US historic library's Chinese Garden celebrates expansion with grand opening

A joint US-Chinese construction team was responsible for the project's implementation. More than 50 Chinese artisans from the Suzhou Garden Development Co spent six months at the Huntington, carrying out specialized carpentry, masonry, and tile work for the traditional structures in the final phase. Their hand-craftsmanship gave the Chinese garden and buildings in it authenticity and beauty.

With the addition of its new buildings, including a Ming Dynasty scholar's studio, an art gallery, a cafe, and an elegantly undulating miniature forest of Penjing (miniature potted landscapes), the garden's flowing vistas are now complemented by several more exotic architectural spaces that frame and accentuate the Huntington's natural beauty with delicacy and finesse.

A steady stream of eager visitors meandered along the paths of the Chinese Garden during the opening - all moving along newly designated, one-way paths to ensure proper social distancing for visitors during the pandemic.

All visitors must comply with mandated safety requirements, including a pre-entry symptom check, wearing face coverings, and maintaining physical distancing while on the property.

The visitors look relaxed and delighted to be out in such a beautiful setting on a perfect autumn day.

Two Pasadena locals, Elana, a ballerina, and Alex, a jazz musician, who have both performed in China, came to explore the new additions to the Chinese garden and enjoy its tranquil ambiance.

"It's very peaceful here. I grew up in LA so it's always nice to come here and just relax. It's like another world," said Alex.