A beautiful garden in the northwest.

Where Can One Find Serenity to Calm Frazzled Nerves in Portland, Oregon?

The Portland Japanese Garden tucked into forested hills overlooks the city. It is a tranquil oasis encompassing 12 acres with a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. A visitor can wander amidst eight separate garden styles. Enjoy an authentic meal in a delightful tea house enveloped by nature.

I used to wander the grounds whenever I needed to immerse myself in an artistic natural setting. It was a great place to clear my head and forget about worldly concerns. The harmonious flowers, shrubs and trees never failed to imbue me with serenity and peace. It is a spiritual garden that reminds me of the Creator.

It opened to the public in 1967, as a healing bridge to the Japanese people after WWII. It honors the Japanese tradition of creating harmonious gardens that connect with nature. The sanctuary promotes lasting peace through cultural exchange.

The former ambassador of Japan, His Excellency Nobuo Matsunaga, describes it best. “This is the most beautiful & authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.”

Walk natural paths that meander past flowering shrubs and plants. The flora is typical of northwest habitat. A visit is never the same. There is something new to experience with each changing season. I love the feeling of Japanese gardens. The grounds and trails are pleasing to the eye. It doesn’t have that manmade formal garden approach of Europe.

Bubbling streams, waterfalls, and ponds connect the separate gardens The sound of water is like an active meditation. Koi fish swim in a languid, lazy manner, mesmerizing you with color and subtle movements. Benches placed in perfect spots invite one to rest and reflect on the natural beauty before you.

If only humanity could learn to live like the harmonious elements of a Japanese garden. Then there would be no wars.

Approximately 30,000 Japanese-Americans live in the Portland area. The first Japanese farmers came here to seek better wages and employment. They lay railroads, worked in canneries, and farmed. They built restaurants and shops. Others moved to the Hood River Valley to work in strawberry fields. There is a large Japanese-American community near the Willamette River.

The Portland Japanese Garden serves as a bridge. It links cultural understanding with nature’s peace. I no longer live in Oregon. I have two sons in love with the state who continue to reside there. But I have fond memories of the comfort and serenity I found in that Garden.

If you ever visit Oregon, you should not bypass that beautiful authentic garden.

This article is in response to a historical garden prompt by Dr. Preeti Singh.

I recommend reading two articles that spoke to me:

Lady Dr. Gabriella Korosi writes about waking up with the sun & its effect on her morning, even while driving to work. She has included pictures & a video in praise of the sun which is a delight.

https://www.medium.com/dancing-elephants-press/tribute-to-nature-52c15b9be5ea?

William J Spirdione writes about the ability to see a rainbow anywhere, even if created by the flow of a garden hose. He includes some great pictures.

https://www.medium.com/reciprocall/there-is-always-a-rainbow-somewhere-dbeb83590334?