Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is located in Vancouver’s Chinatown. Built in 1986, it is the first garden outside of China built in the style of Suzhou gardens. Named in honour of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, the Father of Modern China, the garden aims to build a bridge for cultural exchange between China and the West, and to promote Chinese culture in Vancouver. It has become an important part of the local community's cultural life.

The idea to build the garden was originally initiated by a group of people passionate about Chinese culture and art. Later, with the support of donations from Canada’s three levels of government, then-Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Dr. David Lam, the Government of China, and various benefactors, specialists were sent from China to Vancouver to construct the garden over the course of a year. The four Chinese characters “中山公园” (Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden) on the garden’s plaque were handwritten by Soong Ching-ling, Vice Chairperson of the People’s Republic of China. Many features in the garden were brought from China, including uniquely shaped Taihu rocks, various types of wood used in the construction, as well as plants such as plum blossoms, bamboo, and trees. The Hua Feng Tang (Hall of Chinese Maple) is a reception hall, and in front of its entrance are planted a ginkgo tree from China and a maple tree representing Canada, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two countries.

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden captures the essence of a traditional Chinese classical garden, with its rich charm hidden among pavilions, towers, the Three Friends of Winter (pine, bamboo, and plum), and ponds and streams. It offers overseas Chinese a wonderful and indescribable sense of experiencing the beauty of Suzhou while abroad.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Reason to visit: The world’s first classical Suzhou-style garden built outside of China

Continent: North America

Country/Region: Canada

Province/State: British Columbia

City: Vancouver