One of the best reasons to visit Washington Park is that two of the city’s landmark natural spaces sit side-by-side on its northern end: Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden. Because of their proximity there is a common misconception that they are both run by the same organization, but Portland Japanese Garden is a private nonprofit and the Rose Garden is operated by Portland’s Park and Recreations Bureau and is supported by the Friends of Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden.
While they may be separate entities, there is a great deal of admiration and support that flows between the two attractions. This was clear in October when our organization’s gardeners headed across SW Kingston Ave. to help tend to the adjacent landscape.
“A few months back, I reached out to Rachel Burlington, Curator at the Rose Test Garden, to set up a regular coffee,” shares David Howlett, Senior Gardener of Portland Japanese Garden. “In our discussions, Rachel mentioned a large volunteer event they hold annually to prune roses to about 18-30 inches, so they can grow back stronger the following year. I offered to bring a crew of experienced gardeners to help the volunteers and city staff. Just helping a neighbor! Many of the volunteers and staff mentioned wanting to come to Portland Japanese Garden after working with us.”
“I greatly admire the Rose Test Garden,” concludes Hugo Torii, Garden Curator and a community figure who was knighted as part of the 2025 Honorary Knighting Ceremony and Rose Festival Queen’s Coronation. “They offer an excellent and very different experience in nature than our landscape. I’m glad that members of our staff were able to assist them in this effort and I look forward to seeing the roses bloom again next year.”
