Portland's Japanese Garden - New Experiences Await!

A major expansion has taken place at Portland's Japanese Garden with several new areas now open just last month. What was already a wonderful place to spend the day has been taken to an even higher level. On-time and on-budget, a total of $33.5 million was spent to add new garden areas, an authentic, Japanese cafe, meeting spaces, additional parking and more. Just take a look at the new maps below to see what awaits!

Umami Cafe

One of the most exciting new features at the Japanese Garden is the Umami Cafe. Offering up traditional Japanese tea and food, this really helps visitors make a full day of it. Explore for a bit, taste for a bit, and head back out.

Olympic-level Architectural Design

Storied architect Kengo Kuma is the designer behind the expansion at the Japanese Garden. Kuma became well known, especially in Japan, for his efforts in designing the $1.5 billion National Stadium for the 2020 Olympic Games. Now his legacy continues, albeit in a much more traditional fashion. Here's a quote from Mr. Kuma regarding his design angle on the Umami Cafe, one of my (clearly) favorite spots in the park:

“The design for the café is inspired by its specific place at the crest of the hill. As with the pilgrimages to such renowned mountainside temples as Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, this structure hovers above and greets those on the approaching path. For those arriving, it is a shelter to catch one’s breath and anticipate the gardens ahead. For those finishing their journey, it is an opportunity to reflect with all senses.”

— Kengo Kuma

The beauty of these gardens is un-matched: