Chinese Reconciliation Park

A Place of Remembrance & Renewal

Nestled along Commencement Bay in Tacoma, the 3.9-acre Chinese Reconciliation Park tells a powerful story. This waterfront gem isn't just another pretty space - it stands as a meaningful acknowledgment of a dark chapter in local history: the forced expulsion of Chinese residents from Tacoma in 1885.

Ironically, these same Chinese immigrants helped build the very railroads you can still see near the park today. After this shameful event, Tacoma remained without Chinese residents until around 1920. Today, the park is both a quiet space for reflection and a vibrant celebration of the city's multicultural identity. The Chinese Reconciliation Project Foundation continues working with the city to expand and enhance this meaningful space.

Where East Meets Northwest

What makes this park special is how it beautifully blends traditional Chinese garden elements with the familiar Pacific Northwest landscape. As you wander the interpretive pathways, you'll encounter informative signs and stone tableaux that tell the story of Chinese immigrants and their experiences.

A notable feature is the Fuzhou Ting - an ornate Chinese pavilion gifted by Tacoma's sister city, Fuzhou. This isn't some replica; it's the real deal, transported piece by piece from China and carefully reassembled right here in Tacoma. It's become a popular spot for quiet contemplation, cultural gatherings, and even the occasional intimate wedding ceremony.

Don't miss the elegant String of Pearls bridge, the serene grotto, or the stone sculptures with their intricate carvings. Throughout your visit, you'll notice how thoughtfully the landscaping incorporates both native and exotic plants.

What to Experience

Take your time strolling the peaceful trails that wind through the park. Find a bench along the waterfront and soak in those breathtaking views of Commencement Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and Browns Point. It's a fantastic place to slow down and just be present for a while.

Bring your four-legged friend if you'd like - just keep them leashed. You'll come across bag dispensers along the trails for easy cleanup. If you're into birdwatching, keep your eyes peeled for Barrow's Goldeneye ducks and other waterfowl along the shoreline. And if you're lucky, you might even spot harbor seals playing in the bay.

While the park itself isn't huge, it connects to the larger Ruston Way waterfront trail system, so you can easily extend your walk along Tacoma's picturesque shoreline. Whether you come for the history lesson or simply seeking a tranquil escape, you can find both here.

Good to Know

There's a decent amount of parking available, but it can fill up during nice weather or weekends. Most of the park is accessible via hard-packed surface paths, making it navigable for those with mobility challenges, but some areas may present limitations.

You'll come across restrooms within the park or nearby. There aren't designated picnic tables, but the grassy areas and numerous benches make this a lovely spot to enjoy a simple waterfront lunch or quiet moment of reflection.