About Our Organization

The Garden

     Nestled in the scenic west hills of Portland, Oregon, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty which has been proclaimed one the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. The Garden was conceived in the early 1960s by a group of Portland citizens interested in promoting a more intimate relationship between the peoples of Japan and our city and state.

     At the heart of a Japanese garden is harmony with nature. Through the careful use of plants, stones, and water, areas of serene and quiet beauty emerge. These peaceful spots lend themselves to meditation, contemplation, and a sense of place.

     Our 5.5 acre Garden is composed of five separate garden styles: a Strolling Pond Garden, a Tea Garden, a Natural Garden, a Flat Garden, and a Sand & Stone Garden. The Garden includes an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, intimate walkways, and an unsurpassed view of Mt. Hood.

Our Organization

     The Japanese Garden Society of Oregon is a private, not-for-profit organization funded entirely by donations, membership, memorials, grants, and gate admissions. It was formed in the early 1960s by Portland citizens interested in promoting a more intimate relationship between the peoples of Japan and our city and state. In 1958, Portland became a sister city to Sapporo, Japan. This created a broad interest in Japanese culture. Soon after, several business leaders and Mayor Terry Shrunk decided it would be wonderful for Portland to have a traditional Japanese garden.

Our Mission

     The purpose of the Japanese Garden Society of Oregon is to create, maintain, improve, and administer an authentic, world-class Japanese garden in the city of Portland and to offer compatible educational, cultural, artistic, horticultural, environmental, and charitable activities.