Prior to heading to the aquarium, we took a look around the beautiful Chinese Garden of Friendship. Conveniently located at Darling Harbour, the garden was built as a symbol of friendship between Sydney and Guangzhou to mark Australia’s bicentenary in 1988. Aesthetic and harmonious elements make up the garden’s sizeable landscape: koi-filled lakes, gushing waterfalls, curious rock formations, stunning bonsai trees and the presence of interesting wildlife, just to name a few. With such lovely backdrops for photographs, it is no wonder the garden is known as a popular venue for weddings and functions.

When James was young, he had always wanted to move to Sydney. In his mind’s eye, he pictured himself visiting the garden regularly during his spare time, spending the day there and maybe reading a book in one of the peaceful pavilions. The idea that such a tranquil space could exist in the middle of a bustling city environment greatly appealed to him. As for me? Well, a magpie-lark decided to attack me while we were there (I guess it really didn’t like my camera and my god, that beak makes a vicious weapon), so I have other ideas about this garden. At least a territorial seagull came along and managed to teach that evil bird a good lesson!

CHINESE GARDEN OF FRIENDSHIP
Pier Street, Darling Harbour
Sydney, New South Wales 2000
Opening Hours: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Admission: $6 (adult), $3 (child/concession)
www.chinesegarden.com.au

Other posts from the Sydney series:
Angela’s Birthday Weekend Getaway
Taronga Zoo @ Sydney, New South Wales