OVERVIEW

Located at the southern end of Darling Harbour, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is a tranquil oasis amid Sydney’s busy cityscape. Opened in 1988 to celebrate the sister-city relationship between Sydney and Guangzhou, this classical Ming Dynasty–style garden blends architecture, water, and plants in perfect harmony. Visitors can wander winding pathways, cross arched bridges, and relax beside koi-filled ponds beneath weeping willows. Every stone and blossom is chosen for symbolic meaning, creating a deeply peaceful escape just steps from the city.

QUICK FACTS

Opening Hours

Daily, 10 am – 5 pm (last entry 4.30 pm)

Entry Fee

$12 | Concession $8 | Children (13 years and under) $6 | Family $36 (as of Nov 2025)

Location

Pier Street, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW

Best Time to Visit

This is a beautiful garden to visit any time of the year

Suggested Visit Duration

1 - 2 hours

HIGHLIGHTS

• Traditional pavilions, waterfalls, and lotus ponds inspired by classical Chinese design

• The Twin Pavilion offering views over the garden

• Exquisite penjing (miniature tree) displays

• Resident koi and turtles in the main pond

• Teahouse serving Chinese teas and light snacks

• Seasonal events such as Lunar New Year celebrations and lantern festivals

VISITOR INFORMATION

FACILITIES

☕ Teahouse Café
🚻 Toilets

ACCESSIBILITY

There is wheelchair and pram access to the lower areas of the garden. Steps and rocks in the upper part of the garden make it difficult to access. Accessible toilets available. The nearest point for drop off is Harbour Street.

GETTING HERE

Public Transport: The garden is a 10-minute walk from Town Hall Station or a short stroll from the Darling Harbour Light Rail stop.
Parking: Paid parking is available at nearby Darling Quarter or Harbourside car parks.

IS THE CHINESE GARDEN SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES?

Definitely! Children enjoy spotting koi and turtles in the ponds, water dragons sunning themselves on rocks and watching the daily fish feeding. There are plenty of winding paths to explore and The Emporer's Quest (see events below). Parents will appreciate the calm atmosphere and shaded seating areas.

FOOD AND DRINK

The on-site One Dining Teahouse offers traditional Chinese teas, dumplings, and light fare with views of the garden’s central pond. Darling Quarter and Chinatown, both minutes away, have numerous cafés and restaurants if you’d like a more substantial meal.

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

• Daily guided garden tours

• Movement and Meditation Classes each Tuesday during school terms

• Seasonal festivals celebrating Chinese heritage

• Chinese music performances on select Sundays

• The Emperor's Quest - a scavenger hunt to find the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac hidden throughout the garden

• Daily fish feeding of the koi in the central pond

INSIDER TIP

Visit early in the day or late afternoon for soft light and fewer visitors. Don’t miss the hidden pavilion at the top of the garden - it offers a quiet spot with lovely views.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

DARLING HARBOUR PRECINCT

Includes SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and the Australian National Maritime Museum.

CHINATOWN

Just a few minutes’ walk away for authentic dining and shopping.

Balance ropes, bridges, slides, tunnels, a flying fox and cool off sprays - sure to be a huge hit with the kids!

DARLING HARBOUR PLAYGROUND

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Website: Chinese Garden of Friendship

Contact: +61 2 9240 8888