Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Osaka
Matthew BaxterIn Osaka for the cherry blossom season this year? While Osaka may not have as many parks or shrines as Kyoto or Tokyo where you can enjoy the Sakura season, it still has plenty of spots. As with most Japanese cities, you will also be able to see random cherry blossom trees all across the city as you travel around. Here are some highlights to help you plan your travels (note all are FREE apart from entry to the castle):
Osaka Castle
Osaka Mint Bureau
Cherry blossom trees line this lovely 560 metre long road, creating what the locals call a ‘pink tunnel’. Many consider it the best spot in Osaka, with over 100 species of sakura trees and a fun festival atmosphere.
When: Around Mid April
Where: 10 minute walk from Temmabashi Station, just head north over the bridge
Daisen Park
Huge park with more than 1000 cherry blossom trees. Housing the tombs of Emperor Nintoku and tomb of Emperor Richu, this historic park has all sorts of species and a splendid Japanese rock garden to enjoy. There is also a large green where visitors can site down and eat a cheap bento.
When: Mid March to lake April
Where: Just outside Mozu station
Expo 70 Commemorative Park
When Japan was chosen to host Expo ’70, the world’s largest fair, this park was built to house the grand event. It has now been redesigned, with small forests and gardens. It’s therefore an awesome, yet quiet, place to see the cherry blossoms. The 5000 plus sakura trees are also lit up at night.
When: Late March to mid April
Where: Banpaku Kinen Koen Station (Osaka Monorail)
Minoo Park
Get out of the big city in Minoo, which has a good selection of sakura trees up its mountain paths. The main temple, Ryuanji Temple, and the waterfall at the end also offer some great spots. Also a great spot in the autumn season.
When: Late March to mid April
