Osaka Gardens

Osaka Japanese Garden in Chicago's Jackson Park

On June 5, 1995, as part of the Chicago Sister Cities International Program, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs hosted a ceremony celebrating the restoration of Osaka Garden in Jackson Park, and the installation of the entrance gate.

The original Osaka Garden had its history as part of the 1893 World's Fair. Over time, despite several attempts at moderate renovation, the area fell into disrepair and dilapidation. As a result the effort of many people and organizations, a long term refurbishment was organized and in 1993, the mayor of Osaka, while visiting Chicago, drafted a proposal to donate the traditional gate which you see in the photo below.

The entrance gate, a cedar structure modeled after a 17th century structure, took four months to build. Designed by Seattle architect Koichi Kobayashi and built by John Okumura's firm, the structure stands 10 feet high and 25 feet wide. The memorial Entry Gate and the two fences on either side of the Entry Gate was a project made by the following individuals: John Okumura (owner of Customer Cabinet Corporation), Koichi Asano (architect), Colby Lewis (architect), Ken Matykiewicz (an independent contractor specializing in fine carpentry, Kenco), and the crew of Custom Cabinet Corporation: Joy Jay, Long Khac Le and Len J. Cullum.




The blessing and dedication before the ribbon cutting ceremony

Mayor Daley of Chicago shakes hands with Osaka, Japan Deputy Mayor Shin Sasaki, immediately after the ribbon cutting ceremony. (Photo of this and all other photos on Osaka Gardens taken by his daughter. As this was a family event, other family members are visible in this photo, as well.)

After Mayor Daley of Chicago cuts the ribbon, it falls and the procession begins.

The ribbon is cut and the procession can begin.

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