The Chinese Garden - Vancouver
Just a short walk from our hotel this classical Chinese garden was incredible. The attention to detail and patience it must have taken to create is almost beyond comprehension. So many bonsai trees and a pathway of edge balanced stones meticulously aligned into intricate patterns give an indication combined with the delicate wood carving and silk embroidery it points to a genuine labour of love and is certainly worth visiting if you are in Vancouver.
Note the floor we are standing on here, edge balanced stones inlaid in concrete forming patterns within patterns and covering huge areas of the garden, it's almost a shame to see it walked on.
Though it is not the right time of the year for blooming flowers just yet there are a number of blooms set around walkways and picture windows.
The pond has some enormous koi carp which keep popping to the surface looking for any stray fodder the tourists might bring along.
There are a number of picture windows around the garden and on a blue sky day they must be stunning, even today with the low cloud whiting the sky they are impressive.
This gallery shows the extent of this incredible little oasis in the very centre of downtown Vancouver, though walking around here you would never know the city existed.
So, if you are in Vancouver and looking for a little tranquility, head down to Chinatown and visit this place.