• The Scholar’s Courtyard and Study—in a traditional Ming scholar’s residence, this was where scholars read, composed poetry, studied music, and painted.

  • Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden features characteristics found in the traditional private spaces of a Ming scholar’s residence.

     

  • At the Jade Water Pavilion there are two latticed screen gates known as Heaven (circular) and Earth (square), illustrating the Daoist yin and yang principles found throughout the Garden.

  • The zigzag colonnade and covered walkways are designed to slow your steps and ensure the pathway is hidden from sight.

  • The China Maple Hall was built without nails, screws, or glue, using Ming Dynasty building techniques.

  • The China Maple Hall is a formal reception hall. Traditionally, this is where scholars would receive their guests.

  • Adjacent to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park. They include both native Chinese and local plants, reinforcing one of the Garden’s chief mandates to bridge both cultures.

  • Celebrate the Year of the Horse by wearing bright red clothing (considered a lucky colour) during celebrations at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden on Sunday, February 2nd.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Zen in the city.

Usher in the Year of the Ram at one of Vancouver’s cultural jewels. Declared the “World’s Top City Garden” by National Geographic in 2012, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and adjacent Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park is truly a place of urban zen. The Garden, which was modelled after the classical gardens of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is the first full-sized classical garden constructed outside of China. Fifty-two master craftsmen from Suzhou, China worked with a team of Canadian counterparts to complete this landscape masterpiece within a year; it officially opened on April 26, 1986.

The design of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden is based on the harmony of four main elements: rock, water, plants, and architecture. This remarkable sanctuary, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, enchants with its winding paths, covered walkways, and beautiful vistas. In Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park, find peace and tranquility in unique rock forms, the lily-covered pond, and lush plants.

Photos by Joshua McVeity.

Categories:

Tags:

Post Date:

January 28, 2014

Updated:

February 19, 2015