Best Places to See Sakura in Osaka

If you're planning a spring sakura vacation, Osaka is a nice choice with warm weather. The peak sakura season runs from late March to early April, but some areas may still have blooms into May. Here are a few spots recommended for admiring sakura in Osaka:

Recommended Sakura Viewing Spots in Osaka

1. Osaka Castle Park

 Highlights: 

Tenshukaku Tower of Osaka Castle: Tenshukaku Tower of Osaka Castle, or Osaka Castle Museum, stands as a significant historical and cultural heritage site in Japan. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the park and immerse in the antique castle and pink blooms.

Nishinomaru Garden: For those seeking a more intimate place in the park, the renowned Nishinomaru Garden, with approximately 300 sakura trees, is a must-visit. 

 Transportation (from Namba Station): About 18 minutes by Osaka Metro.

 Activities: Osaka Castle Sakura Festival features diverse performances, traditional music, food stalls, and nighttime light shows, during which visitors can enjoy the blossoms.

 Best Viewing Time: Late March to early April.

Sakura in Osaka Castle

2. Osaka Mint Sakura Tunnel

 Highlights: Osaka Mint Bureau is from the Meiji Era (1868-1912), with a coin minting factory and colonial-style office buildings. The Sakura Tunnel stretches about 560m (0.35 miles), lined with 340 to 370 sakura trees. There are 134 to 140 varieties of sakura, nearly a third of all of those in Japan. Visitors can visit both historic buildings and various sakura.

 Transportation (from Namba Station): Take Sennichimae Line to Nihonbashi (Osaka) Station. Then take Sakaisuji Line to Minamimori-machi. Get off here and walk to Osaka Mint Bureau. It takes about 29 minutes for the whole journey.

 Opening Time: Usually in mid-April for about one week. For specific opening time, please refer to the official announcements.

Sakura in Osaka Mint Sakura Tunnel

3. Shitennoji Temple

 Highlights: Shitennoji Temple, founded by Prince Shotoku in 593, is adorned with sakura trees. Gokuraku Jodo Garden is recommended for sakura viewing. It boasts around 100 cherry trees of varieties like Yaezakura, which is notably large, with abundant petals that give them a round and fluffy appearance.  

 Transportation (from Namba Station): Take Sennichimae Line to Yamachi Jibutomi. Then get on Tanimachi Line to Rokumantaicho Station. Walk to Shitennoji Temple from there. It takes about 13min for the whole trip.

 Activities: Marvel at the ancient architecture, peruse artifact exhibitions, delve into Japanese Buddhism culture to experience a blend of history and pink bloom.

 Best Viewing Time: Late March to early April. 

Shitennoji Temple

4. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

 Highlights: Sprawling over 106 hectares, the park boasts a serene pond and a vibrant tapestry of flora, including abundant sakura like Somei Yoshino. Besides, the park offers entertainment from exploring the insect museum to horseback riding and camping.

 Transportation: From Shinsaibashi Station, get on Nagahori Tsurumi Ryokuchi Line to Tsurumi Ryokuchi Station, then walk to Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park at last. The trip takes about 36min in all.

 Viewing Time: Early March to mid-April.

Sakura in Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

5. Kema Sakuranomiya Park

 Highlights: This riverside park boasts over 4,500 sakura trees, lining along the Okawa River for over 4 km (2.5 miles). Along the right bank, a cluster of historical buildings from Meiji Period (1868-1912) stands, including the Mint Bureau and the Spring Currency Pavilion, offering a glimpse into the past.

 Transportation (from Namba Station): Get on Sennichimae Line and get off at Yamachi Jibutomi Station. Then take Tanimachi Line to Tenmabashi Station. Finally walk to Kema Sakuranomiya Park. In total, it takes approximately 19 minutes.

 Activities: To admire sakura, tourists can walk or jog along Okawa River Walk in the park, paddle a canoe, or enjoy Japanese food on a yakatabune (a traditional houseboat). The park also hosts outdoor stalls and cultural events like sakura light displays for visitors.

 Best Viewing Time: Late March to early April. 

Sakura in Kema Sakuranomiya Park

6. Expo'70 Commemorative Park

 Highlights: The park showcases over 5,500 sakura trees, guiding visitors through a journey of sakura and Japanese culture. The Tower of the Sun is the symbol of the park. As its golden visage against the pink blossoms, shutterbugs are attracted to capture the beauty.

 Transportation (from Namba Station): Take Midosuji Line to Senri Chuo Station and take Osaka Monorail to Senribanpakukoen Station. Then walk to the park. It takes about 49 minutes.

 Viewing Time: Late March to early April.

Sakura in Expo'70 Commemorative Park

7. Suminoe Park

 Highlights: Suminoe Park, with abundant varieties of sakura gradually taking over from February through April, ensures a long stunning visual treat for visitors.

 Transportation (from Namba Station): Take Midosuji Line to Daikokucho Station and get on Yotsubashi Line to Suminoe Park Station. Then walk to the park. It takes about 22min.

 Activities: The park offers sakura viewing areas and recreational facilities like BBQ plazas, where visitors can indulge in delicious cuisine while enjoying the blossoms. 

 Viewing Time: Early February to Early April

Sakura in Suminoe Park

Packing List for a Sakura Trip in Osaka

 Clothing: Bring light jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and trousers for the mild but varying temperatures.

 Footwear: Athletic shoes or casual flats are perfect for walking and exploring.

 Picnic Essentials: A picnic blanket or folding chair lets you enjoy meals under sakura.

 Allergy Precautions: If you're sensitive to pollen, pack some allergy medication.

 Rain Gear: Spring weather can be unpredictable. Carry a small umbrella or raincoat, or buy one at a convenience store if needed.

Selfie under Sakura