Chinese Garden of Friendship
An oriental oasis in the heart of the city, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is the perfect place to chillax and escape the gruelling weekday grind
By Lanai Vasek
A mesh of waterfalls, weeping willows and blossoms make this lily pad oasis the best place to visit when you want to reflect or just relish in the tranquillity of Chinese style.
Officially opened in 1988, this one-hectare garden was initially commissioned by the Guangdong Landscape Bureau in Sydney's sister city Guangzhou (to reflect the bond between the two cities), and incorporates the architectural principles of the Taoist philosophy of yin (calmness) and yang (activity).
Featuring calligraphy, carvings and sculpture, alongside dragons and other mythological creatures, you'll be transported from Sydney's city of sin into a world of tradition and calmess on simply walking through the welcoming red front gates. Even on a beautiful, sunny weekend when it's busy, the garden offers a reflreshing change from exhaust fumes and traffic.
Dotted with hidden treasures, including an ancient cyad (fossil plant) and the red silk cotton tree (a floral symbol of Guangdong), the highlight is the Lake of Brightness, which reflects the entire park and is full of chubby carp.
If you're feeling adventurous (or glamorous) you can even channel days gone by, dressing in traditional Chinese prince or princess gear, playing around in your very own Chinese palace for the day.
Not just for expats or snap happy tourists, the Chinese Garden offers oodles of zen - the perfect environment to sip your tea, suck in the peace and quiet and be cocooned from the crazy city around you.
Best for... Stressed out Sydneysiders, green thumbs
Worst for.. Nature haters, urban angels and those too busy to stop and smell the green tea
Chinese Gardens Corner Pier & Harbour Sts, Darling Harbour 2000. (02 9240 8888) Mon-Sun 9.30am-5.00pm. Adults $6; child & concs $3; family $15.