A MEMORY FROM THE GARDEN

Photo by Jonathan Ley

Looking to continue your exploration of Japanese garden arts and culture at home? The Garden Gift Shop, located in the Cultural Village, offers a unique mix of hand-selected items from Japan, including several items available no where else in the United States. Browse our meaningful and unique merchandise and take a piece of Portland Japanese Garden home.

Suggested time: 15-3o minutes

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