Drink in the Green

Today I went to the Lan Su Garden. Located in Old Town, Portland, it is considered the most authentic Chinese garden outside of China. The spatial arrangement, with many paths, doorways and windows, creates a world within a world — a tranquil realm within a city block. The garden is imbued with symbolism and places for contemplation. The interplay of yin and yang forces creates dynamic flow and represents nature's harmony.

Intricately formed Lake Tai Rocks, like the one shown here, are formed underwater by the flow of currents. In the garden they represent mountains.

Behind some foliage, this little orchid was in bloom.

Look! Baby bananas!

In the Chinese garden living sculptures of tiny trees and rock arrangements are called penjing.

Bat shaped rain tiles are embellished by five bat forms representing long life, good fortune, good health, a love of virtue, and a painless passing. The Chinese word for bat has a double meaning—the word sound is the same as the sound for happiness.