Osaka Garden

Osaka Garden, also called the Garden of the Phoenix, is a Japanese-style garden on Wooded Island in Jackson Park, Chicago. Created for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, it has winding paths, a koi pond, a waterfall and footbridges. In spring, cherry trees bring pale pink blossoms; the grounds are also a quiet place to watch birds and see Yoko Ono’s permanent artwork, SKYLANDING. The garden is compact, so a short walk can be enough, with space to pause along the way.

A garden created for the 1893 World’s Fair

Osaka Garden began as part of the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. The United States and Japan established it as a symbol of friendship, and it was designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Set on Wooded Island in Jackson Park, the garden is also known as the Garden of the Phoenix.

The layout follows the form of a Japanese strolling garden, with a path that bends through the grounds. Rather than taking in the whole garden at once, you encounter its views as the path turns. The garden’s links to Japan and the fair give this compact green space a distinct place within Jackson Park.

Paths, water and SKYLANDING

The garden’s features include a koi pond, waterfall and footbridges, alongside cherry trees and Japanese-inspired planting. Spring is a good time to see the cherry blossoms. Birds and other wildlife can also be spotted around the grounds, though sightings vary.

Look for SKYLANDING, Yoko Ono’s permanent art installation, within the garden. Some paths or areas have been affected by restoration work, so access to every part of the grounds may not be available during your visit. The garden has free admission and a wheelchair-accessible entrance.