#VirtuallyVancouver – Wellness at Home with Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

April 30, 2020

3 min read

Traditional Asian garden pavilion on rocky hill surrounded by green trees and plants under cloudy sky

Situated in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown neighbourhood, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is an oasis of tranquility, reflection, and culture amid the bustle of urban life. While the garden may be closed, we can now access a moment of pause at home with virtual meditation, yoga, and art talks.

Modeled after the Ming Dynasty scholars’ gardens in the city of Suzhou, it became the first authentic full-scale Chinese garden built outside of China upon its completion in April 1986. Fifty-three master artisans from Suzhou and a team of local architects spent just over a year constructing the garden, employing techniques nearly identical to those used centuries ago in Suzhou. Building materials, including hand-fired roof tiles, carved woodwork, lattice windows, and prized limestone rocks from Lake Tai, arrived from China in over 950 wooden crates. Meanwhile, plants were sourced locally, reinforcing the cross-cultural character of the garden and its conception.

The garden’s name is also symbolic of this meeting of cultures, paying homage to the man considered the father of modern China. On his path to revolution, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen strove to promote cultural understanding between China and the rest of the world, visiting Vancouver on a number of occasions.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a registered museum and one of Vancouver’s top tourist attractions. Until we can visit again, gain a sense of calm and culture through their virtual events.

Free Meditation Classes with Wellness in the Garden partner Lyn Sakari every Saturday at 9:00am PST. Using Zoom as the platform, to host 20 minute long meditation sessions to soothe your spirits.

Person sitting cross-legged on a couch with eyes closed, one hand on chest and the other on abdomen, surrounded by plants and decorative items.

Free Yoga Classes with Wellness in the Garden partner Nathalie Keiller every Monday at 9:30am PST. Also through Zoom, for a zen and active rise and shine! Limited spots (maximum 15 people).