Lan Su Chinese Garden

Overview

Lan Su Chinese Garden is a classical Chinese garden in Portland's Chinatown neighborhood. It is a place of contemplation and enjoyment, featuring ponds, stone pathways, and a variety of plant and animal life.

It is one of the most authentic Chinese gardens outside of China and serves as a cultural bridge between Portland and China.

Cultural Historical Relaxation

Location

Address

239 NW Everett St., Portland, Oregon

Neighborhood: Chinatown

Coordinates

45.525500, -122.678700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$12.50

Children

$8 (ages 6-17)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

3-4 hours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• flowers
• gardens

summer

hot

• extended hours
• outdoor performances

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors
• harvest moon viewing

winter

cold

• holiday lights
• winter garden beauty

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for tours
Bring ID for ticket purchases
Check weather and dress appropriately

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella hat

not allowed

large bags drones outside food

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low to moderate

• uneven paths
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $12.50

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, comfortable for uneven paths, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for tours
• official website
• 48 hours for refund
• available for tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Bike rack

On site restaurant

Teahouse

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Lan Su Chinese Garden Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket purchasing, Event calendar, Garden history and information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Teahouse

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe, Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Portland International Airport (PDX)

Distance: 15 miles (24 km)

Travel Time: 25-30 minutes

taxi

$45-55 25-30 min

public_transport

$3.50 45-50 min

rideshare

$25-35 25-30 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)

metro

$2.50 15-20 min

bus

$2.50 15-20 min

taxi

$10-15 10-15 min

rideshare

$8-12 10-15 min

bike

Free or bike rental 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, cultural significance, peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens

Historical Significance: Important cultural bridge between Portland and China, showcases traditional Chinese garden design and philosophy

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for local residents
Best food and tea at the Teahouse
Weekday visits are less crowded
Special events and festivals offer unique cultural experiences

Local Recommendations

• Try the local tea at the Teahouse
• Ask for guide John for an in-depth tour experience
• Visit the nearby Portland Art Museum
• Explore the Old Chinatown area for local history and culture

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Nǐ hǎo (你好)

thank_you Xièxiè (谢谢)

where_is Zài nǎlǐ? (在哪里?)

how_much Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱?)

beautiful Hǎokàn (好看)

ticket Pàozi (票子)

Guide Languages: English, Chinese, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance and Moon Gate

Best Time: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)

Tips: Capture the intricate details of the architecture and reflections in the ponds

Result: Stunning shots of traditional Chinese architecture and serene garden scenes

#LanSuChineseGarden #PortlandGarden #ChineseGarden #TravelPortland #GardenPhotography

Lake and Pavilions

Best Time: Early morning for calm water and soft light

Tips: Use the reflections in the lake to capture the surrounding pavilions and plants

Result: Breathtaking reflections and tranquil garden views

#GardenLake #Reflections #PeacefulGarden #WaterPhotography

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public spaces

prohibited areas private events, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography permit needed for professional shoots

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed in designated areas, restricted during peak hours

selfie sticks allowed, but be mindful of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Portland Art Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Portland Saturday Market

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Market

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Oregon Historical Society Museum

Distance: 600m

Walking: 8 min