Many critics, travelers and locals agree that of all of Portland's parks (and they are numerous), this is perhaps the best. The 458-acre (185-hetare) swath is home to such notable spots as the Portland Japanese Garden (pictured here) the International Rose Test Garden, the World Forestry Center, Hoyt Arboretum, and several memorials dedicated to pivotal points in Oregon's history. The 12-acre, suitably Zenlike Japanese Garden is especially worthy of a 12-acre visit. It´s subdivided into eight separate gardens which represent different styles of traditional Japanese gardening techniques, though all feature essential elements like stone, water and plants which derive from influences of Shintoism, Buddhism, and Taoism, creating a unique, serene environment where visitors feel they are becoming a part of nature. The garden also features the Kashintei Tea House, where visitors can see demonstrations of a traditional tea ceremony, and a cultural village where Ikebana, bonsai care and Japanese music classes take place. If you're visiting in late March or early April, don't miss the chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Unlike other gardens within Washington Park, there is an admission fee. Admission costs $21.95 for adults, $15.95 for youths ages 6 to 17 and is free for kids ages 5 and younger.
The park is located in the city´s southwest, between West Burnside Street and U.S. Highway 26. You can pay to park (for $2 an hour) or take advantage of several public transit options, which may be your best bet as parking space is limited. TriMet's Blue and Red MAX Light Rail lines serve the Washington Park MAX station. The park offers a year-round free shuttle that stops at all of the park's major attractions. If you're coming to the park via light rail or bus, you can catch the shuttle on the plaza level of the Washington Park station.
Read more in Tripatini contributor Lowest Flight Fares´ post 7 of the Best Things to See and Do in Portland, Oregon.
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