I have been patiently waiting for fall at the Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon. Every day, I visited their Fall Color Status Update website. In mid-October, the site indicated good leaf color in their plantings. Off we went!
A brilliant rainbow of colors bordered the Flat Garden. The green Circle and Gourd Islands in the sea of white gravel represent enlightenment and happiness.
This nearby path is bordered by more subtle colors.
The Garden limits the number of visitors, but they crowded around this maple tree with its bright red leaves.
Read more: Fall at the Japanese Garden in Portland: LAPC & FOTD
The structure of the branches on laceleaf maples is just as impressive as the color of the leaves.
There are water features throughout the garden. This simple fountain is elegant in its design.
The reflections cast by fall leaves in the ponds are stunning.
The gardens are so calm and peaceful. This photo shows a view of Heavenly Falls – a fitting name.
The Garden includes layers of varying structure and color.
Some of the yellow-colored leaves you might see are on gingko trees – a personal favorite of mine. Their fan-shaped leaves fluttered in the breeze.
Visiting the Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden is located in Washington Park, west of downtown. The 12-acre garden includes eight separate garden styles. Purchase tickets ahead online or at the entrance gate. Be aware that parking is limited. There is a short uphill path to the garden. Shuttles are available upon request. The Cultural Village includes a gift shop, café, arts learning center, and concierge.
When His Excellency Nobuo Matsunaga, the former Ambassador of Japan to the United States, visited Portland Japanese Garden, he proclaimed it to be ‘the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.’
Portland Japanese Garden Visitor Guide
The brochure notes they hope visitors experience “a sense of peace, tranquility, and a deep, personal connection to nature.” I certainly did!
Though you can visit throughout the year, fall at the Japanese Garden is especially beautiful. In Japan, the times of seasonal change are revered for their impermanence. I was glad to witness the transition with my own eyes.
Beautiful colors
Yes, they were, Kristie!
Beautiful autumn colors!
Gorgeous
It sure was!
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The autumn hues are stunning!
Yes, they were. Sandy! 🙂
Terrific photos of a beautiful place! You’re right, the branches of the maples are as stunning as their red leaves. No wonder people stood around it, gazing.
Thanks, Becky! I loved those twisted branches.
Stunning shots! I love Japanese gardens.
Art
Thanks, Art. It was beautiful!
What a beautiful garden! I am fascinated by Japanese gardens and this looks like a great example 🙂
Yes, this one was well-designed and beautiful, Sarah!
Wow, taking my breath away… The maple trees are glorious! Your beautiful photos reminded me our visit to this special Japanese garden. What a lovely day! 🙂
Thanks, Amy! We were lucky to be there between rain storms.
We can use more rain here.
On my list for next fall. Thanks for the reminder!
You’re welcome, Alanna! Check their website for fall colors.
Wow. Simply WOW. (!)
Yes, John, it was definitely a “wow” kind of place.! 🙂
Beautiful colors. When I was there, it wasn’t Fall, but the garden was lovely. Wonderful post.
Thanks, Anne! I’d like to check it out in the spring, too.
Oh my Siobhan – what a glorious place! And the fact that they post the status of the autumn colors is such a great idea. The images are beautiful as are the specimen. I especially loved the maple, which was my dad’s favorite and always reminds me of him so special thanks for that one.
Yes, it truly is glorious, Tina! Glad my photos of maples brought back some good memories for you. 🙂🍁
This place looks amazing and is the second post I’ve seen about it in the past couple of days. Can’t wait to make my way there. 🙂
Yes, it’s beautiful! It will be a relatively short drive away from your new home. 😀
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