Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland (must see)

Complete your Chinatown visit with a stop at this remarkably authentic classical Chinese garden, designed to be appreciated in any kind of weather. You'll feel like you have stepped off a boat in ancient Suzhou, the coastal Chinese city where the entire garden was designed, packed up, and exported to be reassembled here in 2001. Different "rooms" and areas are dedicated to different types of botanicals, complete with koi-filled ponds, small buildings and shaded places to sit. Everything is placed conveniently along a path so you can just walk freely and easily find each area without a map.

Why You Should Visit:
To relax by the various secluded areas of meditation and reduce the pressures of the day or week. A slow pace will open the mind and heart to peace and clarity, while at the same time teaching you a little about traditional Chinese culture.

Tip:
Don't miss the wonderful range of teas on offer, when you need some refreshment. A two-story, 50-seat teahouse in the lakeside Tower of Cosmic Reflections offers a nice contemplative spot to watch the light change over the plantings, Lake Zither, and the array of classical Chinese pavilions and walkways. Live traditional music is frequently played inside for visitors to resonate with slowly plucked-string sounds while enjoying their tea, sweets, and light snacks.