Oizumi Ryokuchi Park, Osaka, Japan

The Sensory Garden was developed as a renovation of the "Garden for the Blind" in Oizumi Ryokuchi Park, Osaka, Japan. When the original garden opened in 1974 it was in a distant corner of the park and was quite segregated from sighted visitors.

The Sensory Garden evolved from concepts of integration and universal design. This new garden, established in a more central location within the park, invites visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy its displays. As many as 500 people with a range of abilities were consulted on the features to be included in the park.

Designed by Yoshisuke Miyake.

What makes it so good?

• People can touch the plants, sculptures, water, and other tactile things.
• Wayfinding is both functional and funky.
• The benches surrounded by water are wheelchair accessible.
• It was thoroughly user tested before implementation.
• It looks amazing!

For more information, visit the the Center for Universal Design web site at: http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/nightsky/sensory/index.html

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