COFCO Chinese Cultural Center is located downtown. It is not to far of a drive, even if you are coming from Chandler, Arizona. It is easy to locate because you can see the large buildings and the unique architecture of the center,
Once you arrive you can go through any shop, restaurant, market, or just simply walk around and enjoy the nature the center offers. One of the shops i went to was called The Oriental Factory Direct. On the outside it looks like a tiny plant shop but as you walk in you can grasp a better idea of all the artifacts they have displayed for customers to purchase. This shop has everything from Chinese toe separated sandals to sharp metal swords. The best thing about this shop is that it's small, calming, and the owner is extremely friendly.
Nest is Ranch Market. On the outside it looks like your average grocery store but as you walk inside you instantly notice the unique smells, produce, and items being sold here. It is set up like most grocery stores, so it is easy to navigate yourself through. The nicest thing about this market is that they offer items that you would never find in a grocery store, such as unique fruits, baby octopus, and specialty drinks and candy. These are only a few of the things they sell. The only down side to this market is that it smells strongly of fish, because of their fresh meats.
My favorite thing of the entire center is the Chinese Cultural Botanical Garden. The garden is set up as a little journey filled with stone pathways, architectural statues, and places to sit down, all surrounding a large central Koi pond. The pond is filled with vibrant green lily pads, large marble statues, and beautiful fountains. The garden is a calm environment with beautiful architecture and nature. Every where you walk along the path you can read the plaques that teach you about the architecture you are observing. The botanical garden is calming and stunning. The only thing I suggest is to go when it is nice and cool outside. Because it is outside, you don't want to be walking around trying to enjoy yourself in 100 degree weather.
Overall The COFCO Chinese Cultural Center is an extremely unique experience. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and places to go and explore whenever you feel like it. It is completely free to go to it and you if you want, you can always bring a little extra money to purchase a souvenir.
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