Cherry blossom season in Osaka is a breathtaking spectacle, typically peaking from 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. Popular spots like Osaka Castle Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park boast thousands of cherry trees, creating a picturesque setting for hanami (flower viewing).
Along the Okawa River, visitors can enjoy boat cruises under tunnels of pink blossoms. At night, some locations, such as Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, feature illuminated sakura, adding a magical touch. The fleeting nature of cherry blossoms symbolizes the beauty and transience of life, a theme deeply rooted in Japanese culture. During this season, locals and tourists gather for picnics, enjoying seasonal treats like sakura mochi. The mild spring weather enhances the experience, making Osaka one of Japan’s top cherry blossom destinations.
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 2025.
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 2025
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 in Osaka to Visit Best Sakura Places
Joining a sakura day trip in Osaka can be worth it if you want a hassle-free experience with a well-planned itinerary covering the best cherry blossom spots. Guided tours often include top locations like Osaka Castle Park, Kema Sakuranomiya Park, and Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, ensuring you visit the most scenic places at peak bloom.
A guided trip can be especially beneficial if you’re unfamiliar with the city or want to learn more about cherry blossom traditions and history from a local guide. However, if you prefer a more flexible and relaxed experience, it’s also possible to explore Osaka’s sakura spots on your own using public transport, (check our guide on how to use Japan Rail Pass).
The Osaka Daytime Hanami and Food Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s cherry blossom season away from typical crowded spots. Available from March 25 to April 11, 2025 (excluding Sundays), this 3-hour walking tour explores the historic Karahori district, known for its preserved old Osaka charm. Participants will navigate maze-like backstreets, taste local snacks and beverages, and enjoy a set-menu lunch at a local favorite. The tour culminates in a secluded area where shrines and cherry blossom trees intermingle, providing an authentic hanami experience. An English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing insights into the area’s history and cherry blossom traditions. Please note that hotel pickup, transportation costs, and gratuities are not included, you can reserve spot here.
The Kyoto and Nara 1-Day Bus Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Japan’s cultural heritage, departing from either Osaka or Kyoto. Participants visit four iconic sites: Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nara Park. Find details and reserve spot here.
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka
Osaka has many beautiful cherry blossom (sakura) spots, making it a great place to enjoy hanami (flower viewing) in spring. Below you can find the list of the best locations:
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, and it becomes even more breathtaking during sakura season in late March to early April. The castle, originally built in the 16th century, is surrounded by Osaka Castle Park, which boasts around 3,000 cherry trees, creating a stunning contrast between the historic architecture and delicate pink blossoms.
The park surrounding the castle spans approximately 106 hectares and features expansive lawns, gardens, moats, and groves of cherry trees. One of the best hanami spots in Osaka is Nishinomaru Garden – A paid-entry garden with 600 cherry trees and an excellent view of the castle.
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
- Osaka Castle Guided Walking Tour
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. This historic amusement park, often called Hirapar, has been entertaining visitors for over 100 years and transforms into a sakura wonderland every spring.
The park features about 300 cherry trees, creating a stunning backdrop for roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and other attractions. 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. Unlike Osaka Castle Park or Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Hirakata Park offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer tourists, making it ideal for families and couples.
- 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 (毛馬桜之宮公園) is one of Osaka’s best cherry blossom viewing spots, featuring nearly 5,000 cherry trees stretching along the Okawa River. Located between Osaka Castle and Tenma, this riverside park offers a stunning sakura tunnel
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. The park has spacious green areas where visitors can lay out picnic mats and enjoy seasonal treats under the blooming trees. For a unique experience, boat cruises along the Okawa River allow visitors to admire the blossoms from the water
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. Located in central Osaka, near Tennoji Station, this park offers a peaceful escape with stunning seasonal flowers, historical sites, and cultural attractions.
With over 500 cherry trees, Tennoji Park is an ideal place for a relaxing hanami (flower viewing) experience. This place is particularly popular not only during cherry blossom season in spring but during autumn foliage. The park is home to Tennoji Zoo, Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, and is close to the famous Shitennoji Temple, making it a great stop for sightseeing.
Inside the park you can find Keitakuen Garden – traditional Japanese garden where sakura trees reflected in a tranquil pond.
- 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
