The Sakura season in Osaka typically occurs around late March to early April, although the exact timing can vary slightly from year to year depending on weather conditions. During this time, the cherry blossoms bloom all over the city.
Many parks, gardens, and streets in Osaka, such as Osaka Castle Park, Kema Sakuranomiya Park, and along the Okawa River, are popular spots for parties and gatherings.
We’ve tried to create a guide on cherry blossoms in Osaka; you can get more details about best spots to see sakura, day tours you can join, as well as sakura season forecast 2024.
You can also check our guide on sakura season in Japan, with the most popular places to visit during cherry blossom throughout the country.
Best time to visit Osaka for sakura season
The best time to visit Osaka for cherry blossoms typically falls between late March and early April. However, the exact timing can vary depending on various factors such as weather conditions, temperatures, and the specific cherry blossom species in bloom. Full bloom is expected to be on the 1st of April. However, it’s always a good idea to check the cherry blossom forecast closer to your travel dates to ensure you catch them at their peak.
Day Tours to See Sakura Places in Osaka
For more authentic experience consider joining one of the following day tours:
Osaka Daytime Cherry Blossom and Food Tour
Explore Osaka’s hidden gems and main sights just in one day. Starting from Osaka castle to Shinsekai and
Dotonbori, this tour includes some of the key places, click here to book.
Join day tour from Osaka to Kyoto and Nara – click here to make reservation.
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka
In Osaka you can easily find a plethora of locations great for hanami. We’ve tried to create a list of the 10 best places to visit during the sakura season 2024.
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park is one of the most iconic landmarks in Osaka. Situated in the heart of the city, it encompasses the majestic Osaka Castle, which stands as a symbol of Osaka’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The park surrounding the castle spans approximately 106 hectares and features expansive lawns, gardens, moats, and groves of cherry trees. During the cherry blossom season, Osaka Castle Park becomes particularly enchanting as thousands of cherry trees burst into bloom, attracting visitors from near and far to partake in hanami picnics and celebrations.
- Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
- Book Audio Guide: History of Osaka Castle Park
Hirakata Park
Hirakata Park is a popular amusement park located in Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. Situated approximately 15 kilometers east of central Osaka, it is easily accessible by train and car. While it may not be as renowned for its cherry blossoms as some other parks in Osaka, it still has some cherry trees scattered throughout its grounds.
- Address: 1-1 Hirakatakoencho, Hirakata, Osaka 573-0054, Japan
- Working hours: Mon-Fri – 10 am – 5 pm, closed on Thru, Sat and Sun – 10 am – 8 pm
- Click here to buy tickets to Hirakata Amusement Park
Osaka Mint Bureau
The Osaka Mint Bureau is an institution responsible for the production of coins for circulation in Japan. Established in 1871, the Mint Bureau is one of the four mint facilities operated by the Japanese government, alongside those in Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka.
While its primary function is the production and distribution of coins, the Osaka Mint Bureau is also known for its beautiful cherry blossom gardens. Each year, during the cherry blossom season, the bureau opens its gates to the public for a limited time, allowing visitors to admire the stunning cherry blossoms that line its grounds.
The highlight of the Osaka Mint Bureau’s cherry blossom display is the Yoshino cherry trees. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, the Mint Bureau also offers guided tours and exhibitions, providing insights into the history of coin production in Japan and the minting process.
Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Kema Sakuranomiya Park, located in Osaka, is a picturesque riverside park renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms. The park stretches along the Ogawa River and covers approximately 2.5 kilometers of greenery.
In addition to its vibrant cherry blossoms, Kema Sakuranomiya Park offers various recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, including walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and boat cruises along the river.
The park hosts various events and festivals, including Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) that attracts thousands of visitors.
- Address: Nakanocho, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka, 534-0027, Japan
- Admission is free
Tennoji Park
Tennoji Park is one of the oldest parks in the city, offering a serene retreat from the surrounding urban environment. The park is particularly popular during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season. The park is particularly popular during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season.
- Address: 5-55 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063, Japan
- Opening hours: 7 am – 10 pm
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a sprawling park located in Suita, Osaka. It was established to commemorate the International Exposition held in Osaka in 1970, which was a significant event showcasing innovation, technology, and culture from around the world.
It covers a vast area of approximately 260 hectares, making it one of the largest parks in Japan. The park’s layout incorporates various themed zones, including cultural, recreational, and natural areas, providing diverse experiences for visitors. The park’s vast size and diverse landscape provide ample opportunities to admire the cherry blossoms in various settings, from tranquil gardens to open meadows.
- Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan
- Working Hours: closed on Wed, Thru-Tue – 9.30 am – 5 pm
