Vancouver's Chinatown is -- like many Chinatowns outside of New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco -- really just a token street with a modicum of Chinese artifacts distingishing it from the rest of town. And unlike the Chinatowns I'm used to -- bustling centers of activity at nearly all hours of the day -- this one seemed to shut down around six in the evening, giving the place the feel of a closed amusement park.

But nestled in the back of a utilitarian PRC-esque courtyard is the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Gardens, a recreation of a Ming dynasty scholar's garden.

Yin and Yang - Scholarly Tranquility

Balance -- the equilibrium of Yin and Yang -- is the theme in this quiet refuge from the world at large. Mixing elements of what western gardeners call "formal" and "informal" gardens, this cosmos-in-miniature is also filled with symbolic reminders for the pondering scholar.

This place is not just meant to be a hideaway for the overburdened public servant. Ducks and geese find a comfortable place within these walls, too.

More than Scholars find Refuge

Reflection and Contemplation

A duckling's curiosity momentarily disturbs the reflective nature of this scene. But that, too, seems symbolic of life, doesn't it?

Just take a moment to absorb the peacefulness of the setting.

Wistful Contemplation