Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Botanical garden · Downtown

5

@cntraveler

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden — Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here? “Oasis” is a word often used to describe urban gardens, but step out of the downtown fray and into Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and it really does feel like you’ve entered an island of calm. Perched at the edge of Chinatown, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is modeled after the Ming Dynasty–era scholar’s gardens in Suzhou, China. It’s also regularly named among the best city gardens on the planet. The serene spot is far from a touristy knockoff, too. A collaboration between governments in Canada and China, the garden and structures were designed and built by 53 Suzhou specialists using rare trees and prized rocks shipped in from Asia—and nothing but hand tools to construct. Fun! Anything we have to be sure to check out? The garden is stunning at all times of year and the colors are in constant flux, with different plants and trees coming into bloom and falling away each season—roses, orchids, plums, peonies, magnolias, winter-flowering jasmine, and more all take their turns. Eroded by the acidic waters of a lake near Suzhou, the porous Taihu rocks are like ancient sculptures, while the meticulously pruned ginkgo and maple trees quietly nod to the Chinese-Canadian collaboration. The Jade Water Pavilion elegantly frames the painterly views, and the designs of the stone courtyards echo both the architecture and the plant life, much of it infused with Chinese symbolism. Offered several times a day, informative guided tours provide excellent insights into the garden’s history, architecture, rock formations, trees, plants and more. How easy is it to navigate, and how accessible is it for strollers and wheelchair-bound visitors? The garden is small—just a third of an acre—so you won’t wear out any walking shoes here, and there are plenty of benches where you can simply sit, breathe deeply, and soak in the tranquil views. The walkways are relatively narrow and have some curves—legend has it that this keeps ghosts at bay—but they’re still wheelchair accessible with entry through the gift shop. Wheelchairs are also available to borrow. Anything else we should know before planning a visit? The garden is small and admission is very reasonable $16 for an adult in summer, $32 for a family with up to three kids, so a visit won’t overwhelm you or your wallet. If free is more your speed, or you only have a few minutes, check out the open public side of the garden; you won’t get the up-close views of the plants, trees, building design, and famous Taihu stones, and there are no tours, but you can check out the koi—some which are decades old—and gaze into the garden from across the pond." - Jennifer Van Evra

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/vancouver/dr-sun-yat-sen-classical-chinese-garden
Alamy

578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2, Canada Get directions

vancouverchinesegarden.com
@vancouverchinesegarden

5 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

MakerLabs

Makerspace · Strathcona

MakerLabs is Vancouver’s ultimate makerspace, offering laser cutters, 3D printers, woodworking tools, and more in a creative, welcoming community.

3 Postcards

Como Taperia

Spanish restaurant · Mount Pleasant

At Como Taperia, dive into a vibrant atmosphere where expertly crafted Spanish tapas come alive with bold flavors and charming, friendly service, making for a delightful culinary getaway.

4 Postcards

Chancho Tortilleria

Mexican restaurant · Grandview-Woodland

Step into Chancho Tortillería for a vibrant counter-service experience where delicious, handmade tacos and friendly vibes come together.

0 Postcards

Cardero's Restaurant

Seafood restaurant · Downtown

With a lively marina-side setting, Cardero’s serves seafood, burgers, and global comfort eats, making it a great spot for families and sunset views.

0 Postcards

Loden Hotel

Hotel · Downtown

The Loden Hotel is a sleek boutique spot in Coal Harbour with luxe, modern rooms, an excellent French bistro, free bikes, and standout personalized service.

7 Postcards

A Bread Affair

Bakery · Fairview

A Bread Affair dishes up flaky, organic artisan breads, pastries, and hearty sandwiches in a cozy Granville Island spot perfect for carb lovers.

2 Postcards

The Lunch Lady

Vietnamese restaurant · Grandview-Woodland

Vietnamese street eats elevated: vibrant pho, crispy prawns, charred octopus, and zingy cocktails in a lively, casual East Van spot.

4 Postcards

Earnest Ice Cream | Quebec St.

Ice cream shop · Mount Pleasant

Earnest serves rich, inventive scoops and vegan delights in a vibrant, rustic-chic spot, known for generous portions and rotating seasonal flavors.

2 Postcards

Hawksworth Restaurant

Pacific Northwest restaurant (Canada) · Downtown

Hawksworth at Rosewood Hotel Georgia serves inventive Pacific Northwest fare with luxe vibes, stellar cocktails, sleek plating, and a well-curated wine list.

13 Postcards

Rosewood Hotel Georgia

Hotel · Downtown

Rosewood Hotel Georgia blends 1920s glam with modern luxury, offering elegant rooms, renowned dining, a spa, and an art-filled, buzzy downtown vibe.

10 Postcards