Chinese Garden of Friendship (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Chinese Garden of Friendship?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can hunt zodiac statues, join holiday crafts and clap for koi, but adults must supervise near unfenced water and help on the rocky upper paths where strollers do not roll.
Positives:
- Free Kids Activities: Zodiac hunt and fish feeding are free and keep children entertained.
- Shaded Pavilions: Multiple pavilions offer cool rest spots for snacks and breaks.
Challenges:
- Uneven Paths: Upper garden has steps and rocky surfaces not suited for strollers.
- Limited Seating: Pavilion benches fill quickly at peak times; consider bringing a small picnic mat.
What is Chinese Garden of Friendship?
- A walled classical Chinese garden in Sydney’s Darling Harbour featuring traditional pavilions, rock formations, winding paths, ponds and waterfalls
- A landscape designed by Guangzhou’s garden experts in 1987 to embody Taoist principles of yin and yang and the vital energy of qi
- Architecture and horticulture modelled on private Chinese gardens from antiquity, complete with exotic plants, stone bridges and a lakeside teahouse
What is so special about Chinese Garden of Friendship for with kids?
- Free zodiac animal hunt engages kids
- Daily koi feeding thrills the whole family
- Scenic pavilions, bridges and waterfalls to explore
- Junior Garden Master Challenge during school holidays
- Teahouse by the lake for snacks and rest
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives families time to complete the zodiac hunt, watch koi feeding and enjoy a teahouse break without rushing children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Chinese Garden of Friendship
Emperor’s Quest Zodiac Hunt:
Kids follow a free trail sheet to find 12 hidden zodiac animals around the garden.
Tip: Pick up the sheet at the entrance and start before the 11:30am koi feeding.
Daily Koi Fish Feeding:
Children clap to call koi at the Lenient Jade Pavilion at 11:30am each day.
Tip: Arrive a few minutes early to secure a front spot by the pond.
Junior Garden Master Challenge:
School-holiday event where kids draw, code-break and scout animals for a prize.
Tip: Available during NSW school holidays; check dates at the front desk on arrival.
Explore Pavilions and Bridges:
Wander through the Pavilion of Clear View, rock bridges and waterfalls.
Tip: Use the lower level pathways if you have a stroller; save the upper steps for older kids.
Teahouse by the Lake:
Sip jasmine tea and try dumplings or pork buns overlooking the pond.
Tip: Order lightly so children can share; seating fills up by midday.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chinese Garden of Friendship
- Arrive Early: Get there by 10am to avoid crowds and join the 11:30am koi feeding.
- Bring Water and Hats: Few drinking fountains available; carry water bottles and sun hats for kids.
Reviews of Chinese Garden of Friendship
Vinay Krishnamurthy
Beautiful and wonderful park with so much amazing views. A calm place in a busy city and all facilities are clean & tidy. Worth the money to pay to visit this amazing place
han paynter
the smell of all of the trees and the sound of the running water gave way to a truly tranquil experience. i loved finding all the stunning little nooks and crannies, filled with incredible bonsais and stone formations!! definitely worth the $12 entry fee (for adults).
Tatiana Lu
Our visit to the Chinese Garden of Friendship was amazing! We really enjoyed strolling through the beautiful trees, traditional structures, and peaceful pathways. The little waterfall near the café added a lovely touch to the atmosphere. A serene and scenic spot — perfect for a relaxing walk and quiet reflection.
Krystal Engler
The Chinese Garden of Friendship was the most beautiful garden I have ever had the pleasure of exploring. The photos truly do not do justice to the beauty and serenity of the garden. Before I knew it, I had already spent over 3 hours just wandering along the paths and losing myself amongst the plants and gorgeous architecture. I can't wait to come back again, and again, and again. Thank you for...
Karen Dellaway
Absolutely gorgeous gardens. So much to see, I spent hours in there walking around and finding all kinds of hidden little spots to view. A great place to have a picnic as there are little areas with seating to sit back and enjoy and listen to the sounds. I can't believe that it is surrounded by the city. It's so peaceful and beautiful.
When is the best time to visit Chinese Garden of Friendship (Sydney, Australia)?
Late Jan–early Feb weekends feature free lantern workshops and lion dance classes for Lunar New Year. During school holidays join the Junior Garden Master Challenge.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2) | AUD 18 |
| Child admission (age 5–12) | AUD 9 |
| Tea and snacks | AUD 15 |
| Souvenir | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 52 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Chinese Garden of Friendship
Address: Pier Street, Cnr Harbour St, Darling Harbour NSW 2000, Australia
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About Chinese Garden of Friendship
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 9240 8888Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with kids
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