Wondering where to see cherry blossoms in Osaka? As one of Japan's biggest, brightest, and tastiest cities, it's no surprise that Osaka stands out as one of the top places to visit during the sakura season.
Visiting another major Japanese city? See the best places to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto and Tokyo.
When is cherry blossom season in Osaka?
Every year, the Japan Meteorological Corporation releases a cherry blossom forecast. This forecast helps hundreds of residents and tourists plan their trips to ensure they get to see the gorgeous sakura. According to the recently released 2024 cherry blossom forecast, Osaka's cherry trees will start to blossom around the end of March, reaching full bloom around April 3.
Keep in mind that this forecast is updated in February and sometimes again in early March, so be sure to check in again to know exactly when to expect Osaka's sakura.
Where to see cherry blossoms in Osaka
There is no shortage of prime cherry blossom-watching spots, and some of the most popular places can fill up fast! While they may be famous for a reason, there are still plenty of under-the-radar spots to relax under the Osaka cherry blossoms, too.
- Osaka Castle
- Okawa River
- Japan/Osaka Mint
- Kema Sakuranomiya Park
- Expo '70 Commemorative Park
- Chishima Park & Mt. Showa
- Satsukiyama Park
- Daisen Park
- Sumiyoshi Park
- Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Expo ‘90 Park
Read on to get the lowdown on where to see cherry blossoms in Osaka to make the most of the Japan sakura season, from the most well-known to obscure corners.
1. Osaka Castle
Osaka's most popular place for cherry blossoms is undoubtedly Osaka Castle. This is Osaka's quintessential Japan sakura season viewing spot, with over 3,000 cherry trees, an annual illumination festival, and the iconic castle as the grand backdrop. It's the buzzing heart of Osaka's sakura scene, but don't worry! There are plenty of quiet nooks to have a hanami among the vast grounds if crowds aren't your thing. The park alone is 100 hectares, which means it's enormous, and plenty of spaces offer prime cherry and castle views.
2. Okawa River
There's a floral paradise along Osaka's Okawa River, with nearly 5,000 cherry trees painting the view. The best part is that the river runs through central Osaka between the renowned Kema Sakuranomiya Park and Japan Mint Headquarters, so a cruise or walk along the river between the two spots is a perfect day to admire the Osaka cherry blossoms.
3. Japan/Osaka Mint
On one side of the Okawa River, the elusive Osaka Mint Bureau is usually closed to the public but unlocked during the Cherry Blossom Passage week. This is where people come to admire the spectacular Yaezakura, a double-layered cherry blossom, among 130 rare varieties. Over the years, the Osaka Mint has become the spot for sakura viewing; now, reservations are needed to visit!
4. Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Quality meets quantity along the Okawa River, where cherry blossom trees line the river for several kilometers. Stroll the sakura-lined riverside promenade, take a boat tour underneath the blossoms, or claim a picnic spot on the expansive lawns. The park is an ideal resting spot after touring the Osaka Mint and Okawa River. Then, the flowers come to life at night when lit up, adding a whole new vibe to the park.
5. Expo' 70 Commemorative Park
Step into the time-traveling wonder of Expo '70 Commemorative Park, home to the iconic Tower of the Sun and flanked by over 5,500 cherry blossom trees. The expansive park becomes awash in hues of pink at this top-tier hanami spot. If you're willing to trek out of the city's core, you'll find the ultimate area for a springtime rendezvous here with a nearby shopping mall and Japan's biggest Ferris wheel.
6. Chishima Park and Mt. Showa
Rise above the ordinary at Mt. Showa, in Chishima Park, Osaka's best-kept secret! A short trek from Taisho Station, this artificial mountain is a 33 meters-tall spectacle offering a panoramic view of mountains, the bay, and the Osaka cityscape below. The mountain has five hills, each a cozy corner with all kinds of nature on display, including an impressive array of cherry blossom trees. You'll find a few different varieties, including the park's namesake blossoms and weeping sakura trees that'll leave visitors in awe.
7. Satsukiyama Park
Go where the locals go to escape the city buzz and bask among over 35,000 cherry blossom trees at Satsukiyama Park. If relaxing isn't your thing, explore five hiking courses, reach new heights at the observation tower, and soak in the Osaka plain's breathtaking panorama. There's even a botanical garden and a zoo! The year's highlight is the cherry blossom festival in April, well worth making the trek to Ikeda, Osaka for. And as a bonus, indulge your noodle cravings at the nearby Cup Noodles Museum.
8. Daisen Park
Daisen Park is where history meets a burst of pink. Nestled between the colossal tombs of Emperors Nintoku and Richu, this vast park offers 1,000 cherry trees in 50 varieties. The cherry blossom promenade is the ticket to a pink spectacle against lush lawns that beg for Insta-worthy shots. Adjacent to the World Heritage Mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku, Daisen Park unfolds a scenic canvas of ponds, open lawns, and a Japanese garden for a complete cultural experience. Ranked one of Japan's Top 100 Historical Parks, Daisen offers a day-long adventure playground for all ages.
9. Sumiyoshi Park
Sumiyoshi Park is Osaka's oldest oasis, dating back to the 6th year of the Meiji Era. A year-round hub, the park comes alive in spring during the Cherry Blossom Festival, boasting a pond and a sea of Yoshino cherry trees, setting the stage for picturesque picnics and strolls. But what makes the park extra special is that it's next to Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Osaka's oldest and grandest Shinto shrines, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Japan's history and beauty.
10. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Expo ‘90 Park
Ditch the crowds at Osaka Castle or Expo '70 Commemorative Park for the green wonderland of Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, a sprawling 300-acre sanctuary on Osaka's outskirts. You'll find vibrant cherry blossoms and a refreshing retreat with a dazzling array of flowers, from a rose garden to tulips underneath a Dutch windmill. Host to the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Exposition, it's no surprise the diverse grounds offer so much, including a Japanese garden, tea house, and, of course, a canopy of cherry trees.
Go on a cherry blossom food tour in Osaka
The fleeting nature of the beautiful Osaka cherry blossoms makes the sakura season each year even more special. Every spring, gorgeous pink and white flowers flood the country, working their way up along Japan, moving with the warmer weather. It's a beautiful cause for a seasonal celebration, and what better way to welcome spring than a cherry blossom food tour?
Eat and drink seasonal foods as you admire the beautiful blossoms throughout the grounds of Osaka Castle, one of the city's top tourist destinations!
Need we say more? Book a cherry blossom four tour in Osaka.
No matter what your cherry blossom viewing style is - from strolling to picnicking under the trees, Osaka will surely have the perfect place to enjoy prime Japan sakura season!
This blog post was originally written by Chris Loew. It was updated by the byFood team in January 2024.
