In Darling Harbour, behind a concealed wall, exists an authentic Chinese garden, that can be visited for a small fee. Inside you will wander over little bridges, walk through archways and be inspired by the carefully maintained shrubs, bonsais and Chinese-style decorations. The location is near Sydney's China Town, and continues the city's expression of culturally diverse attractions.
Sydney has a rich
history with Chinese immigrants and cultural integration, and this garden allows city-dwellers an escape into a small but tranquil space, inspired by traditional Chinese culture and spirituality. As soon as you enter through the arches, you will feel calm, and despite being able to see tall high-rise buildings towering over the walls above, the Chinese garden makes you feel like you have escaped into a world of your own.
The Chinese Garden of Friendship offers an opportunity to dress up in traditional Chinese garments and have your photo professionally taken. You can purchase souvenirs and also take a break in the tea house located inside. Enjoy learning about Chinese plants and growing practises and the many beliefs that surround the specifications and design of the garden.
The Chinese Garden of Friendship was designed by Sydney's Chinese sister city, Guangzhou, and it was opened as part of Australia's bicentennial celebrations in 1988. The site is now a major tourist attraction, that adds to the already eclectic and tourist focused Darling Harbour areas. If you walk through Darling Harbour at any time of year, you are sure to find other cultural celebrations, events, markets and public attractions. You could easily spend a whole day in the area, and if you do, be sure to add Sydney's Chinese Garden of Friendship to your to-do list.
