Chinese Garden of Friendship

At the southern end of Darling Harbour, the Chinese Garden of Friendship offers a quiet change of pace from central Sydney. Winding paths pass ponds, pavilions, stonework and dense greenery, with the layout shaped by traditional Chinese landscape principles and the balancing ideas of Feng Shui. It is a considered space for a slow walk, a few photographs or simply some time away from the surrounding city activity.

The Garden was opened on 17 January 1988 for Sydney’s Bicentenary and was modelled on private gardens in China dating from the fifth century. It was created as a symbol of friendship between Sydney and Guangzhou, bringing together nature, architecture and Chinese cultural traditions. A newer Meandering Pathway of Tranquillity, unveiled in 2024, adds another route through the landscape.

There is more to do than explore the garden independently. Daily guided tours cover its history, landscape and cultural heritage, while The Emperor’s Quest invites visitors to look for the 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Fish feeding takes place at 11.30am daily, subject to cancellation in colder weather, and the programme also includes Tuesday movement and meditation classes and selected Sunday music sessions. One Dining, a Chinese teahouse-style venue inside the Garden, offers dining and event options, including lunch, high tea and functions.

The Garden suits solo visitors, couples seeking a peaceful outing and families looking for an activity with a cultural focus. It also caters for school visits, heritage and gardening groups, weddings, photography and private functions. Adult admission is $12, with child, concession and family tickets also available; children under five enter free. The lower garden’s paths and pavilions are accessible to wheelchairs, buggies and prams, although steps and rocky paths make the upper section more difficult. It is open daily from 10am to 5pm, except Christmas Day and Good Friday.