Now in mid-October, the landscape is noticeably shifting into fall, with far more reds, yellows, and oranges coming into view. We are still a bit away from peak fall colors, but visiting in person now is worth it to see the stunning transformation unfold.
In these first few weeks, updates will be about one to two times a week before they increase in frequency as we approach peak fall. As a reminder, we encourage people to join Portland Japanese Garden as a member so they can enjoy exclusive hours every morning we’re open, when the grounds are quieter and are easier to photograph.
Update: October 14
Autumn in Portland Japanese Garden
In Japan, the transition of seasons is revered for their impermanence. The fleeting nature of Japanese maples reaching peak color only heightens the anticipation of fall. In a part of the world better known for its year-round greenery, once a year, the Pacific Northwest comes to life with exquisite tone and texture. Throughout this season, Portland Japanese Garden is active as the lush, full, and matured trees from the summer transform into their autumn splendor, revealing brilliant shades of red and gold. When fall hits Portland Japanese Garden, it is absolutely stunning.
While factors like temperature, light, and water all affect the onset and duration of fall colors, one can expect to start to see the transformation throughout the month of October. As we head into fall, we will make regular updates on the state of our grounds to help prepare you for your visit.
A Note on Fall Foliage Maintenance: To maintain our paths and garden spaces at the level of cleanliness and grooming expected by all our visitors, our gardeners perform necessary maintenance year-round. This includes the use of electric leaf blowers. With a heavier volume of wet and fallen leaves in autumn, we often need to supplement with the use of gas leaf blowers. As stewards of the natural environment and in compliance with the county, our aim is to gradually decrease the use of gas-powered gardening tools each year.
Photographer Membership
Are you looking to sell your photographs of the Portland Japanese Garden? Our Photographer Membership is tailored specifically for both professional and amateur photographers. The Photographer membership includes:
- Access to special Photographer Member hours, providing a quieter environment with fewer visitors
- Permission to sell photographs of the Garden for commercial, advertising, or promotional purposes
- Additional membership benefits
Learn about the value of these photo memberships ahead of this picturesque seasonal time.
A Look Back at 2023
I catch
the maple leaf then let
it go
– John Wills, American haiku poet
When is peak fall color?
Factors like temperature, light, and water all affect the onset and duration of fall colors. Typically, you can start to see the transformation throughout the month of October through early November.
Where is “The Tree?” When is the best time to photograph it?
“The Tree” is a maple tree on the northern end of the Strolling Pond Garden. Among the many trees donated to Portland Japanese Garden throughout its history, The Tree became a beloved subject of photographers from all around the world when a Portland resident, physician Fred An, won a merit award from National Geographic for his shot of it in peak fall glory. Another image of The Tree was featured in an exhibition in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. Ever since, visitors and photographers alike have traveled great distances to see “The Tree” in-person. We ask that all guests be respectful of others and limit the amount of time spent at The Tree and avoid blocking it or the path leading to the occasion when the Garden experiences a sunny autumn day, the sun typically back lights the tree in late morning and through mid-afternoon.
I’m traveling from out of state – when should I plan my visit?
Typically, we see fall color from mid-to-late October to early November. Planning a trip within this time frame should provide some fall color, but we cannot predict when peak color will be or what exactly the foliage will be like at any given time. If possible, plan a longer trip and visit often so you can experience changes over time.
What are the policies around photography in the Garden?
We are honored that professionals and amateurs alike find inspiration at Portland Japanese Garden. To keep the Garden an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors, please be considerate when photographing the Garden by following these policies: Please do not block garden views, pathways, or elements for extended periods. The Garden does not allow portrait photography (e.g., engagement, wedding, graduation, or headshot photos). There is a $10.00/person charge for using a tripod for anyone who is not a Garden Member.
Must Visit Spots for Fall
Planning a road trip to admire fall foliage in the Pacific Northwest? Find your guides for local or regional fall-focused excursions here: