Portland 🌏 🌱

#earthdayjourney Portland Japanese Garden – A Peaceful, Sustainable Escape 🌿🏯 We explored the Portland Japanese Garden, and it was one of the most serene and environmentally mindful places we’ve ever visited. Built with a philosophy of harmony with nature, the garden uses sustainable landscaping techniques like rainwater collection and native plant restoration. The Kengo Kuma-designed Cultural Village is made from locally sourced materials and minimizes energy use, blending seamlessly into the lush surroundings. Walking through the moss-covered paths, we could feel how every element was designed with care for the planet. I would recommend visiting in the morning when it’s peaceful and filled with birdsong—it’s a perfect way to reflect on the beauty of the Earth. 📍 Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205 Farm Spirit – A Zero-Waste, Plant-Based Dining Experience 🥗🌱 We had an unforgettable meal at Farm Spirit, a restaurant that takes sustainability to the next level. Every dish is crafted using locally sourced, organic ingredients from farmers within 100 miles of Portland. What really stood out was their commitment to zero-waste cooking—they compost everything, even vegetable scraps, and use no single-use plastics. The tasting menu was not only delicious but also a celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s seasonal produce. If you care about ethical dining and want to experience a meal that’s as kind to the Earth as it is flavorful, I would recommend booking a table here in advance! 📍 Address: 1403 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214 Forest Park – The Largest Urban Forest in the U.S. 🌲🚶♂️ We hiked through Forest Park, and it was incredible to see a massive green space thriving right within the city. Spanning over 5,000 acres, this urban forest acts as a carbon sink, absorbing pollution and providing a home for local wildlife. The park is meticulously maintained with eco-friendly conservation practices, such as invasive species removal and trail restoration projects that protect native plants. We followed the Wildwood Trail, a stunning 30-mile path that winds through towering trees and babbling creeks. I would recommend bringing a reusable water bottle and spending a few hours here—every step reminds you of why protecting our planet is so important. 📍 Address: 4099 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210 From green architecture to plant-based dining and expansive forests, Portland is a city that truly lives and breathes sustainability. We left feeling inspired to incorporate more eco-friendly practices into our everyday lives 🌱