The Garden of Surging Waves is located in Astoria, Oregon. The city was founded in 1811 and this garden was a gift to celebrate the city’s 200th anniversary. The Chinese were an important part of Astoria’s history. At one time, 22% of the city’s population was Chinese. In the Pacific Northwest, Chinese were instrumental in the cannery, logging, mining, and railroad construction industries.
I’m starting with a circular mosaic of three sturgeon. It was my favorite artwork there.
This is part of the Pavilion of Transition, pictured below. The fish theme is repeated in the circular lantern hanging above the mosaic. Nine salmon swim around its perimeter.
The pavilion has eight columns with dragons carved into each. The squares, circles, and even and odd numbers in this garden represent elements of Yin and Yang.
The metal sculpture below represents an incense burner from the Han Dynasty (204 BC) and symbolizes the “Children of the Mythical Dragon” lineage.
You can see the large Ling Bi Rocks (Scholar Rocks) behind this sculpture. They represent a concentration of Nature’s energy and symbolize longevity.
The bronze and steel Story Screen includes stories and teachings from everyday people. The circular Moon Gate gathers friends and families together and frames the journey ahead.
Here’s another view of it.
The stone, wood, metal, and glass elements of the Garden of Surging Waters reflect the confluence between East and West.
There are strategically placed benches and seating blocks throughout the garden, plus a couple of chess boards.
As you can see, the Garden of Surging Waves is located right in the downtown area. It was a pleasant surprise to find this peaceful and beautiful attraction.
I’ll leave you with a quote from a sign in the park:
Chinese folklore: a non-linear path trips spirits. May you always discover new paths.
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It looks beautiful and calming. 🙂
Yes, it was! Unexpected too.
Wow!
This garden is certainly a delight for tired minds, just like me.
And you've picked up such a lovely day for the visit 🙂
Yes, Hammad, it was peaceful little retreat, and it was beautiful on a nice sunny day! 🙂
Already the name - Garden of Surging Waves - made me want to look inside! A beautiful and mindful garden, I'd love to sit there contemplating. Loved the bronze and steel Story Screen, where the letters themselves are circular wonders.
Yes, Ann-Christine, I loved the name of this garden. The Story Screen and its shadows was amazing!
Great selections. Unusual. 👏
Thanks, John! Yes, it was much different from an average garden attraction. Very beautiful.
A perfect choice for the challenge Siobhan. Looks like a beautiful park and a wonderful monument to the Chinese settlers.
Thanks, Tina! I had to search a while so I was glad to have found these pictures that fit the prompt. :)
What a beautiful place! I loved the mosaic and Moon Gate, especially. Very nicely photographed, Siobhan.
Thanks, Egidio! I'd love to have either of those in my garden. 🙂
What a beautiful little park! I love all the symbolism behind the various objects and it seems a tranquil spot in the heart of the city :)
Yes, Sarah, it was beautiful and a nice addition to a scenic town on the coast!
Excellent!
Thank you, John!
You always bring us something interesting, Siobhan. I especially loved the story screen. And to think it is all in a downtown area for people to meander through is fantastic. And I do love the final quote from in the park.
Thanks, Donna! Yeah, I liked the Story Screen as well. I'm glad we found this garden when wandering around the downtown area. It's a special little place. :)
What a cool place and so beautifully captured. I'd love to visit this.
Thanks, Sofia! A small but special place.