Media Advisory: Grand Opening Celebration of Heinlenville Park in San José’s Historic Japantown
The City of San José Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department invites the District 3 Community to celebrate the culture and revitalization of Japantown.
Post Date:10/06/2023 2:00 PMDaniel Lazo, Public Information Manager, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
408-460-4468; daniel.lazo@sanjoseca.gov
Advisory
Detail
When:
Tuesday, October 10, 2023
3 - 4 p.m.
Where:
Heinlenville Park
650 N. 6th St.
San José, CA 95112
Who:
Mayor Matt Mahan
Omar Torres, District 3 Councilmember
Connie Young Yu, Published Author and Descendant of Heinlenville
Warren Hayashi, Founding Member of Japantown Community Congress
Pam Yoshida, Japantown Community Congress Co-President
Tamiko Rast, Community Historian
Roy Hirabayashi, Founder of San Jose Taiko
Roger Stoller, Sheltering Wing Park artist
Jason Victor, KayVictor Landscape Designer
Sean McEachern, Shea Properties Development Vice President
Nanci Klein, Office of Economic Development Director
Jon Cicireli, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department Director
Background:
Heinlenville Park, situated in the heart of Japantown, is a meticulously designed space that pays tribute to the rich history of the area.
This ribbon cutting ceremony highlights Japantown’s revitalization and honors John Heinlen, a German immigrant whose legacy played a pivotal role in shaping this community.
Heinlenville Park includes special elements like:
A Public Art Sculpture titled “Sheltered Wing” by artist Roger Stoller. In collaboration with a committee of local historians, artists and community leaders, Stoller’s 19’ tall sculpture is embedded with imagery portraying important Japanese and Chinese cultural symbols and depictions of the Heinlenville Chinatown experience.
A History Path that recounts the Chinese American experience, including San José’s broader history and focusing on important aspects of this site’s past as Heinlenville Chinatown.
Stonework in the north garden created by Ken Matsumoto, local Japantown master stone artist and craftsman.
Landscaping throughout the park designed by KayVictor.
In addition to the special elements, the new park also features picnic tables, game tables, a play area, a drinking fountain, bike rack, and plenty of shaded space.
The extensive scope of work and the addition of new elements is a testament to the City of San José's commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation, and creating an inviting green space for residents of all ages to enjoy.
