Unveiling the Veil: Hidden Japanese Gardens of Oregon
There’s something enchanting about Oregon’s landscape. Between its lush rainforests and mountains, the horizon could well be stolen from a mystic’s watercolor painting. Now, hidden within these rolling natural landscapes, are gems of cultural connectivity – just as beautiful and potentially just as mysterious. These are the Japanese Gardens of Oregon!
1. Portland Japanese Garden
Considered the finest Japanese Garden outside of Japan itself, the Portland Japanese Garden is situated in Washington Park. With five sub-gardens, including the Natural Garden saved for last, it’s a magical journey. Come in the fall to capture the breathtaking change of leaves without the summer crowds.2. The Gresham Japanese Garden
An often overlooked spiritual respite amidst the urban sprawl, the Gresham Japanese Garden, or “Tsuru Island”, is nestled in the heart of Main City Park. It was restored by local volunteers, a testament to Oregon’s strong sense of community. Free to enter, it’s a great place for quiet reflection.
3. Eugene Taiko in Alton Baker Park
Venture down to Eugene to experience not only a garden but a performance of Japanese drumming, or Taiko, at Alton Baker Park. The arresting collision of rhythm and tranquility marks an unforgettable experience.4. UO Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
The University of Oregon’s on-campus museum hosts an indoor Japanese Garden, carefully cultivated to provide art students a relaxing corner amidst their busy schedules. Don’t miss the traditional tea ceremonies held there – they offer a distinctive cultural flavor.5. Heirloom Roses Tea Garden
Located in St. Paul, Heirloom Roses houses an impressive collection of rare roses. Don’t let the name fool you though, there’s a carefully curated Japanese Tea Garden tucked away, a tranquil space where the fragrant blooms paint a canvas beautiful to behold.6. Shishi Odoshi Garden at Southern Oregon University
Mosey over to Ashland’s Southern Oregon University to discover the hidden Shishi Odoshi garden in the ScienceWorks Museum. If you’re lucky, you may catch the ScienceWorks team teaching about the physics of the Shishi Odoshi water feature.7. Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center
Tucked away in Portland, the garden at the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center offers historical insight into the life of Japanese immigrants in Oregon. Besides enjoying the garden and museum, they offer community events highlighting Japanese culture.8. Mt Tabor’s Reservoirs
One of Portland’s lesser-known jewels, the lower reservoir at Mount Tabor Park mirrors a Japanese Zen Garden. Enveloped in peace, you’ll find locals and their pups enjoying the park, a stark contrast to Portland’s vibrant city life just a few blocks away.9. Mizumoto Stroll Garden
Venture to Springfield to uncover Mizumoto Stroll Garden, a tranquil spot that emerges like an oasis in the Willamalane Park. The yearly Floating Lantern Ceremony paints a spectacular display on the park’s waters.10. Himeji Gardens in the Oregon Zoo
Located within the Oregon Zoo in Portland, the Himeji Gardens displays fauna native to Japan. It’s a remarkable, wildlife-rich take on traditional Japanese Gardens. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the Zoo’s famous Red Pandas while there.Now, journey forth fellow Oregonians, into the serene beauty of these hidden Japanese Gardens. These gardens bridge cultures and continents, telling stories that enrich our understanding of the world. Their calm beauty reminds us to pause and marvel at nature’s splendor, a sentiment we all share in the heart of Oregon. Let’s treasure and protect these wondrous spaces for the generations to come.