How could I forget ?

Back in Portland, the day after I visited the Chinese Garden, Stacey took me to the Japanese Garden.

Where is the post about that visit ?   I was sure I'd told you all about it.

Unlike the Chinese Garden, which covers only a city-block in downtown Portland, the Japanese Garden is much larger, and is located in the lush countryside.

The main entrance.

The Flat Garden is formed from raked sand.

The Natural Garden, which contains ponds, waterfalls, streams and small bridges looks ancient and not man-made.

Strategically placed benches, encourage the visitor to sit a while.

Walk slowly here. To rush, just doesn't feel right.

The Sand and Stone Garden features the simplicity of weathered stones, rising from a bed of "sand" (white gravel) raked to suggest the sea.  This garden style is typically found in Zen monasteries.

The Poetry Stone reads:

"Here, miles from Japan, I stand as if warmed by the 

spring sunshine of home."

Now you can see why I had to rectify my omission.

How could I have forgotten to share this marvellous place with you ?