Finding serenity, a Lotus pond and a Teahouse in a Chinese Garden in Sydney
Sydney - Australia
Chinese Garden of Friendship
Sydney - Australia
A Chinese gift of culture, heritage and architecture for Sydney, Australia
Entering the Mountain Gate of the Chinese Garden of Friendship I immediately step into a serene retreat. The main gate was a gift from the government of Guangdong with two lions guarding the entry into the pavilion.
I am torn. Should I read the detailed information of the pamphlet about this beautiful concept or should I drift through and enjoy the sensual experience of this haven? I glance at the pamphlet for a snippet of information here and there but decide I can always read it in detail later. I snap away with my little point and shoot camera to remember this garden, but I know I will never forget it.
My travels to Australia of a few years ago included exploring Sydney and its suburbs or venturing further on day trips. I even experienced the Vivid Festival. This day I roamed around Darling Harbour and explored some of its attractions.
The only giveaway that the garden is situated inside the busy tourist hub of Darling Harbour, is the towering buildings on the outside. It is of no concern to me, as I only have eyes for the striking layout of the green oasis.
Designed in 1986 by landscape architects and gardeners from Guangzhou, the garden has evolved over the years. Intricate paths weave through the garden between rocks, water and plants. Design principles and key elements of focal points and vistas still represent the five harmonious fundamental relations of ‘Wu-Xing’ between water, earth, air, wood and steel and follows the Taoist principles of 'Yin-Yang'.
The garden symbolises the bond between China and Australia and was opened as part of Sydney's Bicentennial Celebrations on the 17th January 1988.
My sense of calm continues, with a quiver of excitement as I meander on pathways through tranquil settings. Having dabbled in garden design for many years I am enchanted by the layout of ponds and waterfalls as well as exotic plants. I could only dream of creating such a unique creation.
My journey continues through gates to separate areas and on bridges over a Lotus ponds and streams. This is not a place to rush through, at least not for me. Pavilions, pagodas and other landscape features are strategically placed throughout the garden.
The Ying rocks used in the garden are from the mountains of Yingde, a district in south Guangdong. The Taihu rocks are rare weathered limestone from Lake Tai in China. Extraordinary river moulded wax rock is in the paved courtyard of Hall of Longevity. All are gifts from Guangdong.
I linger at the extraordinary Dragon Wall which is double sided. It is made of glazed terracotta from China, commissioned exclusively for the garden. Another gift from the government of Guangdong.
The brown imperial dragon represents Guangdong and the blue one New South Wales. Both reach for the pearl of wisdom or is it friendship? I found out later the pearl represents spiritual energy, wisdom, prosperity, power and immortality. The wall was manufactured with 943 pieces of Shiwan glazed ceramics and was assembled on site by potters from China.
I stop in my tracks as I catch a glimpse of someone through a moon gate. It feels like I am transported into another realm, another time. It is still the 21st century and I realize that visitors to the garden can dress in traditional Chinese costumes from the Ming and Ching dynasties. The costumes can be hired at extra cost for both adults and children.
The magic continues as I convince myself to sample traditional delicacies of tea and steamed buns at the beautiful heritage listed teahouse. An exquisite setting where I could linger constantly. The Gardens by Lotus serve a modern interpretation of Chinese high tea by day and a modern Sichuan dining experience in the evenings.
What better way to cement a friendship bond than giving the gift of a serene Chinese Garden to Sydney in Australia? I am glad I discovered it. The tranquil setting with its beautiful Lotus pond, a tea house in an elegant pavilion with magnificent architecture are worthy of a relaxing visit.
Click on image and pin to refer to later
Where is The Chinese Garden of Friendship?
The garden is situated on the corner of Day Street and Pier Street, on the southern end of Darling Harbour near Cockle Bay and Tumbalong Park.
Early in the 19th century the land was reclaimed and industrialised, including building and repair of ships. The garden is now a popular attraction for both residents and visitors of Sydney.
Map
Going to Brisbane, Queensland?
About the Author
ALMA VAN AS | ROAMING FOX
Alma is a South African travel blogger and writer. She hopes to inspire you with facts and fables about her adventures, road trips and international travel.
Find me on Social Media:
If you would like to leave a comment on my blog, you can comment as a guest without logging in, but you will not be notified of my answer.
If you would like to be notified of my reply, you must log in to subscribe. Click Subscribe via e-mail to receive an email notification of my reply or if new comments are added to that post.
This will subscribe you to the comment thread only, not my blog notifications and newsletters. I know it is quite a process, but this helps keep our websites secure and reduces spam replies.
Your email address will not be shared or displayed.
Looking for travel inspiration when you visit the land down under? Or are you wanting an insight into some of the Australian culture? Think of Australia and you think of beaches, barbies and beers, right? A relaxed lifestyle thrown in with no worries. There’s that but there is more.