With the fall approaching, the schools in the Tri-city area are on in full swing.  COVID-19 cases are also getting stabilized for the vaccinated people. Even though more and more are getting vaccinated, we still have to take all the necessary precautions for all the activities so that we protect others as well as ourselves. Parks, recreation areas, and picnic spots have reopened. As we have a wheelchair user in the family, now we can visit the wheelchair-friendly places more freely and take a quick stroll. As we are always looking for new places to visit, we were surprised to discover this Hidden gem in Hayward…The Japanese Garden.

This is a beautiful, quaint, and wheelchair-accessible garden located next to the Hayward Senior Center at the crescent of North Third Street in a neighborhood setting. The garden design is based on Japanese principles. The entrance of the garden is a little Shinto gate but once you are inside it’s absolutely gorgeous. This is one of the oldest Japanese gardens in California. The garden has different types of ornamental plants which are arranged densely along the pathways and well sculpted. Those cozy pathways make the place very private and they are completely wheelchair accessible. There are several covered Gazebos with ample seating and nice views overlooking the pond. Beautiful rock arrangements make a perfect seat for couples. There is a cute little waterfall in the center of the garden where you can see koi and turtles. The Garden is very clean and well maintained. The wooden bridge makes a nice backdrop for the pictures. The garden has no entry fees that can be used for its maintenance, so it is our duty to do our part and keep it clean.

This is a beautiful place for a quick stroll away from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Wheelchair Accessibility ♿️ ♿️

  • The paved pathway is completely wheelchair accessible.
  • The Gazebos and the wooden bridge are not wheelchair accessible.
  • Parking for the gardens is shared with the senior center, with a large accessible parking lot 
  • There is also additional ADA parking at De Anza Park Parking on North 3rd Street which is a short walk from the garden.
  •  There is a Senior Center as you enter the Gardens which has ADA restrooms. The Garden itself has no restrooms.

COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS ♿️ ♿️

Covid -19 restrictions are eased now with the reopening of many recreational activities. However, it is absolutely essential to keep social distancing and safety procedures in mind. At no point should these be compromised. 

  • Always wear your face mask in public places.
  • Avoid crowded areas if you are stepping out of the car
  • Always remember to carry gloves, hand sanitizer, water, food.
  • Do not forget to use the restroom before leaving from your house as it is safer to avoid using public restrooms during this period
  • Remember to wipe your crutch or mobility scooter handle or the wheelchair wheels every time you return from outdoors
  • Do not leave your items unattended.
  • Do not open your car windows in crowded places
  • While sitting on a bench outside, make sure you wipe the place.
  • Make sure to check the timings due to Covid -19
  • While walking or running make sure to keep a distance of 6 feet.