Winter at Lan Su Chinese Garden is one of the most loved times by volunteers and members. The sight of bright orange persimmons on bare branches, the sounds of rain dripping from roof tile edges from the covered pathways and the warmth of tea in the teahouse are all on display during these cold and sleepy months.
Docent Jan Vreeland says, "On a rainy day, the garden is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors without getting wet. Come listen to the sound of raindrops on the leaves and see the drip tiles when they're dripping. The harder it rains, the better it gets!”
Winter is also a great time to see the "bones" of the garden and all of the elements that make up a classical Chinese garden. Sunny winter days allow you to see the interplay of light and shadow on the white interior walls broken up by the bright blooms of plums. Tai hu standing rocks anchor garden beds allowing you to see their rough texture, slender shapes and intricate holes. The incredible architecture features the craftsmanship of the garden's master builders with delicate decorative carvings and unique mosaic courtyards. Poetry and calligraphy abound with poetic couplets in pavilions and over doorways.
No matter your favorite garden element, you can find it on display throughout the winter.
Traditional lantern viewings close out Chinese New Year festivities when the garden glows with hanging red lanterns and the lake reflects the light of large illuminated lantern sculptures.
239 Northwest Everett Street, Portland, Oregon 97209
Call Us: 503.228.8131
Lan Su Chinese Garden
38 NW Davis St #260, Portland, OR 97209
Members, donors and visitors help keep Lan Su healthy and growing. Lan Su is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations and memberships are tax deductible. Lan Su’s Federal Tax ID number (EIN) is 93-1296840.