The Portland Japanese Garden was designed by Professor Takuma Tono and is divided into five sections: Strolling Pond Garden, Tea Garden, Natural Garden, Flat Garden, and the Stone and Sand Garden. Each garden exhibits a different area of horticulture with Japanese varieties of plants, trees, and shrubs. With an elevation of 500 feet right in the heart of Washington Park, this is a great spot to escape from downtown on a clear day. You can brave the walk up to the entrance or you can take the free shuttle that runs from the MAX stop. A guided tour is recommended. The best day to visit is a weekday, when the gardens are less crowded.