This Phase includes the Hmong Plaza, Pavilion Landscape, Donor Wall and Moon Gate.
The Minnesota China Friendship Garden Society, working with the Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Department and two Changsha architects, formally launched phase two of the garden with a dedication ceremony this fall. The sister-city project between Saint Paul and Changsha in Hunan Province is a relationship that began in 1988 and created the first Changsha-style garden in the U.S.
The Hmong Cultural Plaza is an important element in the China Garden because Minnesota Hmongs claim Changsha as their ancestral home, and a large Hmong community live in the Phalen Park area. Hmong cultural symbols and historical information will be included in the Plaza.
Garden designs integrate nature and culture; expand cultural understanding; demonstrate the aesthetics of Chinese art, landscape design, and architecture; foster further sister-city activities and trade; and create a sense of community as a place for celebrating life events, recreation, and meditation.
Enjoy this beautiful short video about the history and future of the project.
You can bring Phase 2 of this extraordinary garden to life by making a gift to the Minnesota China Friendship Garden Society here.