Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber announced that Cairo’s Specialized Parks Department has wrapped up the restoration of the statues at the Japanese Park in Helwan. He added that the restoration was conducted under the supervision of experts and specialized restorers, restoring the statues to their original condition while preserving their historical and cultural features. The statue's restoration is part of the park’s revitalization project.
The governor has also directed the setting up of an urgent plan to restore the Japanese park and regain its former condition. The plan aims to revive the park’s status as one of Helwan’s premier recreational venues and historical landmarks. The park offers its visitors an urban atmosphere and preserves its distinctive architectural and artistic features.
The Japanese Park in Helwan, affiliated with Cairo’s Specialized Parks Department, was designed in 1919 by architect Zulfikar Pasha in an Asian style depicting Eastern civilizations. Originally named the “Asian Life Pavilion,” it was later renamed the Japanese Park. The park covers approximately 40,468 square meters, or about 10 feddans, and was completed in 1922.
Moreover, the park hosts a distinctive collection of Asian-style statues and sculptures, reflecting the park’s unique features. One of these is the Lotus Flower sculpture, centered around a statue of the park’s designer, Zulfiqar Pasha, surrounded by three Eastern-style elephants and the famous Buddha statue beside a ship. The park also features 48 statues of disciples of the Buddhist master “Shiba,” seated around him, and the “Three Wise Monkeys” statues, inspired by the saying “Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil.” The park also includes a statue of a turtle carrying a dragon, symbolizing strength and endurance.
The restoration is part of the governorate authorities’ efforts to preserve the cultural and architectural heritage of historic parks, revitalize heritage assets in the capital, and enhance green spaces and public recreational venues. These initiatives aim to improve living standards and provide residents with cultural and recreational destinations.
🖋️ Source: Media department, Cairo Governorate
