Next to the Hayward Senior Center on North Third Street is one of the Bay Area's quietest free attractions. Wikipedia describes the Hayward Japanese Gardens as the oldest traditional-style Japanese gardens in California. For another South Bay option, see our guide to Saratoga's Hakone Gardens.
From farm plots to garden
From 1913 to 1962, the land was used by Hayward High School's agriculture program. It was set aside as a future park in 1962. The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District started buying the land in 1972, finished in 1976, and dedicated the garden in 1980, according to Wikipedia.
The design
Japanese master gardener Kimio Kimura designed the garden using Japanese principles but California native stone and plants. It has more than 70 plant species, including mondo grass, Japanese black pine, cedar, juniper and rhododendron. The woodwork is unstained, with recessed nails and fasteners. The wood was notched and aged to look like a traditional Japanese garden.
Visiting
- Where: 22373 N. Third St., Hayward, at Crescent
- Hours: Daily, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Christmas Day
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Parking and restrooms
Weddings
After public hours, from 4:30 to 7 p.m., the park district rents the garden for weddings and other small outdoor ceremonies, April through August. Groups are capped at 50 people, and alcohol, food and beverages aren't allowed. Requests must be made at least 30 days and no more than 11 months ahead. The garden isn't available for rentals on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or New Year's Day.