This article is from Sydney WeekendNotes for Wednesday the 31st of December 2008

The Chinese Garden of Friendship at the south end of Darling Harbour is a little oasis in the middle of a bustling city, where many city workers retreat to find a moment of peace during their lunch break.

Given its beauty and location it's amazing how few people actually take the time to go and visit, often you'll only see two or three other people wandering the pathways.

The garden was set up by the local Chinese community (it's only a short walk from Chinatown) as a gift to Sydney to celebrate the 1998 Bicentenary, from our sister city of Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, China.

The garden is laid out in the classical Chinese style using the four elements of water, plants, stone, and architecture in a way which, according to the classical rules, achieves the perfect balance.

There is great article on Chinese Garden design on Wikipedia which I'd recommend you read before your visit so you can appreciate what the architects of the garden were trying to do.

The garden also has a traditional Chinese teahouse where you can further unwind, after your relaxing stroll around the garden, and get a bite to eat.

You could also visit the nearby Chinatown on Dixon St afterwards to grab some lunch or dinner and continue with the Chinese theme, or visit Paddy's Markets which is also nearby.

Entry to gardens costs $6 for adults, $3 for children and is located at the south end of Darling Harbour next to China Town and the Sydney Entertainment Centre.


Why? Visit a little oasis in the middle of Sydney.