Hing Hay Park: A Gathering Place in Seattle's Chinatown-International District
Experience the cultural heart of Seattle's Chinatown-International District at Hing Hay Park, a place for community, culture, and celebration.
Hing Hay Park, nestled in the heart of Seattle's Chinatown-International District (CID), is more than just a park; it's a vibrant symbol of community resilience and cultural preservation [8, 15]. Its name, translating to 'Celebrate Happiness Public Park' or 'Park for Pleasurable Gatherings,' reflects its role as a central gathering place for the neighborhood [2, 8, 15]. Originally conceived in the 1970s as part of the Model Cities Program, the park addressed the urgent need for open space in the densely populated CID [2, 8]. The eastern half of the park was created in 1973 after the demolition of two SRO hotels [2, 5]. In 2018, the park underwent a significant expansion, doubling in size and adding a cultural performance space and an iconic artistic gateway [5, 15]. The gateway, constructed of perforated red metal, draws inspiration from Asian paper cutting traditions [8]. The park's design, a blend of traditional Asian aesthetics and contemporary urban design, features terraces reminiscent of rice paddy fields, integrated seating, and Chinese plantings [8]. The Grand Pavilion, an ornate structure designed and constructed in Taipei, Taiwan, serves as a focal point [2, 15]. A large mural on the adjacent Bush-Asia Center depicts scenes of Asian-American history in the Northwest [5, 15]. Hing Hay Park is a popular spot for martial arts practitioners, Tai Chi enthusiasts, and those seeking a quiet moment of reflection [5, 15, 20]. It also serves as the center for many festivals, including the Lunar New Year and Summer Dragon Fest celebrations [5, 15].
Local tips
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals, performances, and free movie screenings, especially during the summer [5, 6, 10].
- Explore the surrounding Chinatown-International District for authentic Asian cuisine, unique shops, and cultural experiences [19, 22].
- Visit the park during the day for a peaceful atmosphere or in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife of the neighborhood [20].
- Take public transportation, as parking in the area can be limited, especially during events [3, 4, 9].
A brief summary to Hing Hay Park
- 423 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, Seattle Chinatown-International District, Washington, 98104, US
- +1206-684-4075
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
Hing Hay Park is easily accessible via public transportation. The International District/Chinatown Station is served by Link Light Rail, multiple Metro bus routes, and the First Hill Streetcar [3, 17, 21]. From the station, walk north along Maynard Avenue South to reach the park. A single ORCA card fare costs around $2.50 - $3.25 [3].
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Walking
From Seattle's downtown core or Pioneer Square, Hing Hay Park is within walking distance. Head east towards the Chinatown-International District, ориентируясь на King Street и Maynard Avenue South. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from Pioneer Square. Look for the Historic Chinatown Gate as a landmark [5].
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach Hing Hay Park. Input '423 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104' as your destination. A short ride from downtown Seattle typically costs $10-$15, depending on traffic.
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Parking
If driving, limited street parking is available in the Chinatown-International District [3, 4, 9]. Several parking lots and garages are also located nearby [3, 4, 13]. Parking costs vary, with hourly rates ranging from $3-$5 [13]. Some nearby options include the lots at 614 Maynard Ave S and 900 S King St [4]. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits.
