Exploring Sydney’s secret Chinese gardens
Robyn Kennedy loves to explore and photograph Sydney and surrounds. Her blog Life Out & About has become a passion, sharing ideas for outings in and around Sydney - charming gardens, bush walks, art galleries and inspiring places to eat!
Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover a hidden oasis, the walled Chinese Garden of Friendship. Just behind the wall lies a garden bursting with beauty. Ornate pavilions, exotic plants, ponds, waterfalls and rocky outcrops. Paths twist and wind their way over little bridges and streams, while carefully composed scenes unfold as you stroll your way through the garden.
Chinese Garden – pavilions & decorative entrances with late autumn leaves. Image credit: Robyn Kennedy.
Traditional Chinese gardens are deliberately designed to reveal small intimate scenes, while capturing the beauty and harmony in nature. Therefore you need to explore all the little paths and peek into every pavilion, as through every window and doorway is a beautifully composed scene!
In China, water symbolizes communication and dreams, so why not sit quietly by the waterfall and listen to the soft sound of water flowing over the rocks, a meditative experience. Even with the weekend crowds one can find a quiet space to experience the peace and serenity of this magical place.
While relaxing at the lakeside Teahouse, willows swaying gently in the breeze and the colourful koi swimming in the water garden below, I knew I had found a hidden oasis. This is a place to return to, a calm refuge in the city.
Chinese Garden – a Gift to Sydney
Designed by Sydney’s Chinese sister city Guangzhou. The garden is representative of the philosophy and harmony of a Chinese traditional garden. Aptly named the Chinese Garden of Friendship, symbolizing the bond established between China and Australia. What a beautiful and thoughtful gift to the city of Sydney!
Officially opened in 1988 as part of Sydney’s bicentennial celebrations. The gardens complement the area’s already rich Chinese heritage and culture, with Chinatown only a 5 minute walk away.
Eat & Drink
There’s a small Teahouse inside with lovely views over the pond to the dragon wall and gardens. Serving Chinese tea and snacks it’s an easy choice for something light at the end of your visit.
For a more substantial meal you might like to wander over to Darling Harbour or Chinatown. Being a tourist area there are many choices and cuisines. The upbeat vibe contrasts well with the quiet of the gardens.
Have you ever been to Sydney’s Chinese gardens?
Hero image credit: Robyn Kennedy