Chinese and Japanese Garden in Singapore
Wednesday, June 27, 2012 Singapore 2 Comments

Chinese and Japanese Garden in Singapore

One of the most interesting things that Singapore has done for its country is to really live by the “mixed culture” mantra. They have different ethnic groups - Shanghainese, Japanese, Sikhs, Armenians, Arabs Malays, Indians, and expat minorities. And in almost everything you will see, taste, and experience, there is no one solid culture to follow. Everything is about mix and collaboration. Everything is much welcomed and valued. A creative example of this is the Chinese and Japanese Garden. It’s located somewhere Jurong area, where every green flora and fauna thrives so richly. Just alight the Chinese Garden MRT Station, and let the giant trees and charming pathway lead you to the gardens.

Chinese meets Japanese - two of the most stand out cultures across Asia all placed in one area. Good choice, indeed. When we talk about these cultures, first thing that would come to mind are elaborate designs and grandeur in general. This holds true in every aspect related to Chinese or Japanese culture. This scenic place is another testament to that. Even in the midst of serenity or cultural diversity found in Singapore, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens flourish with much grandeur and elaborateness compared to any other garden in Singapore.

The entrance area is designed with cloudy-grained marble stone lions similar to that of China. Then once inside, we can get lost in time and space as we learn, appreciate, and wander from buildings, to pagodas, to pavilions, plateaus, gardens, and nature.

There are statues of famous Chinese people, mini gardens, wide reaching walk-ways, varied bamboo trees, and a museum for revered animals in Chinese and Japanese culture (read: turtles). The authenticity of each detail in this garden is incredible. Add the interesting fact that when we look around, all we see are mostly Indians, Malays, Singaporeans, and expat tourists and minorities - it couldn’t get more diverse-friendly and multi-cultured than this.

The best highlight would have to be the ‘Pai Hung Ch’iao’ Bridge, which ties the two grand gardens. It follows the style of the 17-Arch Bridge at the Summer Palace of China, superb and majestic. It gives people a great opportunity for people to appreciate the sunrise and sunset, swiftly shifting from Chinese to Japanese setting at one go.

The Chinese and Japanese Garden is a breath of fresh air for people who appreciate a different kind of cultural welcome, one that is peaceful, artistic, impressive, and reassuring.