Chinese Garden of Friendship
The Chinese Garden of Friendship in Darling Harbour has been a tranquil city retreat since it opened in 1988.
Designed by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners, it is said to have been modelled on the classic private gardens of the Ming Dynasty.
The garden was designed as a symbol of friendship between Australia and China, or more specifically, between Sydney and Guangzhou in the province of Guangdong. The relationship is explained in detail in one of the many pavilions onsite and reflected in the companion planting of species native to each city.
The garden design incorporates the principles of Feng Shui to promote the flow of qi (energy). Everything has been carefully chosen to achieve a balance between the five elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood, and the result is a nurturing whole.
Along the winding pathways you’ll pass koi-filled lakes and cascading waterfalls, birds, lizards and butterflies. Native and exotic plants have been chosen to create year round colour and large, curiously shaped stones provide form and sculpture.
The many decorative pavilions add striking visual interest as well as shade and vantage points through which to view the surrounds.
The garden is tucked away at the southern end of Darling Harbour, close to Chinatown. It is about a ten minute walk from Central or Town Hall. Open 10-5 daily. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for children.
