Montreal Botanical Garden

Le Jardin Botanique de Montréal is one of the world’s premier botanical gardens. On its 75 hectares, a remarkably diverse array of plants is available to visitors in all seasons throughout the year. Explore its beauty through some twenty outdoor gardens and its 10 exhibition greenhouses. The botanical garden is one of five major attractions on the site, including the Biodôme, the Biosphère, the Insectarium, the Jardin Botanique, and the Planétarium. These prestigious municipal institutions form Canada’s largest natural science museum complex.

​One of the most captivating features of the Montreal Botanical Garden is its Chinese Garden, renowned as the largest of its kind outside China. Spanning 2.5 hectares, this garden was meticulously constructed between 1990 and 1991 by 50 artisans from the Shanghai Institute of Landscape Design and Architecture. It showcases traditional Ming Dynasty design elements, including winding paths, an artificial mountain, serene ponds, and authentic Chinese pavilions. The garden also houses a collection of bonsai and penjing donated from China, enhancing its cultural authenticity. 

A highlight of the Chinese Garden is the annual “Magic of Lanterns” event held from September to October. During this festival, the garden is adorned with hundreds of handcrafted silk lanterns, illuminating the space with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Accompanied by traditional Chinese music, this event offers visitors an immersive cultural experience that celebrates Chinese heritage and artistry. 

Beyond the Chinese Garden, the Montreal Botanical Garden boasts over 20 thematic gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses, featuring more than 22,000 plant species. Notable areas include the Japanese Garden, First Nations Garden, Alpine Garden, and extensive collections of orchids, bonsai, and cacti. This diversity makes it one of the most significant botanical gardens globally, offering a rich tapestry of horticultural and cultural experiences.