This morning, we went to the Hangzhou Botanical Gardens, which are an amazing retreat just 15 minutes from our apartment! When we announced to the boys last night that we were going to go, they said, "aw, not GAAARRRDENS!!" We were there by 8:30am this Saturday morning, and they changed their tune immediately!
The gardens encompass about 625 acres and contain about 3,500 different species of plants. There's even a Sequoia Pine that Richard Nixon gave China on his visit. The purpose of the gardens, which were opened in 1956, are scientific study, preservation, and recreation.
We stopped at a Tea House in the gardens and watched these men playing their game together.
Very picturesque tea house out in the middle of the forest!
Gratuitous flower picture...
Entering the YuQuan temple garden. This scenic spot was established nearly 1500 years ago during the Southern Song Dynasty (1129 - 1217).
Peter LOVED this spot! "It's so MOIST, Dad!" Peter loves to be moist.
There were many peacocks strolling around. It was all the kids could do to keep from chasing them!
There were lots of other little kids around with their parents. This boy was particularly curious in all of these white faces that had invaded his garden!
Sophie found this little girl to play with.
Gratuitous flower pictures...
Sophie, Sue and Jack enjoying this gorgeous place. Such a contrast to being in the city only minutes away!
We got a couple of drinks; Jack with his orange soda and me some green tea that was too sweet. Jack wanted you to see the Chinese.
No comments:
Post a Comment