Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

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

Amid the bustle of Chinatown stands this lovely 15th-century-style garden, named for the father of modern China. Even though it was built in 1986, artisans from Suzhou constructed the entire property without nails, screws, or power tools. The price of entry includes a 45-minute guided tour, which explains how the rocks, water, plants, and architecture illustrate Taoist principles of balance and harmony. Afterward, wander among the fishponds, moon gates, gnarled pines, and graceful winding pathways, then stop for oolong tea. Regular events at the garden include yoga, concerts, and tai chi lessons, along with the Moon Festival in mid-autumn and the lavish Chinese New Year Temple Fair in winter.

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Geese protecting their eggs upon an island rock in the centre of a pond rife with koi awaiting bread crumbs or a fat fly to come within rippling sight of the surface. Bamboo and flowers hanging overhead like chandeliers to the winding trailed corridors with the occasional peak-a-boo to the gazebos and the main building that offers tours and further garden exploration. The portion that I explored and explain here was free; however, as mentioned, there is a tour explaining the history of this oasis, voted the best City Garden in North America by National Geographic.

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