In 1958, Portland became a sister city to Sapporo, Japan, which created a broad interest in Japanese culture. In 1963, Professor Takuma Tono, head of the Landscape Architecture Department of Tokyo Agricultural University and an internationally recognized authority on Japanese landscape design, was commissioned to design and supervise the development of the Portland Japanese Garden in the scenic west hills of the city.

The Japanese Garden is designed to create an area of harmony with nature. Through the careful use of plants, stones, and water, areas of serene and quiet beauty emerge. These peaceful spots in the garden lend themselves to meditation and contemplation. The 5.5-acre Japanese garden is composed of five separate garden styles: a Strolling Pond Garden, a Tea Garden, a Natural Garden, a Flat Garden, and a Sand and Stone Garden.