Human Nature: The Japanese Garden of Portland, Oregon

by Bruce Taylor Hamilton

A guide and history to one of America’s great gardens. It details, in an informing and readable style, the story of Portland’s Japanese Garden – how it came to be what it is today. Contains 150 photographs and illustrations – most in color – along with a map of, and text sections describing, the five main gardens. For visitors to the Garden, this volume will remain a treasured memento. For those who have yet to avail themselves of the pleasures of this sublime place, this book will give inspiration to visit one of the world’s most beautiful gardens.

169 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1996

Reviews

[Elizabeth Cowan]

I found this in the lovely little library at the Portland Japanese Gardens itself, and it proved a great accompaniment to the visit. It was interesting to read about the development of the gardens and to discover where the trees and elements were transferred from

[Tri]

I was delighted when I found this book, with its sun bleached cover and water stained pages, in a little library on a walk. The Japanese Garden is a place I’ve visited countless times, with family, and on field trips, and has a very fond place in my heart.

I didn’t expect to learn so much! So many plants and building materials in the garden are rescued and recycled. And even after growing up my whole life in Portland, I had no idea our city bird is the Great Blue Heron!

Although nearly 30 years old now, and outdated after the recent entry square renovations, this book was lovely and well worth the read.

[Had Walmer]

This books walks me gently through Portland Japanese Garden,
deep knowledge of this place!