The National China Garden is an expression of friendship between China and the United States and a testament to the celebrated cultural histories and traditions of both countries. The China Garden is based on an original design developed by a team of designers from China. It offers an extraordinary opportunity to build a lasting tribute to U.S. ‐ China relations in our Nation’s capital.
The U.S. and China reaffirmed a commitment to deepening bilateral economic cooperation and exchange to advance their common objectives during the U.S. ‐ China Strategic Economic Dialogue. To achieve that goal, both countries affirmed their support for the National China Garden and the National China Garden Foundation’s role in bringing the China Garden project to fruition.
The National China Garden at the U.S. National Arboretum is expected to be the finest example of a classical Chinese garden in the United States. It will be an originally designed garden located in an idyllic setting just two miles from the Capitol of the United States. It incorporates the best features from several well‐known gardens in the famous Chinese garden cities.
The People’s Republic of China is to provide 22 structures, classical Chinese art, furnishings and the labor to construct the garden, as well as the landscaping and the rockeries for the garden as a gift from the people of China to the people of the United States. The U.S. will provide the land, site preparation, architectural and engineering support and infrastructure for the project. The U.S. Congress has authorized the use of 12 acres at the National Arboretum for this purpose. The National China Garden Foundation has been established to raise $60 million in contributions and sponsorships to construct the garden and maintain the site for the public’s enjoyment for the years ahead.
Once completed, the China Garden is expected to become a focal point for cultural activities as well as a vibrant link between the United States and China. As a living classroom and national center for the study, appreciation and practice of traditional Chinese culture, the China Garden will provide a venue for the development of cultural and educational activities as well as a unique platform for people to people exchanges. The China Garden has the potential of becoming an important tourist destination in the nation’s capital.
