Seattle Chinese Garden Society

Mission

NATURE • CULTURE • COMMUNITY -- The Seattle Chinese Garden engages visitors in the beauty of nature interwoven with cultural tradition. This serene "world apart" inspires exploration, creativity, and revitalization. A community gem, it draws people of all ages and backgrounds for enjoyable and educational programs. As a gateway to traditional and contemporary Chinese culture, the Garden highlights and enhances our region's long-standing, diverse, and vital ties to China.

Description

The Seattle Chinese Garden is on five secluded acres at the north end of the South Seattle College campus in West Seattle. Bamboo groves, trees and shrubs native to China, and a small pond enhance the tranquility. A large courtyard is a venue for festivals and events. An exceptional horticultural feature is the Luoyang Tree Peony Display Garden, with more than 400 plants of about 30 varieties. It is one of the largest public tree peony gardens on the West Coast and focus of an annual spring festival. A camellia garden with several varieties including tea tree camellia will be planted this spring. Year-round programs and activities appealing to a wide range of interests include tea programs and ceremonies, photography workshops, horticulture activities, martial arts programs, and presentations on China's culture, environment, and history. We also offer docent-led tours for community organizations and family and friend groups.

The vision for the Garden's full development includes a tea house on a lotus pond, a four-story "Floating Clouds" pavilion with views of the Cascades and Olympics, a traditional scholar's studio, a large gathering together hall for events, and small open-air pavilions overlooking a rushing stream and lake. With engagement and support from many friends we can expand our service to the community and become one of the most beautiful and outstanding Chinese gardens in North America -- and the only Sichuan style garden outside China. The Garden honors our 36-year sister city partnership with the Municipality of Chongqing, our sister state relationship with Sichuan Province, and our region's extensive ties throughout China and the Pacific Rim.

Adjacent to the Garden is the South Seattle College Arboretum, a 5-acre horticultural treasure. Both are open daily (year-round) from dawn to dusk, at no charge. Come for a walk with family or friends. Children love the Chinese Garden and enjoy watching the goldfish in the courtyard pool and checking out the big "Dragon Seeker" bronze carp sculpture. Visitors are welcome to bring dogs on leash.

Recognition

THANK YOU to Seattle Chinese Garden board members and friends who have generously pledged matching funds to boost the impact of GiveBIG donations.