Chinese Garden of Friendship
10am - 5pm
Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday
The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a tranquil retreat in the middle of the city, and one of the best things to do in Sydney.
Welcome to the Chinese Garden of Friendship, an enchanting oasis nestled in the heart of Darling Harbour. Discover this hidden gem of tranquility located in between Darling Square and Darling Quarter, and the harmonious fusion of traditional Chinese landscape design and vibrant spirit of Sydney.
Step into a world where nature and culture intertwine effortlessly. The Chinese Garden of Friendship offers a serene escape from the bustling city, where you can wander along meandering pathways adorned with intricate pavilions, peaceful ponds, and lush flora. Each step reveals a new vista, a new moment of awe-inspiring beauty.
Built to symbolise the friendship between Sydney, New South Wales and the city of Guangzhou in the province of Guangdong, China, and inspired by the philosophy of Feng Shui, the garden is meticulously designed to balance the elements of water, plants, stone, and architecture, creating a space that exudes peace and balance.
Find respite under the shade of willow trees, let the melodies of gently flowing water transport you, and admire the artistry of delicate Chinese sculptures that dot the landscape.
Whether you're seeking a moment of serenity, a touch of cultural immersion, or a picturesque backdrop for your photography, the Chinese Garden of Friendship offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
In the middle of a garden sanctuary you will find One Dining. In the old tea house try delicious dumpling, pork buns and more. And if you aren’t peckish in the slightest then you can sit for a spot of Chinese tea, choose from all the greats, jasmine, China lychee and green Chai.
Cost
$12 Adult
$8 Child (under 12*)
$30 Family (two adults and three children)
Concession/Student: $8 (Australian card holders)
Senior: $8 (Australian card holders)
*Children under the age of 5 can enter the Garden for free
Adult, Child and Family tickets can be pre-purchased online. If you wish to purchase concession tickets, please present your proof of concession to the team and purchase in venue.
Friends of the Garden Annual Membership
$39 Concession/Student/Local Resident (2000, 2007 and 2009 postcodes)
$58 Individual
$118 Family (two adults and three children)
View the Conditions of Entry
Accessibility
Pathways and pavilions in the lower garden are accessible for wheelchairs, buggies and prams; however steps and rocky pathways make the upper part of the Garden difficult to access. The closest passenger drop-off point to the garden is on Harbour Street.
Facilities
The Chinese Garden has a fully upgraded accessible toilet and baby change facilities onsite.
Enrich your students’ cultural knowledge with a visit to the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Sydney Learning Adventures Education Tours
Self guided visits
Thinking of visiting the Garden as a group and discover what the Chinese Garden has to offer? The Chinese Garden of Friendship is one of Sydney’s most popular destination for gardening groups, heritage clubs, specialty tours and other outings.
Established in 2017, the Chinese Garden of Friendship Advisory Committee plays an integral role in guiding the Garden’s strategic planning, management, and cultural programming.
The Committee brings together leaders from diverse sectors, including business, the arts, design, academia, and Chinese cultural affairs. Collectively, they provide expert advice and strategic support to the Government to ensure the Garden’s long-term sustainability and cultural authenticity. Their guidance helps ensure that the Garden’s stewardship reflects a balance of professional disciplines, community perspectives, and the enduring spirit of friendship that inspired its creation.
Committee Members
Welcome to the New Members of the Advisory Committee
We are delighted to welcome the newly appointed members of the Chinese Garden of Friendship Advisory Committee. Each brings exceptional expertise and leadership across business, academia, the arts, and Chinese culture. Their collective experience will play a vital role in guiding the Garden’s future development and ensuring it continues to flourish as a cherished cultural landmark for generations to come.
Discover what's on at the Chinese Garden of Friendship
Take time out of your Tuesday to relieve stress, shift energy and find focus during your lunch break.
Learn about the history, landscape and cultural heritage of the Chinese Garden.
Can you find the 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar that are hidden in the Garden? This free activity will expand your knowledge of the Chinese zodiac while exploring the magical garden paths.
Feed the magnificent koi as they rush through the waters of the Chinese Garden of Friendship to get their lunch. Experience this free activity daily at 11:30am. During the colder months, our fish feeding sessions are subject to cancellation. If the lake water temperature drops below 10°C, we'll pause feeding based on veterinary advice.
Meandering Pathway of Tranquillity
One Dining
Savor the rich flavors of Chinese culture at One Dining. Their menu features traditional dishes with a modern twist, alongside an impressive wine list and artisinal teas. One Dining is perfect for any occasion. Their tranquil atmosphere and sophisticated menu make it ideal for a casual lunch, indulgent high tea, or a memorable event.
Friends of the Garden annual memberships
If you love the Garden, make visiting this tranquil haven a part of your regular routine. Become a friend of the Garden to unlock unlimited visits for a year, exclusive events, free parking, dining discounts and more! Or even reward your staff and build culture with our Jade or Gold corporate membership packages. Who doesn’t love a discount?
Weddings, Functions, Filming and Photography at The Garden
The natural beauty, architecture and elegance of the Chinese Garden of Friendship at Darling Harbour can provide a unique backdrop for any filming or photography project. Sheltered pavilions, graceful bridges, reflective pools and enchanting landscapes create the perfect setting for wedding ceremonies, birthday parties, cultural activations and many other events in the heart of the city.
History Of The Garden
Opened on 17 Jan 1988 for the Bicentenary, the Chinese Garden of Friendship was modelled after ancient private gardens in China from the 5th century. Discover the rich history behind the masterpiece of traditional Chinese culture infused with Australian characteristics.
Share your experience
Thanks to your feedback, the Chinese Garden of Friendship has been recognised among travellers’ favourites worldwide, earning a spot in Tripadvisor’s top 10% of things to do worldwide in 2025.
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