Nikkei Park

A Glimpse of History

Positioned in Northeast Vancouver's North Image Neighborhood, Nikkei Park is a relatively new 5-acre green space that opened its gates in 2021. But don't let its youth fool you - the park carries profound historical weight. It was thoughtfully named to honor the Japanese American truck farmers who were the backbone of local agriculture in the early 1900s.

By 1930, Japanese Americans represented nearly half (47%) of Clark County's truck farmers. Sadly, during World War II, these families were forcibly uprooted from their homes and sent to internment camps - a dark chapter in American history. The name "Nikkei," which refers to Japanese emigrants and their descendants, emerged as the community's choice to acknowledge this past while celebrating the incredible resilience and contributions of Japanese Americans.

What You'll Find

The park features dinosaur-themed play equipment that's especially popular with children. Little ones can climb aboard rideable dinosaurs or get their hands dirty in the sand pit where they can unearth "fossils" buried beneath. Locals have nicknamed it the "Dinosaur Park." Children can excavate dinosaur bones from the sand, and you'll often find community-donated sand toys available to share.

The playground thoughtfully caters to different age groups, with a smaller structure meant for toddlers and a more challenging play area for older kids. You'll come across all the playground classics: climbing structures, slides, monkey bars, and four swings (including two designed with tiny tots in mind).

Beyond the playground, Nikkei Park offers a smooth paved walking trail that loops around the entire park, a half-court basketball area for shooting hoops, and plenty of open grass for whatever game strikes your fancy - football, frisbee, or maybe a friendly cornhole competition. Parents and fitness enthusiasts can appreciate the fitness equipment zone next to the playground, making it possible to squeeze in a workout while keeping an eye on the kids.

Practical Stuff

You'll come across all the essentials here for a comfortable visit. There's a clean, single restroom near the parking area that includes a changing table for babies. Need to hydrate? A water fountain stands at the park entrance, thoughtfully designed with a lower bowl for four-legged friends.

If you're planning a picnic, several tables are scattered around the grounds, plus there's a covered picnic shelter - though be aware it offers limited protection during heavier downpours. For those bringing grills, hot coal disposal bins are available (always a responsible touch).

Good to Know Before You Go

Nikkei Park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 10PM. While it's a wonderful community space, it can get pretty packed on sunny days and weekends. The parking situation is somewhat limited with only about 11 dedicated spaces. If you find the lot full, you can try overflow parking at Image Elementary during non-school hours or look for street parking in the surrounding neighborhood.

One heads-up: there's not much shade around the playground area, so don't forget hats, sunscreen, and maybe a portable umbrella during summer months.

Nikkei Park serves both as a recreational space and as a reminder of the community's complex history.