Osaka, Japan is renowned for its vibrant urban life, but when spring arrives, the city transforms into a stunning landscape of cherry blossoms. For foreign visitors seeking the best spots to experience this natural beauty, Osaka offers a variety of locations, from peaceful parks to historic landmarks. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls under blooming trees or enjoying a picnic with family, the city’s cherry blossom spots provide the perfect setting to celebrate the season. Here are some of the top places in Osaka to witness the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms during their peak bloom.
1. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
2. Osaka Castle Park
3. Mint Museum’s Cherry Blossom Lane
4. Kema Sakuranomiya Park
5. Tempozan Park
6. Suminoe Park
7. Daisen Park
8. Hamadera Park
9. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
10. Satsukiyama Park
11. Katsuo-ji Temple
1. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
Located in Tsurumi Ward, Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park offers a serene escape from the bustling city center of Osaka. This expansive park is divided into several zones, including a large lawn, Windmill Hill, and a rose garden. During cherry blossom season, the park is bustling with visitors who come to see over 1,400 cherry trees, predominantly Somei Yoshino. A highlight is the cherry blossom tunnel on the east side of the large pond, typically blooming from late March to early April.
Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
- Address: Ryokuchi Park, Tsurumi Ward, Osaka
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Tsurumi Ryokuchi Station on the subway
- Hours: Open year-round from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary)
- Parking: Available, 1,113 spaces, fees apply
2. Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park is a must-visit cherry blossom spot in Osaka, offering a mix of historical significance and natural beauty. The park, centered around the iconic Osaka Castle, features a lush landscape with approximately 300 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino, in the Nishinomaru Garden. Visitors can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms and castle at night. The best viewing time is from late March to early April.
Osaka Castle Park
- Address: Osaka Castle, Chuo Ward, Osaka
- Access: Immediately accessible from JR Osaka Loop Line, Osaka Castle Park Station
- Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours
- Parking: Available, 271 spaces, fees apply
3. Mint Museum’s Cherry Blossom Lane
The Mint Museum’s Cherry Blossom Lane is one of the most renowned cherry blossom spots in the Kansai region. With a history of over 140 years, this 560-meter lane lined with cherry trees creates a stunning display when in full bloom. The combination of the retro buildings from the Meiji era and cherry blossoms makes for a picturesque setting. The best time to visit is from early to mid-April. Note that a prior reservation is required to visit. A link to the official site for reservations will be provided once available.
Mint Museum’s Cherry Blossom Lane
- Address: 1-1-79 Tenma, Kita Ward, Osaka
- Access: About a 15-minute walk from Tenmabashi Station on Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line or Keihan Main Line
- Parking: Not available
4. Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Stretching along the Okawa River from Kema Washland to Tenmabashi, Kema Sakuranomiya Park offers a scenic riverside setting with a 4.2-kilometer-long cherry blossom promenade. The park is popular for walking, running, and picnicking, especially during cherry blossom season. The historical buildings along the right bank add a charming backdrop to the blossoms, which typically bloom from late March to mid-April.
Kema Sakuranomiya Park
- Address: Various locations along Okawa River, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka
- Access: Accessible from JR Osaka Loop Line, Kyobashi Station / Sakuranomiya Station
- Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours
- Parking: Not available
5. Tempozan Park
Known for its low mountain with an elevation of 4.5 meters, Tempozan Park offers a tranquil space near the bustling Kaiyukan Aquarium. The park features a monument commemorating Emperor Meiji’s visit to inspect naval vessels. Cherry blossoms bloom from late March to early April, making it a peaceful spot for a springtime stroll.
Tempozan Park
- Address: Chikko, Minato Ward, Osaka
- Access: A 7-minute walk from Osaka Metro Osaka Port Station
- Parking: Nearby coin-operated parking available
6. Suminoe Park
Suminoe Park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, with blossoms appearing as early as February. The park hosts various events during the cherry blossom season, making it a family-friendly destination. Visitors can enjoy the blossoms alongside plum trees in February or opt for a barbecue under the blossoms in warmer April weather.
Suminoe Park
- Address: 1-1-117 Minami Kaga, Suminoe Ward, Osaka
- Access: A 7-minute walk from Suminoe Koen Station on Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line
- Parking: Available, 64 spaces, fees apply
7. Daisen Park
Located near Japan’s largest kofun (burial mound), Daisen Park offers a historical and natural experience. With over 1,000 cherry trees, including early-blooming Shirohigan-shidare and the classic Somei Yoshino, the park is a designated historic site. The cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April.
Daisen Park
- Address: 1-4-3 Higashi Uenoshiba, Sakai Ward, Sakai
- Access: A 300-meter walk from Mozu Station on JR Hanwa Line
- Parking: Available, 438 spaces, fees apply
8. Hamadera Park
Famous for its 4,000 black pines, Hamadera Park is listed among Japan’s top 100 pine spots. The park features a rare rose garden and a beautiful cherry blossom tunnel. Visitors can enjoy various cherry species, including Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, Shidarezakura, and Oyamazakura. The blooms are best from late March to early April.
Hamadera Park
- Address: Hamadera Koen-cho, Nishi Ward, Sakai
- Access: A 3-minute walk from Hamadera Koen Station on Nankai Electric Railway
- Parking: Available, fees apply
9. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is home to the famous Tower of the Sun and various Expo ’70 pavilions. The park showcases seasonal flowers, with cherry blossoms starting in mid-March. Events during cherry blossom season include night illuminations, food trucks, and craft shops, offering a festive atmosphere.
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
- Address: Senri Banpaku Koen, Suita
- Access: A short walk from Banpaku Kinen Koen Station on Osaka Monorail
- Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Parking: Available, fees apply
10. Satsukiyama Park
Situated on the 315.3-meter Satsukiyama, Satsukiyama Park is a beloved spot for cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn foliage. The park features a unique zoo known for its “Heartful Zoo” slogan and offers hiking trails and a BBQ area at Ryokufudai, providing a scenic view of the blossoms. The best viewing time is from late March to early April.
Satsukiyama Park
- Address: Ayaha 2-chome, Ikeda
- Access: A 15-minute walk from Ikeda Station on Hankyu Railway Takarazuka Line
- Parking: Available, fees apply
11. Katsuo-ji Temple
Famous for its “winning Daruma” dolls, Katsuo-ji Temple is also a top cherry blossom spot. The temple offers a serene atmosphere with a stunning display of cherry blossoms, making it a unique spot for viewing blooms and praying for success.
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