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Osaka Cherry Blossoms: 10 Great Places to Visit in 2024
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Osaka's cherry blossoms start blooming in late March. We introduce 10 wonderful locations to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Osaka and nearby cities. Our selection includes Okawa River, Osaka Castle Park, Expo '70 Commemorative Park, and other famous destinations.
Cherry Blossoms in Osaka 2024
The cherry blossom season arrives in late March as the weather becomes warmer and winter ends. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 excellent places to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Osaka.
According to the latest Weathernews forecast, in 2024, Osaka's cherry blossoms are expected to start blooming around March 27. Browse through the locations introduced below to find your favorite spot!
In order to save on transportation and admission fees while exploring Osaka, we suggest using the Osaka Amazing Pass or the Osaka Metro Pass (1 or 2 Days).
Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Osaka
1. Okawa River Sakura Cruise
2. Osaka Castle Park
3. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
4. Japan Mint Headquarters
5. Daisen Park
6. Bentenshu Meioji Temple
7. Satsukiyama Ryokuchi Park
8. Yamanakadani Valley
9. Kishiwada Castle
10. Katsuoji Temple
1. Okawa River: Osaka's Most Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
Photo by Pixta
Okawa River flows through central Osaka and is a must-visit spot during cherry blossom season. Approximately 4,800 cherry blossom trees bloom along the river.
A great way to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the river is to take the Okawa River Sakura Cruise. The cruise operates takes about 25 minutes. You can enjoy it by booking the Osaka Amazing Pass.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider going on a private one-hour cherry blossom cruise, which will alllow you to relish the blossoms at leisure.
Kema Sakuranomiya Park and the Japan Mint Headquarters, both famous cherry blossom spots, are on either side of Okawa River. The cherry blossoms can also be enjoyed on a stroll, but seeing them from a cruise boat will be a truly memorable experience.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
2. Osaka Castle Park: Cherry Blossoms and a Japanese Castle
Photo by Pixta
Osaka Castle Park is home to Osaka Castle and Nishinomaru Garden. The cherry blossom trees in this park used to be the standard for announcing the start of the blooming period in Osaka.
Nishinomaru Garden is home to about 300 blossoming cherry trees, including the classic Somei Yoshino variety. The gardens offer stunning views of the cherry blossoms and Osaka Castle.
Once night falls, the illuminated Osaka Castle and cherry blossoms create a dazzling view different than during the day. The park becomes crowded during this season, so we suggest arriving early in the day to find a spot if you plan to have a hanami picnic here.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
3. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park: Enjoy the Flowers and a Picnic
The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is the site of the Japan World Exposition held in 1970. The tall Tower of the Sun is a very impressive and iconic statue that was created by artist Taro Okamoto.
Approximately 5,500 cherry blossom trees of nine different species, including the Somei Yoshino cherry and weeping cherry varieties, dye the park in pink. The park is designated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots and is definitely worth seeing.
We recommend this park for hanami picnics in Osaka as it is very large. Bring a classic bento box or lunch with you and visit the park together with family and friends.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Address: Osaka, Suita, Senribampaku-koen 1-1 Google Map
Access: Direct from Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station (Osaka Monorail)
Official Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/
4. Japan Mint: Walk Through a Cherry Blossom Tunnel!
Picture courtesy of Japan Mint Inc.
The Japan Mint is in the Kita district of Osaka. It is not normally open to the public, but the property is partially opened annually for just one week when the Yaezakura, a double-layered cherry blossom variety, comes into bloom. The event held during this one week is called the Cherry Blossom Passage.
The Cherry Blossom Passage is made up of various types of cherry blossom trees. Around 130 types of cherry blossoms bloom here! This is the only location where you can see rare blossom varieties in Japan.
Please note there are several rules to follow here, including adhering to one-way traffic and only observing the trees. Consult with the staff when visiting to be polite.
*1 Yaezakura: a cherry blossom variety with a double layer of petals. They bloom later than other cherry blossom varieties. It is also called the botan (peony) cherry blossom.
Start of Bloom (Annual Average)
Around April 10
5. Daisen Park: Visit a UNESCO Heritage Site
Picture courtesy of Daisen Park Administration Office
Daisen Park is next to the World Heritage Site of the Mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku (*2), an emperor who ascended to the throne in the fourth century. The park contains a pond and an open grass lawn.
You can also experience Japanese culture here at the Japanese garden and teahouse. The park is registered as one of Japan’s Top 100 Historical Parks.
Once cherry blossom season arrives, the entire park turns a soft pink color from the 400 cherry blossom trees surrounding Dora Pond. This spacious park is filled with enough entertainment for a full day of fun and is ideal for both children and adults.
*2 Kofun: a type of gravesite made in ancient Japan. It is a tomb typically for influential persons or those with high social status. There are various types, sizes, and shapes of kofun gravesites in Japan.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
6. Meioji Temple: Magical Cherry Blossom Illuminations!
Picture courtesy of Bentenshu Meioji Temple
Meioji Temple is in Ibaraki City in northern Osaka Prefecture. The 73-meter tall tower and spherical sculpture on the precincts draw the attention of many travelers.
The temple is also called Ibaraki’s Benten by the locals. Benten refers to Benzaiten, one of the Seven Deities of Fortune in Japan. Temple visitors are thought to receive blessings related to water, wealth, and relationships.
Approximately 500 cherry trees, including some of the Somei Yoshino variety, bloom at this temple. The cherry blossoms in full bloom are illuminated once it gets dark, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The captivating evening cherry blossoms make this location ideal for both daytime and nighttime flower viewing.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
7. Satsukiyama Ryokuchi: Cheery Blossom Heaven!
Photo by Pixta
Satsukiyama Ryokuchi brims with nature and is in Ikeda City, northern Osaka Prefecture. On the grounds, you’ll find hiking trails, Satsukiyama Zoo, and Satsukiyama Park. The area tends to get crowded during weekends and holidays as it is a popular excursion spot for families.
Around 35,000 cherry trees bloom in this vast area, so we recommend enjoying the blossoms while taking a stroll. There are a total of nine hiking trails including the Omoji Course, suitable for beginners, and the slightly sloped Satsukidai Course. A trail map can be found on the Ikeda City Tourism Association’s official website (Japanese).
Picture courtesy of Ikeda City Office
Once you’ve had your fill of flowers, visit Satsukiyama Zoo (Japanese). Admission is free and it will be fun to see the wombats and other adorable animals.
In the evening, the cherry blossoms are illuminated by the soft light of chochin (paper lanterns), creating a magical scenery.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
8. Yamanakadani Valley: A Famous Cherry Blossom Festival
Photo by Pixta
Yamanakadani Valley is in Hannan City, on the border of Osaka and Wakayama. This area prospered during the Edo period (1603-1868) but became less populated over time. In an effort to revitalize the region, cherry blossom trees have been planted on the Yamanaka Riverside since about 50 years ago. Currently, there are about 1,000 cherry blossom trees gracing the area with their beauty in spring.
You can enjoy the view of a cherry blossom tunnel along the railway tracks near Yamanakadani Station on the JR Hanwa Line.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
9. Kishiwada Castle: A Hidden Spot for Cherry Blossom Viewing
Kishiwada Castle is located in Kishiwada, a city famous for the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (*5). This castle is smaller than Osaka Castle but has unique stone walls constructed with three different stacking patterns and a wide water moat.
Approximately 170 cherry blossom trees can be seen around the castle grounds. The cherry blossom petals floating on the surface of the moat create a stunning view. At the Senshu Product Exhibition, held at the same time as the cherry blossom festival, visitors can purchase local specialties.
This is a lesser-known spot we recommend if you want to avoid large crowds during the cherry blossom season.
*5 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri: a local festival featuring danjiri (festival carts or taiko drum floats). It is held every September and has an average attendance of 500,000 people.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
10. Katsuoji Temple: Missed the Blossoms in the City? No Worries!
Photo by Pixta
Katsuoji Temple is located in Minoo City in northern Osaka. Known as a temple that will grant you luck for competitions, you’ll find several kachi-daruma (winning daruma dolls) on the grounds. It is said that shoguns, or military generals, would visit the temple to pray for victory in their battles. This temple has a history of around 1,300 years.
The cherry blossoms at Katsuoji Temple bloom later than in the city due to the high altitude. If you were busy and couldn't view the cherry blossoms at other locations, you can still see enjoy them by coming here.
Various types of cherry blossoms, including weeping sakura, will greet you when you arrive. Around 8,000 cherry blossom trees cover the temple grounds. The vermilion main gate and the pink cherry blossoms energize the area with their beauty.
There is no public transportation available at night, so it would be more reassuring to travel by car or taxi.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Times
Late March - early April.
Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms in Osaka
Photo by Pixta
Did you find a location you want to go to? Please note that the blooming period for cherry blossoms is just one week. In order to enjoy the season, make sure to plan where you want to go and learn about when the season will start!
Remember to use the Osaka Amazing Pass or the Osaka Metro Pass (1 or 2 Days) in order to save on transportation and admission fees.
FAQ
Can you touch cherry blossoms?
Touching cherry blossoms is generally discouraged because the blossoms are delicate and easily damaged. The petals are sensitive and can be harmed by physical contact, particularly if too much pressure is applied. This is why, in many settings, it's advisable to admire the blossoms from a distance and refrain from touching them in order to preserve their beauty for everyone to enjoy.
Do cherry blossoms bring good luck?
In Japan, cherry blossoms, known as sakura, are cherished for their beauty and ephemeral nature, symbolizing the transient nature of life. They are also associated with the concept of mono no aware, which conveys the awareness of impermanence and the bittersweet transience of things. While they are not traditionally considered to bring "good luck" in the sense of bestowing fortune or material blessings, they do hold deep cultural and emotional significance, representing renewal, the arrival of spring, and the beauty of life's fleeting moments. In this way, they are often considered to bring a sense of peace, renewal, and a reminder of life's delicate and fleeting nature.
What do you wear in Japan sakura?
During sakura season (cherry blossom season) in Japan, which typically occurs in late March to early April, many people embrace the festive atmosphere by wearing light and colorful spring clothing. This may include items such as pastel-colored dresses, shirts, or blouses, along with light outerwear such as cardigans or light jackets. Many individuals also choose to dress in traditional Japanese attire such as kimono or yukata, particularly when visiting parks or partaking in hanami (flower viewing) picnics beneath the cherry blossoms. It's important to dress comfortably as people often spend extended periods outdoors enjoying the blossoms.
What makes Osaka so special?
Osaka holds a special allure due to its dynamic blend of cultural, historical, and modern elements. Renowned as the "Kitchen of Japan," the city offers an exceptional culinary experience, boasting a diverse and delectable array of street food and local specialties. Additionally, Osaka's vibrant atmosphere, lively entertainment scene, and numerous festivals draw visitors seeking lively experiences. Its rich historical significance, exemplified by landmarks like Osaka Castle, reflects the city's pivotal role in Japan's past. Furthermore, as a major economic and business hub, Osaka showcases innovation, modern urban development, and a bustling entrepreneurial spirit. Situated in the Kansai region, Osaka's strategic location offers convenient access to nearby cultural and historical gems, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a multifaceted experience.
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