Chinese Garden of Friendship

Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Chinese Garden of Friendship is nestled at the south end of Darling harbour and a short walk from Chinatown. Entering the garden is like walking backwards in time into the quiet solitude of ancient Chinese architecture and it's relationship with nature. The garden combines the elements of water, plants, stone and architecture. Chinese garden of friendship

Running water, towering willow trees, cool lagoons with lotus plants and large colourful fish all make this an idyllic spot to read a book or recharge your batteries. It really is something special. The garden features waterfalls, lakes, pavilions, sculptures and local wildlife such as the water dragon, koi carp and several species of birds. Chinese garden of friendship

History Of Chinese Garden of Friendship 

The Chinese Garden of Friendship was built as a beautiful symbol of friendship between Sydney and Guangzhuo in China, to mark Australia’s bicentenary in 1988. Chinese garden of friendship

The garden was designed and built by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners following the Taoist principles of 'Yin-Yang' and the five opposite elements—earth, fire, water, metal and wood. These principles also stress the importance of Qi, the central force of life and energy. Chinese garden of friendship

Yin-Yang plays such a vital role that just one missing element would disrupt the garden's harmony and balance. However when combined perfectly, the five elements form a fluid and nurturing environment. Everything you encounter in the garden has been hand-picked and meticulously placed to capture the five elements and the energy of Qi. Chinese garden of friendship

Unlike western-style gardens, there are no planted flowerbeds or manicured lawns. Instead, wild aspects of nature are recreated in landscapes that feature waterfalls, mountains, lakes and forests.

The art of Chinese Garden design began in imperial parks during the Shang dynasty 3,000 years ago. Later they flourished on a smaller scale in the private gardens of China's rich and powerful. Darling Harbour’s Chinese Garden of Friendship is a small-scale version of a typical private garden from this era. Chinese garden of friendship

Opening hours

Share the secret of the Chinese Garden every day of the year between 9.30am and 5pm (5.30pm during daylight saving) except Good Friday and Christmas Day. Chinese garden of friendship

Admission

Adult: $6

Child: $3 (under 12 years)

Family: $15 (two adults and two children)

Concession: $3(Australian pensioners and students only) 

Senior: $4.50 (Australian seniors only)

Annual pass (available at the Chinese Garden ticket office, conditions apply)

Adult: $50

Family: $125 (two adults and two children)

Source: www.sydney.com and www.darlingharbour.com