A zoo moved, making room for the Portland Japanese Garden’s start 60 years ago shared by Bethel Woods

@Beth · Nov 7, 2025

I recently learned that the Japanese Garden pond is the former bear sanctuary at the original Portland zoo!

A zoo moved, making room for the Portland Japanese Garden’s start 60 years ago

Here's how tattered acreage in Southwest Portland’s Washington Park was transformed to become the beloved Portland Japanese Garden and a respected educational center.

hereisoregon.com