City A.M., a London, United Kingdom-based newspaper, sent writer James Luxford to Portland. Among the places they highlighted in the city was Portland Japanese Garden. Luxford writes, “Considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of the island nation, I felt transported to anywhere but a thriving city as I took in incredible plant life, serene ponds, and a tranquil village courtyard where live performances take place and there’s a café serving Japanese cuisine. With the trees rising to block out the outside world, it was remarkable how quickly my shoulders relaxed and let nature do its healing.”