Home > Where to See Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) in Osaka, Japan

Where to See Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) in Osaka, Japan

As part of our list of resources for visitors to Osaka City, below we provide some detail about Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) in Osaka, Japan.

Osaka Cherry Blossoms Season

When is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka?
Most Popular Cherry Blossoms Spots in Osaka
— Osaka Castle Park
— Osaka Mint Bureau
— Kema Sakuranomiya Park (has a cherry blossom festival)
— Ogimachi Park (has a cherry blossom festival)
— Expo 70 Commemorative Park (has a cherry blossom festival)
— Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
— Satsukiyama Park
— Nagai Park
— Tenpozan Park
— Yahataya Park
— Suminoe Park
— Osaka Tenmagu Shrine
— Tosa Inari Shrine
— Shitennoji Temple
Cherry Blossoms in Other Places in Japan

See our recommendations for sakura hanami in Osaka below.

Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka

The best time to see cherry blossoms in Osaka is usually from late March to early April; the best week for Osaka cherry blossom flowers is from March 28 to April 3, which is when the sakura trees usually reach full bloom. During this period, the cherry blossom trees in the parks are covered with beautiful pink flowers.

Due to changes in the weather, the exact blooming period can change a bit each year. Generally speaking, from around March 20 to April 10 is generally a good time to visit if you want to see cherry blossoms in Osaka.

Most Popular Cherry Blossoms Spots in Osaka

— Osaka Castle Park

Location: 1-1, Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/?lang=en

Osaka Castle Park is one of the most famous places in Japan for cherry blossom viewing (hanami). Every spring, the castle grounds transform into a beautiful pink and white blossoms, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Around the castle, there are about 3,000 cherry trees. When they bloom from late March to early April, many people gather under the trees to enjoy hanami picnics with friends and family. In the evening, the area is often illuminated, allowing visitors to experience nighttime cherry blossom viewing (yozakura).

— Osaka Mint Bureau

Location: 1-79, Temma 1-chome, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.mint.go.jp/eng

Osaka Mint Bureau is known as a coin and currency production site in Osaka. Every spring, it opens its grounds to the public for a short period, creating a highly popular sakura destination.

One of the most famous and easily accessible cherry blossom spots in Osaka city, approximately 300 cherry trees of various varieties bloom along the pathways, creating a stunning tunnel of sakura blossoms. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, take photos, and enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in a unique urban setting.

— Kema Sakuranomiya Park

Location: 1-10 Nakano-cho, Miyakojima-ku, Osaka
Website: https://parksgreenery.city.osaka.lg.jp

Kema Sakuranomiya Park is one of the most popular spots in Osaka for enjoying cherry blossoms in spring. The park stretches along the banks of the Okawa River and is famous for its long rows of blooming cherry trees.

During the cherry blossom season, usually from late March to early April, more than 4,000 cherry trees line the river for about 4 kilometers. The park also hosts an event called Kema Sakuranomiya Cherry Blossom Festival.

— Ogimachi Park

Location: 1-1, Ogimachi, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: https://ogimachipark.com

Ogimachi Park is an urban park located in Kita-ku, Osaka. Surrounded by cultural facilities such as the Kids Plaza Osaka, the park is a popular place for relaxation, community activities, and seasonal events. This park is known for the Ogimachi Cherry Blossom Festival.

It just so happens one of the best places for a burrito in Osaka – Ogimachi Love Burrito – is located next to the park.

— Expo 70 Commemoorative Park

Location: 3 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka
Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/

Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is one of the largest parks in Osaka, and was built on the site of the 1970 World Exposition. Today it is a popular destination for nature, recreation, and seasonal events.

In spring, the park becomes a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with about 5,500 cherry trees blooming from late March to early April. Visitors can walk along the beautiful 200-meter cherry blossom avenue or enjoy traditional hanami picnics.

This park hosts an annual event called Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Sakura Expo, one of many Osaka annual events. The park is a lively place to experience local sakura culture in Osaka.

— Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

Location: 2-163, Ryokuchikoen, Tsurumi-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.tsurumi-ryokuchi.jp

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park is a large public park in Osaka, created on the site of the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Exposition. The park is known for its wide green spaces, seasonal flowers, and international gardens.

In spring, many cherry trees bloom across the park, making it a pleasant place for hanami picnics and relaxing walks under the blossoms. One of the park’s main landmarks is the Flower Expo Memorial Park Windmill, a Dutch-style windmill surrounded by colorful flower fields.

— Satsukiyama Park

Location: 2-5-33 Ayaha, Ikeda City, Osaka
Website: https://www.ikedashi-kanko.jp/spot/recommend-spot01

Satsukiyama Park is a scenic hillside park located in southern Osaka’s Ikeda City.

Satsukiyama Park is popular for sakura viewing, as cherry trees bloom across the hillside. Visitors often enjoy hanami picnics, leisurely walks, and photography under the flowering trees.

— Nagai Park

Location: 1 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi-ku, Osaka
Website: https://nagaipark.com

Nagai Park is a large public park in southern Osaka known for its sports facilities, gardens, and spacious green areas. The park is home to the famous Yanmar Stadium Nagai, as well as walking paths and open lawns where visitors can relax and enjoy nature.

In spring, cherry trees bloom throughout the park, creating a pleasant atmosphere for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Many visitors gather under the blossoms to enjoy picnics or take peaceful walks along the tree-lined paths.

— Tenpozan Park

Location: 3-2 Chikko, Minato-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/minato/page/0000178579.html

Tempozan Park is a small waterfront park, located in Minato-ku, near attractions such as the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel.

In spring, many cherry trees bloom throughout the park, creating a beautiful setting for sakura viewing. From late March to early April, visitors come to enjoy hanami picnics under the blossoms while overlooking the waterfront. The soft pink flowers combined with the seaside scenery create a unique and refreshing atmosphere.

— Yahataya Park

Location: 3-1-40 Tanaka, Minato-Ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.yahataya-park.jp

Yahataya Park is a spacious public park located in Minato-ku, Osaka. The park features open lawns, walking paths, and sports facilities.

In addition to daily leisure activities, Yahataya Park hosts seasonal events and flower displays. Its combination of green spaces and seasonal beauty makes Yahataya Park a favorite destination during sakura season.

— Suminoe Park

Location: 1-1-117, Minamikagaya, Suminoe-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.toshi-kouen.jp/staticpages/index.php/suminoe_top

Suminoe Park is located in Osaka Bay, in the southwestern part of Osaka City. Suminoe is known for its wide open spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities.

In cherry blossom season, the park becomes a popular spot for sakura viewing, with numerous cherry trees lining the riverside and lawns.

— Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Location: 2-1-8, Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is an important Shinto shrine located in the Tenma area in Kita-ku, Osaka. The shrine is well known for hosting the famous Tenjin Festival, one of Japan’s major traditional festivals in Osaka.

In spring, cherry trees around the shrine grounds bloom, creating a calm and beautiful atmosphere. Osaka Tenmangu Shrine offers a peaceful setting where visitors can experience both sakura and traditional Japanese culture in the heart of the city.

— Tosa Inari Shrine

Location: 4-9-7, Kitahorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka
Website: https://osaka-jinjacho.jp/funai_jinja/dai7shibu/nishi-ku/07009tosainarijinja.html

Tosa Inari Shrine is a small Shinto shrine located in Nishi-ku, known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture.

The shrine is surrounded by blooming cherry trees in spring, creating a serene setting for sakura viewing. Visitors can enjoy quiet walks along the pathways lined with soft pink blossoms. Because it is a less popular location, you can also avoid the crowds and enjoy a more private cherry blossom experience.

— Shitennoji Temple

Location: 1-11-18, Shitennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp

Shitennoji Temple is known as the oldest temple in Japan, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku (Shotoku Taishi).

Cherry trees bloom around the temple complex, adding soft pink colors to the traditional buildings and stone paths. The contrast between the delicate sakura blossoms and the five-story pagoda creates a beautiful and calm atmosphere.

Cherry Blossoms in Other Places in Japan

Cherry blossom season in Japan spans three months; the timing of the blooming of the cherry trees in Japan is different in the various cities in Japan.

Japan’s Cherry blossom season actually begins in late January in the southern island of Okinawa. In many years, you can see the cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo first, then see the sakura bloom in Nagoya, all a few days or a week earlier than Osaka.

If you are too late to see the cherry blossoms in Osaka, you can see sakura later in the season, in the northern Japanese cities. For instance, Sakaura season in Sendai is typically in the second week of April. For the last place each season for hanami, you can go to see the cherry blossoms in Sapporo in late April and early May.

The Most Popular Neighborhoods in Osaka

— Kita-ku, Osaka
— Chuo-ku, Osaka
— Naniwa-ku, Osaka
— Nishi-ku, Osaka
— Fukushima-ku, Osaka
— Tennoji-ku, Osaka
— Yodogawa-ku, Osaka
— Minato-ku, Osaka

The Kita-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Osaka/Umeda, Kitashinchi, Ogimachi, Nakazakicho, Nakanoshima, Minamimorimachi, Temna
— Major Train Stations: Osaka/Umeda Station, Ogimachi Station, Nakazakicho Station, Minamimorimachi Station, Tenma Station
— Popular Attractions: Umeda Sky Building, Hep Five Shopping Mall, Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, Ogimachi Park
— Popular Shopping Areas: Osaka/Umeda

Osaka Kita-ku area is known for Umeda, it is where Osaka Station and multiple railway lines meet, making it the city’s main gateway. The Umeda area is packed with offices, hotels, and the best shopping in Osaka (including some of Osaka’s biggest department stores).

Nakazakicho is located ten minutes walk away from Umeda Station, famous for cafes and vintage shops in old houses. And slightly to the south, there is a big park called Ogimachi Park. Further south, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is located in Minamimorimachi area next to Higashi Umeda.

Nakanoshima Island is the home of Nakanoshima Park, a long, narrow park located between the Dojima River and the Tosahori River in central Osaka, connected to the surrounding areas by many bridges. Osaka City Hall and many of the best museums in Osaka (the National Museum of Art, the Osaka Museum and and Nakanoshima Museum of Art) are all located on the island.

The Chuo-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, Americamura, Nipponbashi, Nagahoribashi, Honmachi, Sakaisujihonmashi, Yodoyabashi, Kitahama, Morinomiya, Nishishinsaibashi
— Major Train Stations: Namba Station, Shinsaibashi Station, Nipponbashi Station
— Popular Attractions: Namba Parks Shopping Mall, Osaka Castle, Triangle Park
— Popular Shopping Areas: Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street

The Osaka City Chuo-ku area is a central ward that serves as both a primary business district (with office buildings and banks in Yodoyabashi or Honmachi areas), as well as a top destination for entertainment and shopping in Osaka.

Midosuji is the most famous and important street in Osaka City. It is a wide north–south street that runs through the center of the city, connecting the major downtown districts of Umeda in the north and Namba in the south.
Under the street runs the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, one of the busiest subway lines in Osaka.

Dotonbori is one of the most famous entertainment and tourist districts in Osaka. It is well known for its bright neon lights, large animated billboards, food, and lively nightlife. Located along the Dotonbori River, the area is a major center for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Triangle Park is a small, urban park located in the Amerikamura area of Osaka. Despite its small size, it is an important meeting place and cultural symbol of Osaka’s youth and street culture.

Kitahama to the north, has historic atmosphere, known for cafes, restaurants, and riverside spots, focus more on dining and culture than shopping.

Osaka Castle is located in Morinomiya area and surrounded by park grounds and stone walls. The park is a popular place for walking, seasonal events, and Osaka cherry-blossom viewing in spring.

The Naniwa-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Namba, Shinimamiya, Shinsekai, Tutenkaku
— Major Train Stations: Namba Station, Shinimamiya Station
— Popular Attractions: Namba Yasaka Shrine, Namba Parks, Edion Arena

In the area to the south of Namba Station, the Naniwa ward in Osaka offers many brand shops, department stores, and cafes. Generally, Naniwa is less tourist-focused, and a more local neighborhood.

You can reach Namba Station directly by train (such as the Nankai Airport Express or Limited Express Rapi:t) without transfers. Namba is one of the most convenient area for access to the Kansai International Airport.

The Nishi-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Awaza, Kujo, Horie, Kitahorie, Minamihorie, Nagahoribashi
— Major Train Stations: Awaza Station, Kujo Station, Nishinagahori Station, Nishiohashi Station
— Popular Attractions: Americamura, Utsubo Park, Kyocera Dome
— Popular Shopping Areas: Kitahorie, Minamihorie, Nishishinsaibashi

Nishi-ku area of Osaka is a district known for mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options.

Immediately adjacent to the west of Chuo-ku, Nishi-ku offers more shopping and cafes. To the north, Utsubo Park is popular place for local events or sports. In the southern part of Nishi-ku the Minammihorie area (to the west of Shinsaibashi) features trendy cafes, boutique shops, and local restaurants.

Nishi Ward is generally less crowded than Chuo-ku.

The Fukushima-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Fukushima, Shinfukushima
— Major Train Stations: Fukushima Station, Shinfukushima Station
— Popular Attractions: Hanshin Sauna, Fukushima Tenmangu Shrine
— Popular Shopping Areas: Aeon style Nodahanshin

Osaka’s Fukushima-ku is located next to Kita-ku. It is known for its relaxed residential atmosphere, mixed with a lively local food and bar scene. The Fukushima area is smaller and quieter than nearby business districts such as Umeda, but it is one of Osaka’s most popular neighborhoods for dining or cafes.

The Tennoji-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Tennoji, Abeno
— Major Train Stations: Tennoji Station, Abeno Station
— Popular Attractions: Abeno Harukas, Tennoji Zoo, Tennoji Park, Shitennoji Temple
— Popular Shopping Areas: Kintetsu Department Store, Mio, Station Plaza, Hoop Shopping Mall, Lucias Shopping Mall, Abeno Q’s Mall

Osaka’s Tennoji-ku is a central ward, one of the most significant urban districts in the southern part of Osaka City. Tennoji-ku is known for its historical landmarks, important transportation facilities, and modern commercial developments.

Tennoji ward serves as a major gateway for both residents and visitors, particularly near Tennoji Station. Tennoji Station connects Tennoji to many other parts of Osaka and the Kansai region.

The district is also recognized for its rich cultural heritage, as it is home to Shitenno-ji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. Shitenno-ji attracts many visitors who are interested in traditional architecture, religious history, and cultural events throughout the year.

In addition, Tennoji area offers modern attractions such as Abeno Harukas, a prominent skyscraper that includes offices, department stores, hotels, and an observation deck from which visitors can enjoy the views of Osaka city.

Furthermore, Tennoji-ku contains large recreational spaces such as Tennoji Park, which provides a relaxing environment for residents and tourists. Within the park, visitors can also find Tennoji Zoo; a well-known zoo that houses a wide variety of animals and serves as a popular destination for families and school groups.

The Yodogawa-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Juso, Shin-Osaka, Nishinakajima
— Major Train Stations: Juso Station, Shinosaka Station, Nishinakajima Station
— Popular Attractions: Yodogawa Riverside Park

Yodogawa-ku in northern Osaka, located on the norther bank of the Yodo River. It is known as an important transportation and residential area, especially Shin‑Osaka Station. The Shin-Osaka Station is one Japan’s main Shinkansen (bullet train) hubs, connecting Osaka with cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

One of the ward’s most famous areas is Juso, known for its lively nightlife, small bars, and classic Osaka street foods such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The area also serves as a major railway junction through Juso Station.

Another highlight is Yodogawa Riverside Park, a long green space popular for seasonal festivals or community events such as Yodogawa Marathon and Walk. Every summer the river area hosts the Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival, one of the largest fireworks displays in Osaka.

The Minato-ku Neighborhood in Osaka

— Major Districts: Bentencho, Osakako, Asashiobashi
— Major Train Stations: Bentencho Station, Osakako Station, Asashiobashi Station, Taisho Station, Cosmo Square Station
— Popular Attractions: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Solaniwa Onsen, Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Legoland Discovery Center

Western Osaka’s Minato-ku is a waterfront ward, located along Osaka Bay. The name “Minato” means “harbor” or “port” , known for tourism attractions, waterfront recreation areas, and entertainment facilities.

One of the ward’s most famous landmarks is Tempozan Harbor Village, which includes the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, and the Legoland Discovery Center Osaka, along with shopping, dining, and waterfront attractions.

Minato-ku is also known for cultural and entertainment attractions such as the Asue Arena Osaka; which hosts concerts, sports competitions, and community events. Solaniwa Onsen is the one of the Osaka’s tattoo-friendly onsen.

List of Osaka Marathons

— Osaka International Women’s Marathon (January)
— Osaka Marathon (February)
— Yodogawa Marathon and Walk (March)
— Relay Marathon at Nagai Park (March)
— Osaka Yodogawa Citizens Marathon (November)

More details on each of these marathon races in Osaka are included below.

Photo Credit: Sankei Shimbun Co., Ltd

Osaka International Women’s Marathon

Date of Event: The end of January
Deadline for registration: First week of December, of the previous year
Entry fee: 15,000 JPY
Website: https://www.osaka-marathon.jp/english/

Osaka International Women’s Marathon (Osaka Kokusai Joshi Marason) is an annual marathon race held in late January in the city of Osaka, Japan. The race is a full marathon, covering the classic distance of 42.195 kilometers. It attracts female runners from Japan and around the world. It is is organized by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations, along with major Japanese media and Osaka City partners.

Osaka Marathon

Date: Late February
Deadline for registration: Late August (general runners), late October (charity runners), of the previous year
Entry fee: 16,000 JPY / 145 USD
Website: https://www.osaka-marathon.com

Osaka Marathon is the largest and most popular marathon in Osaka City, with approximately 30,000 participants. Typically held in February, it attracts runners from Japan and around the world; 10 – 20% of the runners in the Osaka Marathon are international participants.

For more information, see our guide to the Osaka Marathon, where we provide details about deadlines for registration and more.

Relay Marathon at Nagai Park

Date: First week of March
Deadline for registration:
Entry fee: 4,000 JPY (full and half relay marathon)
Website: https://nagairelay.jp

Relay Marathon at Nagai Park in Osaka is a fun, team-based relay race event held in Nagai Park, emphasizing participation and enjoyment. Instead of individual runners covering the full marathon distance themselves, the race is run in relay format, where teammates take turns running laps and pass a tasuki (traditional relay sash) to the next runner. The minimum team size for the Osaka Relay Marathon is four runners (the maximum number of runners on a team is 12).

Yodogawa Marathon and Walk

Date: Late March
Deadline for registration: Mid February
Entry fee: 7,300 JPY (full marathon), 5,800 JPY (half marathon), 2,500 JPY (walk), 1,500 JPY (3km run)
Website: https://www.sanspo-marathon.com/entry/2953/

Osaka’s Yodogawa Marathon and Walk is held along the Yodogawa (Yodo River) in Osaka City. It is a multi-distance running and walking event held in March each year. The race is designed to be inclusive for a wide range of participants from competitive marathon runners to casual walkers, and combines sport, nature, and community fun.

Osaka Yodogawa Citizens Marathon

Date: The first week of November
Deadline for registration: The end of September
Entry fee: 7,800 JPY (full marathon) 6,800 JPY (half marathon) 4,300 JPY (10km marathon)
Website: https://www.osaka42195.com

Osaka Yodogawa Citizens Marathon is a community-focused marathon event held along the Yodogawa (Yodo River) in Osaka, Japan. The marathon event is for local citizens, with an emphasis on participation and completion rather than elite competition. It’s known as a community marathon even that welcomes runners of all ages and abilities from beginners and casual runners to more experienced runners.

Details about the Osaka Marathon

— General Overview of the Osaka Marathon (held in February each year)
— One of Five Marathon Events in Osaka
— What is the Deadline to Register for the Osaka Marathon?
— What is the Fee to Participate in the Osaka Marathon?
— Osaka Marathon Course Through Osaka City
— Who Participates the Osaka Marathon?
— How to Participate the Osaka Marathon

Below we provide information about on the event that may be useful for both spectators and partipants.

Osaka Marathon: General Overview

When: February
Where: The course runs through Osaka City
More Details: osaka-marathon.com

Osaka Marathon is held in February of each year, and is the biggest marathon event in Osaka City. The event is a world class marathon, where top athletes are invited to compete, along with enthusiasts and other competitors from around the world. The marathon is organized by the Osaka Prefectural government, Osaka City, and Osaka Athletics.

Osaka Marathon is a charity marathon and offers three separate courses: Full marathon (42.195 km), short course (7.2 km), and the wheelchair course (720 m).

The Osaka Marathon has a limited number of spots (approximately 30,000 participants). Some of the best marathon runners from around the world are invited to participate. General participants that would like to run in the race, must apply for entry and are selected through a lottery system. Charity runners are admitted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Registration for the event begins several months in advance (see below for more information).

One of Five Marathon Events in Osaka

While the “Osaka Marathon” is the biggest marathon in Osaka, there are actually five annual marathons in Osaka City, offering a variety of formats from competitions to community races.

The five major marathon events in Osaka are: Osaka International Women’s Marathon (January), Osaka Marathon (February), Yodogawa Marathon and Walk (March), Relay Marathon at Nagai Park (March), and Osaka Yodo River Citizens Marathon (November).

See our list of marathons in Osaka for more details on each race.

What is the Deadline to Register for the Osaka Marathon?

The Osaka Marathon is usually held in February, but the registration deadline is several months before the event. For general runners, registration typically opens during the summer months of the previous year, often running from late July through late August. Charity runners can apply until the end of October.

For more information, see the Osaka Marathon official website: osaka-marathon.com

To participate, plan to submit an application for the Osaka Marathon before the deadline.

What is the Fee to Participate in the Osaka Marathon?

The Osaka Marathon entry fee for general runners and charity runners is approximately 16,000 JPY for domestic participants, and around 145 USD for overseas participants (with slightly lower fees for group entries). In addition to the entry fee, runners must make a small mandatory charity donation and pay an administrative handling fee.

Marathon Course Through Osaka City

Full Marathon: The full course of the Osaka Marathon starts at the Osaka Prefectural Office, next to Osaka Castle. The race heads north for about 5 km toward Ogimachi Park. From there, the course continues south toward the Yodo River, passing the Yodobashi area, and follows Midosuji Street north through central Osaka. When the runners reach the Namba area, they turn west toward Kyocera Dome, and run around Minato-ku. After that, the course heads south along Naniwasuji Street. Once the runners reach the 25 km mark, they turn back north along the same street, and continue toward Tennoji Park. As the runners arrive at Oikebashi, they follow Imazato-suji to return to Osaka Castle.

Short Course (Runners): The Osaka Marathon short course starts at the Osaka Prefectural Government Building, and finishes near the Nakanoshima Children’s Book Forest (こども本の森中之島).

Wheelchair Course: The wheelchair course for the Osaka Marathon begins in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Building, passes through the city, and finishes inside Osaka Castle Park.

Who Participates the Osaka Marathon?

With the exception of some invited runners, all participants must apply for entry, and be selected either through a lottery or a first-come-first-serve system; the Osaka Marathon has a limited number of spots (approximately 30,000).

Osaka Marathon allows overseas runners to apply in most categories, particularly in the general and charity runner categories. It is estimated that around 10–20% of participants are from overseas, and the number of foreign runners continues to grow.

In addition to participants, thousands of spectators also turn out to watch the race.

How to Participate the Osaka Marathon

Because the number of participants in the Osaka Marathon is limited to around 30,000 runners, most participants must apply in advance. General runners, including overseas participants, usually enter through an online application during the designated entry period. If the number of applicants exceeds the available spots, participants are selected by a random lottery.

Only runners who are selected may compete in the race. There is no fee required to apply; you only pay if you are selected to participate in the race.

Participants must meet basic eligibility requirements, including age limits, and the ability to finish within the official time limit.

List of Events in Osaka City by Month

— Japanese Food Festival (January)
— Osaka Auto Messe (February)
— Osaka Marathon (February)
— Expo 70 Commemorative Park Plum Festival (February)
— Grand Sumo Tournament (March)
— Osaka Asian Film Festival (March)
— Good Coffee Fest (March)
— Ogimachi Cherry Blossom Festival (March)
— Osaka Flower Carpet (April)
— Tenshiba Fruhlingsfwest (April)
— Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival (May)
— Osaka Comic On (May)
— Nipponbashi Street Festa (May)
— Nishi Umeda Candle Days (June)
— Otaue Rice Planting Festival (June)
— Japan Sake and Shochu Fair (June)
— Senshu Beach Lantern Festival (July)
— Summer Sonic Osaka (August)
— Craft Beer Holiday (October)
— Kinoshita Group Japan Open (October)
— Ramen Expo (November)
— Japan Mobility Show (December)

See our separate list of traditional Japanese festivals in Osaka. More details below.

Japanese Food Festival

Date: Early January
Location: Hanahaku Memorial Park
Website: https://www.tsurumi-ryokuchi.jp

The Japanese Food Festival is held at Hanahaku Memorial Park during the early days of January. The food event offers visitors a chance to experience a wide variety of dishes, live cooking demonstrations, and cultural activities.
The entry fee is free and visitors can enjoy Japanese local food such as ramen and karaage (fried chicken).

Osaka Auto Messe

Date: Early February
Location: Intex Osaka
Website: https://www.automesse.jp

Osaka Auto Messe is a motor show held in Intex Osaka. The event provides variety of customized cars. It is one of the largest big events in the Kansai region, with over 200,000 visitors annually.

Osaka Marathon

Date: The end of February
Location: The course starts near the Osaka Prefectural Government Building and finishes inside Osaka Castle Park
Website: https://www.osaka-marathon.com

Osaka Marathon is the largest and most popular marathon event in Osaka City. It is held in February every year, with approximately 30,000 participants. This international marathon event attracts runners from Japan and around the world.

Expo 70 Commemorative Park Plum Festival

Date: Early February to early March
Location: Expo 70 Commemorative Park
Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/

Expo 70 Commemorative Park Plum Festival is held in early February to mid March when the 600 plum trees are the best to see. There are seasonal food stalls selling umeshu (plum wine), plum sweets, and food during festival weekends.

Grand Sumo Tournament

Date: Early March (for two weeks)
Location: EDION Arena Osaka (Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium)
Website: https://www.sumo.or.jp/En/

Grand Sumo Tournament is one of the six-tournament series events that is held annually around Japan. Tokyo hosts three of these tournaments, and the remaining three are held in Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Grand Sumo Tournament Osaka is held in March in Edion Arena Osaka (Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium) located in the Namba area of Naniwa-ku.

Osaka Asian Film Festival

Date: (see their website)
Location: ABC hall, National Museum of Art
Website: https://oaff.jp/en/

Osaka Asian Film Festival is an annual film festival held in Osaka City. The event attracts creators from various Asian countries and serves as a hub for filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals from overseas. Film submissions come from Asian countries including Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Good Coffee Fest

Date: Mid to late March
Location: 1F Shokusai Terrace (Hanshin Umeda)
Website: https://goodcoffee.me

Good Coffee Fest takes places at Hanshin Umeda store to introduce some of the best coffee shops in Japan. The Good Coffee Fest offers educational workshops and four coffee tasting tickets with mini mugs (approximately 2000 JPY) for visitors to sample diverse brews from multiple vendors.

Ogimachi Cherry Blossom Festival

Date: Late March
Location: Ogimachi Park
Website: https://ogimachipark.com

Ogimachi Cherry Blossom Festival is held at Ogimachi Park for three days when the sakura trees are in full bloom. There is a variety of live entertainment shows perfect for spring, such as Japanese instrument performances and street performances. The cherry blossoms are beautifully illuminated at night.

As a local recommendation: Check at Ogimachi Love Burrito, which is located next to the park.

Osaka Flower Carpet

Date: Late April
Location: Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Website: https://www.city.suita.osaka.jp/shisei/1018880/1028651/1036624/

Osaka Flower Carpet event is held at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. The event is a part of the project for Kansai University students. In this project, students and volunteers use 100,000 tulips to create flower paintings. After the event, the flowers are reused for flower paper and processed into sketchbooks.

Tenshiba Fruhlingsfwest

Date: Late April to Early May
Location: Tennoji Park
Website: https://www.tennojipark.com

Tenshiba Frühlingsfest is a spring festival held at Tenshiba, the open plaza of Tennoji Park in Osaka. The event provides German-style craft beers, casual street food, and a cheerful park atmosphere with music, pop-up stalls, and picnic-style seating.

Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival

Date: Early May
Location: JK’s BIRD
Website: https://www.0726.info

Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival is two-day event held in Takatsuki City, and one of the biggest music events is Japan. Over 3,000 artists perform in 72 different locations, including restaurants, bars, and cafes, in the central district in Takatsuki City.

JOsaka Comic Con

Date: Early May
Location: Intex Osaka
Website: https://osakacomiccon.jp/en/

Osaka Comic Con is a large pop-culture festival and international event held in Osaka Intex in Suminoe-ku, focused on comics, movies, celebrities, cosplay, and entertainment culture. Approximately 60,000 participants join this event during three days.

Nipponbashi Street Festa

Date: Mid May
Location: Denden Town
Website: https://www.nippombashi.jp/festa/

Nipponbashi Street Festa is a big cosplay event and a pop-culture street festival where thousands of people gather to walk, parade, and take photos along the streets of Nipponbashi. The event also includes live performances, booths, and themed activities.

Nishi Umeda Candle Days

Date: Early June and early December
Location: Nishi Umeda Park
Website: https://nishiumeda-candledays.com

Nishi Umeda Candle Days takes place in June and December in Nishi Umeda area of Osaka. Participants display thousands of candles in this candlelight event, lighting up the park. There are live music and workshops activities as well.

Otaue Rice Planting Festival

Date: Mid June
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/

The Otaue Rice Planting Festival (御田植神事) is held at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka. The annual festival is a traditional Shinto rice-planting festival where visitors celebrate and pray for a bountiful rice harvest. Shrine priests, assistants, rice-planting people, and approximately 2,000 visitors come each year to participate and view this event.

Japan Sake and Shochu Fair

Date: Mid June
Location: ATC Hall (Asia-Pacific Trade Center)
Website: https://japansake.or.jp/sake/en/

Japan Sake and Shochu Fair is an event to introduce Japan’s traditional alcoholic beverages especially sake (nihonshu), honkaku shochu, and awamori. It’s organized by the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association, and showcases products, culture, and brewing traditions from breweries and distilleries across Japan.

Senshu Beach Lantern Festival

Date: Early July
Location: Sennnan Long Park
Website: https://www.senshu-beachlantern.com

Senshu Beach Lantern Festival is a summer seaside lantern festival held at Sennan Long Park and Tarui Southern Beach in Sennan. It’s a nighttime event where over a thousand lanterns light up the beach and sky, creating a magical and illuminated summer atmosphere. It is recommended to but lantern tickets online in advance.

Summer Sonic Osaka

Date: Mid August
Location: Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Website: https://www.summersonic.com

Summer Sonic Osaka at Expo ’70 Park is one of Japan’s largest annual summer music festivals, part of the nationwide Summer Sonic series held in Osaka and Tokyo. It’s a massive rock, pop, and electronic music festival that attracts both international and Japanese artists, and tens of thousands of music fans each year.

Craft Beer Holiday

Date: Mid October
Location: Osaka Castle Park
Website: https://www.yte.co.jp/beerholiday/

Craft Beer Holiday is a craft beer festival where breweries from across Japan gather to showcase their beers, including limited releases, and seasonal brews you might not easily find elsewhere. You can enjoy a wide variety of beer styles, food, and fun activities at Osaka Castle Park.

Kinoshita Group Japan Open

Date: Mid October
Location: Utsubo Tennis Center
Website: https://www.japanopentennis.com/atp/en/

Kinoshita Group Japan Open refers to a major professional tennis tournament in Japan (sponsored by Kinoshita Group) where top international women players compete each year in October. The event is for Women’s Professional Tennis in Osaka. The tournament takes place on outdoor hard courts at the Utsubo Tennis Center at Utsubo Park.

Local recommendation: Visitors to the Japan Open Tennis Tournament should visit local bakery Utsubo Bakery Panena (located on the south side of Utsubo Park), which makes amazing local baked goods.

Ramen Expo

Date: Late November to Late December
Location: Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Website: https://ramen-expo.com

Ramen Expo is one of the largest ramen festivals in Kansai area, held at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Suita City. Top ramen shops from all over the country gather in one place so visitors can sample a wide variety of styles in one visit. There is also a voting system where visitors can help choose their favorite ramen for the prize.

Osaka Mobility Show

Date: Early December
Location: Intex Osaka
Website: https://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/event/osaka-motorshow/

Osaka Mobility Show is a major automotive and mobility exhibition held in Osaka that focuses on current and future mobility technology, including cars, bikes, EVs, concept vehicles, and related industry innovations. Approximately 200,000 participants join this event for three days.

Osaka Kansai Airport Ferry to Kobe

— Bay Shuttle Ferry Service Between Kansai International Airport and Kobe Airport
— There are No Direct Flights from Osaka Kansai Airport to Kobe Airport
— How Long Does it Take to Go from Osaka Airport to Kobe Airport by Ferry Boat Service?
— How Much Does it Cost to Take the Bay Shuttle Ferry Service to Kobe?
— How to Buy a ticket for the Bay Shuttle Ferry Service from Osaka Kansai?
— Bay Shuttle Ferry Service is Handicap Accessible

Bay Shuttle Ferry Service Between Kansai International Airport and Kobe Airport?

Most people traveling between Osaka City and Kobe City take Osaka trains systems such as JR Line, Hanshin Line, and Hankyu Line. If you’re traveling from the center of Osaka, trains are faster.

However, you can travel by boat between Osaka Kansai Airport and Kobe Airport, with the high-speed ferry service called Bay Shuttle. This service is the fastest way to travel between the two airports. The time on the ferry boat is about 30 minutes one way, with an extra 20 to 30 minutes to get to downtown Kobe locations – about one hour for the full trip (slightly faster than taking trains).

The high-speed boat runs both ways, to and from Kansai International Airport and Kobe Airport.

There are No Direct Flights from Osaka Kansai Airport to Kobe Airport

The Bay Shuttle ferry in Osaka is useful primarily to visitors that arrive at Osaka Kansai International Airport and want to go directly to Kobe. There are no direct flights from Osaka Kanasi to Kobe Airport. For those visitors that arrive at Kansai, the Bay Shuttle provides the fastest direct route Kobe.

For visitors that are already in Osaka City (which is closer to Kobe than Osaka Kansai Airport), Osaka train service is faster and less expensive.

How Long Does it Take to Go from Osaka Airport to Kobe Airport by Ferry Boat Service?

Taking the Bay Shuttle Ferry from Osaka Kansai Airport to Kobe Airport takes about 30 to 40 minutes, with an addition 20 to 30 minutes to reach central Kobe locations.

Most visitors to Kobe will want to go to Sannomiya Station, or other locations in downtown Kobe (not the airport itself). It takes an addition 20 to 30 minutes from Kobe Airport to downtown Kobe. The total trip via Bay Shuttle ferry from Osaka Kansai Airport to downtown Sannomiya takes about 1 hr 12 minutes. If you take a train from Osaka Kansai to Kobe Sannomiya Station, it takes about 1 hr 30 mins. It is slightly faster to take the ferry from Kansai Airport to downtown Kobe.

Depending on where you are going in Kobe, it may still be faster to take a train instead of the Bay Shuttle.

How Much Does it Cost to Take the Bay Shuttle Ferry Service to from Osaka to Kobe?

A one-way ticket on the Bay Shuttle starts at 1,880 JPY for adults (including the cost to take the separate Portliner train to downtown Kobe).

Round-trip: 3,060 JPY (adults), 1,530 JPY (children)
Round-trip (valid for one day): 2,510 JPY (adults), 1,260 JPY (children)
One-way: 1,880 JPY (adults), 940 JPY (children)
Disability discount tickets: 950 JPY (adults), 480 JPY (children)

If you’re continuing on to downtown Kobe, from Kobe Airport you will also need to pay the fare on the Portliner train from Kobe Airport to Sannomiya (and other downtown destinations). There is a Bay Shuttle ticket that includes the Portliner train ride for the same price.

Make sure to buy a ticket that includes the free Portliner ride.

For comparison, taking trains from Osaka Kansai Airport can be less expensive, but takes longer. Taking the Kansaikuko Line (plus a transfer to Hanshin Line) only costs ~1500 JPY, but takes almost two hours (and will be more uncomfortable if you’re bring luggage). The Nankai Limited Express costs ~1900 JPY, and takes about 1 hr 30 minutes. The JR Haruka Line is the fastest train option, but using JR to go from Osaka Kansai to to Sannomiya will cost about 3500 JPY (both slower and more expensive than using Bay Shuttle).

How to Buy a Ticket for the Bay Shuttle Ferry Service from Osaka Kansai

You can purchase the tickets on the day of travel at the ticket counter or from a ticket machine. At Osaka’s KIX Kansai Airport, there is a Bay Shuttle counter inside Terminal 1.

Buy tickets online for the Bay Shuttle Ferry: https://www.kobe-access.jp/eng/reserve

It is highly recommended to book your ticket for the Bay Shuttle ferry service in advance, online, through the website.

You can make a reservation using your device in advance. After booking, you will receive a QR code that serves as your ticket. If you make a reservation by phone call, you can book from five to 90 days in advance. In this case, payment must be completed at a convenience store.

Bay Shuttle recommends that you register your face ID through your mobile device, saying it will be easier to check in for the Bay Shuttle without showing a ticket. In practice, showing your ticket via QR code is also very easy to do.

From Kobe Airport to Downtown Kobe City

From Kobe Airport to downtown locations such as the Sannomiya Station, it takes an additional 20 minutes on the Portliner train line to reach central Kobe/Sannomiya station and other stops in central Kobe.

Travelling Between Osaka City and Kobe City

While from some locations between Osaka to Kobe the train is a better option, there are specific reasons why some passengers choose to take the Bay Shuttle Ferry service.

If you live in Osaka City such as Chuo-ku near Namba station and around Umeda station in Kita-ku, the train is usually faster.

But if you live on the south side of Osaka, near Kansai International Airport, Osaka the Bay Shuttle Ferry can be faster than the train.

Also, most of the tourists arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) and if you want to go directly to Kobe, the ferry service is the fastest route (there are no flights between Kobe Airport and Kansai International Airport).

Passengers choose this service because it is fast (only takes 30 minutes) because seats can be reserved in advance, because the seats are wider, and more comfortable than other transportation options.

Bay Shuttle Ferry Service is Handicap Accessible

The Bay Shuttle high-speed ferry service from Osaka Kansai Airport is handicap and wheelchair friendly. They provide barrier-free seating and spaces where wheelchairs can be secured and restrooms accessible to wheelchair users. (However, passengers are not allowed to remain seated in their wheelchairs during the voyage.) There is ticket discount service for people with disabilities.

Osaka Festivals

— Temma Tenjin Ebisu Festival (January)
— Toka Ebisu Festival (January)
— Doya Doya Festival (January)
— Setsubun Festival (February)
— Nakanoshima Festival (May)
— Tenjin Festival (June – July)
— Aizen Festival (June – July)
— Umeda Yukata Festival (July)
— Sumiyoshi Festival (July – August)
— Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (September – October)
— Yodogawa Fireworks Festival (October)

See our separate list of the biggest annual events in Osaka. More details below.

Temma Tenjin Ebisu Festival

Date: January 9-11
Location: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Nearest station: Osakatmnmangu Station (JR Loop Line)
Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp

Temma Tenjin Ebisu Festival is held in Osaka Tenmangu, located in Tenjinbashi-suji shopping district. People visit the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine in January to pray for prosperity in the new year. You can buy bamboo lucky charms and drink a cup of hot sweet Japanese sake called amazake to make your body warm.

Toka Ebisu Festival

Date: 9-11 January
Location: Imamiya Ebisu Shrine
Nearest station: Imamiyaebisu Station (Nankai Line)
Website: https://www.imamiya-ebisu.jp/english

Ebisu Toka Festival is held at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine. The festival is sometimes call “Ebessan.” During the Toka Ebisu Festival, visitors wave a ceremonial bamboo branch and pray to the god of commerce for financial success in the new year.

Doya Doya Festival

Date: January 14
Location: Shitennoji Temple
Nearest station: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station (Tanimachi Line, Osaka Metro)
Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp

Osaka Doya Doya Festival is a New Year’s “naked” festival held at Shitennoji Temple on January 14th every year. The original purpose of this unique event was to pray for the harvest. You can see young people are wearing fundoshi, which traditional Japanese underwear.

Setsubun Festival

Date: February 3
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Nearest station: Sumiyoshitaisha Station (Nankai Line)
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/

Setsubun Festival is a traditional Japanese event held the day before the beginning of spring. Going to the festival is part of a tradition to ward off evil spirits for the new season and to bring good luck.

Nakanoshima Festival

Date: May 3-5
Location: Nakanoshima Park
Nearest station: Naniwabashi Station (Keihan Line)
Website: http://www.nakanoshima.net

The Nakanoshima Festival began in 1973 in Nakanoshima Park. It is one of the largest citizen festivals in Japan. It is held every year for three days on May 3-5, at Nakanoshima Park in Kita-ku, Osaka City.

Tenjin Festival

Date: June 24- July 25
Location: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Nearest station: Osakatenmangu Station (JR Loop Line)
Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp

Tenjin Festival is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals. It is held annually in Osaka Tenmangu on July 24-25. The festival celebrates Sugawara no Michizane (a scholar, poet, and politician of the Heian period of Japan).

Aizen Festival

Date: June 30- July 2
Location: Aizendo Shomanin Temple
Nearest station: Shitennojimae-Yuhigaoka Station (Tanimachi Line, Osaka Metro)
Website: https://www.aizendo.com/festival.htm

The Aizen Festival (originally a Buddhist ceremony) was created to pray for health and happiness. The day is dedicated to the Aizendo Shomanin Temple main deity, Aizen Myouou (a guardian deity in Buddhism).

Sumiyoshi Festival

Date: July 31- August 1
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Nearest station: Sumiyoshitaisha Station (Nankai Line)
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/

The Sumiyoshi Festival is held annually on July 31 to August 1, at the historic Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi togyo (portable shrine procession), where several ceremonial shrines are carried by participants across the Yamato River to Sakai City.

Umeda Yukata Festival

Date: July 1st – July 31st
Location: Gran Front Umekita Hiroba
Nearest station: Osaka Station/Umeda Station
Website: https://umeda-connect.jp/yukata/

Umeda Yukata Festival has local performers taking the stage with Bon Odori dancing and live music. It is a fitting opportunity to wear a yukata and take part in the traditional Japanese summer festival.

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival

Date: Mid September and Mid October
Location: Kishiwada Castle
Nearest station: Kishiwada Station (Nankai Line)
Website: https://www.city.kishiwada.lg.jp/site/danjiri/

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Osaka. The festival is a parade involving large wooden shrine floats (danjiri) that are pulled at a high speed by a large team of men. The danjiri paraded around the neighborhoods near the Kishidawa castle.

Yodogawa Fireworks Festival

Date: Mid October
Location: Yodogawa
Nearest station: Juso Station (Hankyu Line)
Website: https://www.yodohanabi.com

Yodogawa Fireworks Festival is one of the largest and most famous summer fireworks events in Osaka City. It used to take place every summer but from 2025, It will be held in October because of Osaka Expo. The festival features around 20,000 fireworks launched over the Yodo river, creating colorful reflections on the water and dramatic views against the Osaka skyline. The event usually lasts about one hour in the evening, drawing crowds from across Japan and overseas.

Ashiya International Academy

Neighborhood Profile: Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-7-1 Teradacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6770-2857
Website: https://www.ashiya-intl.com/en/

Ebisu Japansese School

Neighborhood Profile: Higashinari-ku, Osaka
Address: 3-15-24, Nakamichi, Higashinari-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6147-5294
Website: https://iebisu.com

ECC Kokusai College of Foreign Language

Neighborhood Profile: Kita-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-5-11, Nakazakinishi, Kita-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-4308-5186
Website: https://japan.ecc.ac.jp

First Study Japanese Language School Osaka

Neighborhood Profile: Chuo-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-21-8, Tamatsukuri, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6191-7412
Website: https://firststudy.net/eng/

Human Academy Japanese Language School

Neighborhood Profile: Chuo-ku, Osaka
Address: Tobiei Soken Building 1F, 2-5-9, Kita-Kuboujicho, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-4704-8031
Website: https://hajl.athuman.com/en/

ISI International Study Institute

Neighborhood Profile: Chuo-ku, Osaka
Address: 5F Oak Shinsaibashi Bldg., 3-5-8 Minami-Senba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6732-8255
Website: https://www.isi-education.com

JAC Educational Academy Japanese Language School

Neighborhood Profile: Higashinari-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-1-19, Oimazato Minami, Higashinari-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-4308-5186
Website: https://nihongo-jac.com

Nissei Japanese Language School

Neighborhood Profile: Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Address: 4-15-26, TatsumiKita, Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6747-9797
Website: https://nissei.ac/en/

Osaka International School of Culture and Language

Neighborhood Profile: Kita-ku, Osaka
Address: 11-12, Doshin 2-chome, Kita-ku Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6882-1435
Website: https://en.japanese.ac.jp

Osaka Japanese Language Education Center

Neighborhood Profile: Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Address: 8-3-13 Uehonmachi, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6774-0033
Website: https://www.jasso.go.jp/en/index.html

Osaka Japanese Language Academy

Neighborhood Profile: Hirano-ku, Osaka
Address: 2-2-12, Nagayoshi, Nagaharanishi, Hirano-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 816-6707-2227
Website: https://oja.jp/en/

Osaka Taiyo Language Academy Campus 1

Neighborhood Profile: Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Address: 4-18-16, Tatsuminaka, Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-4306-3479
Website: https://otla.co.jp/?lang=en

Osaka Taiyo Language Academy Campus 2

Neighborhood Profile: Hirano-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-25-25, Kamikita, Hirano-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-4306-5579
Website: https://otla.co.jp/?lang=en

Osaka YMCA Gakuin

Neighborhood Profile: Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Address: 9-52, Minamikawahoricho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6779-8364
Website: https://osakaymca.ac.jp/nihongo/

Seigan Japanese Language School

Neighborhood Profile: Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka
Address: 3-2-9 Nagai, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6606-0238
Website: https://seigan-nihongo.com

Shinai Institute of Languages

Neighborhood Profile: Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Address: 1-2-26, Shojihigashi, Ikuno-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 06-6756-7811
Website: https://www.shin-i.jp

TCJ Japanese Language School Osaka

Neighborhood Profile: Kita-ku, Osaka
Address: 21F, Osaka Umeda Twin Towers North, 8-1 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka
Phone Number: 03-3354-5051
Website: https://tcj-education.com

Osaka Onsen and Hot Springs

— What is the Difference Between Onsen and Sento?
— Rules for Onsen/Sento in Osaka, Japan
— Traditional Onsen in Osaka (that do not allow tattoos)
— Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Osaka (okay with or without tattoos)

Below we share some guidelines for onsen, and a list of onsen and sento in Osaka (natural hot springs, man-made spas, and hotel onsen).

What is the Difference Between Onsen and Sento?

Many visitors to Osaka want to try the famous hot baths that are part of Japanese culture. While many people call the entire category of hot springs in Japan “onsen,” onsen and sento are not exactly the same (and may be used by different types of visitors).

An onsen is a hot spring in Japan that uses naturally hot, mineral-rich, spring water. There are two kinds of onsen; one is tennenn onsen (which is in a natural location/setting), and the second is jinko onsen (which is in a man-made location/setting). Hot springs in Osaka that call themselves “onsen” can be a good choice for tourists and visitors.

A sento is a public bath in Japan that (typically) uses heated tap water (not mineral water). Sento are a common feature in many neighborhoods in Japan. Some local, neighborhood sento are not suitable for foreign visitors. In the list below, we only included larger sento, where foreigners and tourists are more likely to have a good experience.

Rules for Onsen/Sento in Osaka, Japan

There are certain customs, expectations, and rules you should follow at Osaka onsen. At most onsen in Japan you should expect:

— Full nudity (you can’t wear any clothing in the water)
— No tattoos allowed (see our list of Osaka tattoo-friendly onsen below)
— Shower first before using the baths
— Leave the towel off to the side of the bath (don’t bring your wash cloth into the water)

Traditional Onsen in Osaka

Originally, onsen in Japan were all natural, with hot water coming up from the earth. In modern Japan, many onsen include hot public baths, but the water is not coming from a natural hot source. Both experiences are very nice, and relaxing. Of the 25,000 onsen in Japan, only 3,000 use natural water; about 10% of onsen use an all-natural source of water.

For each of our listings below, we state the source of water (naturally occurring, or created by man).

Naniwanoyu

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Address: 1-7-31, Nagaranishi, Kita-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line and Hankyu Line Tenjinnashisuji 6-chome Station
— Admission fee: 900-1,000 JPY (Adults), 450 JPY (Children)
— Website: https://naniwanoyu.com

Naniwanoyu is a facility that has a natural hot spring (natrium chloride hydrogen carbonate spring), a sauna, a relaxation area, and a dining space.

Spa World Hotel & Resort

— Facilities: Day-use onsen / Hotel onsen
— Address: 3-4-24, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line Dobutsuenmae Station
— Admission fee: 1,500 JPY (Adults), 1,000-1,200 JPY (Children)
— Website: https://www.spaworld.co.jp/english/

Spa World Hotel & Resort is located in Naniwa-ku, Osaka. It is a hotel where you can stay enjoy the onsen, sauna, and swimming pool.

Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Address: 5-9-31, Torishima, Konohana-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Hanshin Line Denpo Station
— Admission fee: 750-850 JPY (Adults), 400-450 JPY (Children)
— Website: https://www.onsen19.com

Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu is a 100% natural hot spring, located about 10 minutes away from Universal Studio Japan. Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu provides a free shuttle bus (see their website for pickup locations).

Onsen Mangetsu

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Address: 1-12-29, Komatsu, Higashiyodogawa-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Hankyu Line Kamishinjo Station
— Admission fee: 770-870 JPY (Adults), 300-350 JPY (Children)
— Website: http://www.onsen-mangetsu.jp

Onsen Mangetsu is typical Japanese sento located in Higashiyodogawa-ku, Osaka, providing a natural hot spring, an open-air bath, and a sauna.

Daitoyo Sauna & Spa Capsule Hotel

— Facilities: Hotel onsen
— Address: 2-1-9, Nalazakinishi, Kita-ku, Kanko building Daitoyo B1F.
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line Nakazakicho Station
— Admission fee: 2,500-2,900 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://www.daitoyo.co.jp/spa/enjoy/

Daitoyo Sauna & Spa Capsule Hotel is a combination of both an onsen and a capsule hotel. Daitoyo has a spa and sauna on the 4F. There is a woman-only space on 2F. The capsule hotel on the 3F and 7F.

Hinatano Yu Osaka Universal Bayside

— Facilities: Hotel onsen
— Address: 3-2-27, Kasugaide Minami, Konohana-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: JR Line Ajikawaguchi Station
— Admission fee: 900-1,400 JPY (Adults), 500-600 (Children)
— Website: https://www.hinatanoyu.com/osaka-universal-bayside/

Hinatano Yu is on the 14F of The Rise Osaka hotel, located in Konohana-ku. They offer massage services, a relaxation area, and a nice restaurant. You can enjoy BBQ on the rooftop.

Spa Suminoe

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Address: 1-1-82, Izumi, Suminoe-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro subway Line Suminoekoen Station
— Admission fee: 800-900 JPY (Adults), 400-450 (Children)
— Website: https://spasuminoe.jp

Spa Suminoe is located in Suminoe-ku, Osaka. You can enjoy a carbonated spring, and an air-open bath in the forest where you can feel the changing seasons.

Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Osaka

The option to visit Osaka onsen that are tattoo-friendly is increasingly common. At some of these locations, the tattoos are required to be covered or hidden with cover-up stickers. In several of the examples below, tattoos are allowed with no restrictions.

Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Cover up required (waterproof cover-ups available at reception)
— Address: 5-54, Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Gran Green Osaka South Building 3,4F, Osaka
— Nearest station: JR Line, Osaka Metro Subway Line, Hankyu Line, and Hanshin Line Osaka/Umeda Station
— Admission fee: 2,900-3,400 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://umekita-onsen.jp

Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park is in Gran Green Building in Kita-ku, Umeda. It is a big facility that has a sauna, a gym, swimming pools, and a restaurant. They also offer lessons such as yoga, zumba, and other exercise classes.

REF Kansai Airport Izumisano Vessel Hotels

— Facilities: Hotel onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Cover up required (waterproof cover-ups available at reception)
— Address: 3-11-21, Uemachi, Izumisano City, Osaka
— Nearest station: Nankai Line Izumisano Station
— Website: https://www.vessel-hotel.jp/ref/izumisano/

REF Kansai Airport Izumisano Vessel Hotels is a hotel, located near Kansai International Airport. They offer nice onsen and sauna facilities inside the hotel; convenient for people who use the airport.

Irifune Onsen

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 1-6-3, Haginochaya, Nishinari-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: JR Line and Nankai Line Shinimamiya Station
— Admission fee: 500-700 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://irihune.co.jp

Irifune Onsen is one of the tattoo-friendly onsen in Nishinari-ku, Osaka. They also offer free wifi and USB cable plug-ins so the rest area can be used as a co-working space. They manage a business hotel next to the onsen.

Kaneyoshi Ryokan Osaka

— Facilities: Hotel onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 3-2, Soemoncho, Chuo-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line and Kintetsu Line Nipponbashi Station
— Website: https://kaneyosi.jp

Kaneyoshi Ryokan Osaka is located in the Dotonbori area in Chuo-ku, Osaka. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese experiences, wearing yukata, and viewing the Dotonbori river during their stay. They offer co-working spaces as well.

Utopia Shiratama Hot Spring

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 2-7-36, Gamo, Joto-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: JR Line, Osaka Metro Subway Line, and Keihan Line Kyobashi Station or Osama Metro Subway Line Gamo 4-chome Station
— Admission fee: 600 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://utopia-shiratama.com

Utopia Shiratama Hot Spring is a tattoo-friendly onsen in Joto-ku, Osaka. It is a traditional onsen opened in 1963.

Dream Public Bath Goshiki

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 3-24-10, Shonaisakaemachi, Toyonaka City, Osaka
— Nearest station: Hankyu Line Shonai Station
— Admission fee: 600 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://goshiki.co.jp

Dream Public Bath Goshiki is located in Toyonaka City, to the north of Osaka City. It is Japan’s first 24 hour, 24/7, public bath, and the original “super sento.” It has 11 kinds of baths, including a high-temperature sauna, a steam sauna, and a high-concentration carbonated spring.

Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower

— Facilities: Hotel onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 1-1-27, Dojimahama, Kita-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Keihan Line Oebashi Station
— Website: https://www.candeohotels.com/en/osaka-tower/

Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower is the one of the best hotels located in Kita-ku (near the Umeda area). You can enjoy the city view from a rooftop, open-air bath.

Radium Onsen

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 1-4-13, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line Ebisucho Station
— Admission fee: 600 JPY (Adults), 200 JPY (Children)
— Website: https://www.radium.co.jp

Radium Onsen is located in Naniwa-ku, near Tsutenkaku tower. It is tattoo-friendly onsen offering a man-made carbonated spring.

Healthy Onsen Tateba

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Fully tattoo-friendly
— Address: 2-14-19, Sakuragawa, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: Osaka Metro Subway Line and Hanshin Line Sakuragawa station
— Admission fee: 600 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://www.tateba.com

Healthy Onsen Tateba is located in central Osaka, Naniwa-ku. They have an onsen, a sauna, and a tanning salon. Their facility opens is open from 2PM until 5AM in the morning.

Solaniwa Onsen

— Facilities: Day-use onsen
— Tattoo Policy: Cover up required
— Address: 2F Bay Tower North, 1-2-3 Benten, Minato-ku, Osaka
— Nearest station: JR Line and Osaka Metro Subway Line Bentencho Station
— Admission fee: 2,310-3,630 JPY (Adults)
— Website: https://solaniwa.com/en-us/

Solaniwa Onsen is a famous tourist attraction located in Bentencho Station. They offer an onsen, a sauna, a restaurant, and private baths. It is popular to wear yukata and enjoy the relaxing time.

Major Temples and Shrines in Osaka City

There are some nice and famous Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Osaka City, many of them located in Tennoji-ku – which is the south ward from central Osaka, Japan. The most famous shines and temples in in Osaka City are probably Sumiyoshi Taisha, Osaka Tenmangu, or Shitennoji Temple.

Visitors to shines and temples in Japan often like to collect goshuin (御朱印); a stamp on paper, often with Japanese calligraphy, unique to each location.

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Sumiyoshi Taisha is the main shrine for approximately 2,300 Sumiyoshi Shrines in Japan. Sumiyoshi shrines were typically built to pray to kami (god), essentially Shinto spirits, that related to the sea. It is located in the south of Osaka, Sumiyoshi-ku. The Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine is the site of the Otaue Rice Planting Festival, one of many events held in Osaka each year.
Address: 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/

Osaka Tenmangu

Osaka Tenmangu is a Shinto shrine, located in Kita-ku, Osaka. It is famous for the Tenjin Festival, held annually from 24 July to 25 July. A short walk from other popular attractions in Osaka such as shopping in Tenjinbashisuji shopping street.
Address: 2-1-8, Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp

Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple is known for the oldest temple in Japan, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku (Shotoku Taishi), who spread Buddhism throughout Japan. This temple has been rebuilt over the centuries, with the last reconstruction taking place in 1963. Some attractions include a five-story pagoda, Gokuraku-jodo Garden, and the historical Treasure Hall.
Address: 1-11-18, Shitennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Namba Yasaka Shrine is located in central Namba area, Naniwa-ku, Osaka City. It is a popular “power spot” (a place of special importance for prayer) visited by locals, as well as many people from elsewhere in Japan and abroad. One of the most famous features of the shrine is the large, open-mouthed Lion Hall called Shishiden. It is said that the lion’s large mouth swallows evil spirits.
Address: 2-9-19, Motomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
Website: https://nambayasaka.jp

Osaka Castle Hokoku Shrine

Hōkoku Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan. It is one of several Toyokuni shrines built in honor of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (a famous Japanese shogun). It is part of the Osaka Castle Park. There are several kinds of Goshuin (stamps) to be collected.
Address: 2-1, Osaka-jo, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.osaka-hokokujinja.org

Isshin Temple

Isshin Temple, located in Tennoji-ku, is popular for special architecture. It is also said that this temple is home to the remains of millions of Osaka residents’ ancestors; Isshin Temple accepts charnel regardless of any religious sect.
Address: 2-8-69, Ousaka, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.isshinji.or.jp

Ikutama Shrine

Ikutama Shrine was originally built near what is now Osaka Castle. It is said that Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jinmu built this shrine. The honden (main hall) has unique roof structure which connects to the haiden (where visitors pray or pay their respects to the gods of the shrine).
Address: 13-9, Ikutamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Website: https://ikutamajinja.jp

Hozenji Temple

Hozenji Temple was previously located in Kyoto, and moved to the central Osaka Namba in Chuo-ku in 1637. The temple’s main attraction is a statue of the deity Fudo Myoo, which is completely covered in green moss. Visitors splash water on the statue while praying for good luck.
Address: 1-2-16, Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Website: https://houzenji.jp

Tosa Inari Shrine

Tosa Inari Shrine is located in Nishi-ku, Osaka next to Tosa Park. Tosa Inari Shrine welcomes visitors each spring with a stunning display of sakura, numerous cherry blossom trees,
Address: 4-9-7, Kitahorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka
Website: https://osaka-jinjacho.jp/funai_jinja/dai7shibu/nishi-ku/07009tosainarijinja.html

Imamiya Ebisu Temple

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine is located in Naniwa-ku, Osaka. The Toka Ebisu festival (known as “Ebessan”) is held every year from January 9th to 11th at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine.
Address: 1-6-10, Enisunishi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.imamiya-ebisu.jp/english

Aizendo Shomanin Temple

Aizendo Shomanin Templeis a Buddhist temple, located in Tennoji-ku, Osaka. Founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku (Shotoku Taishi), who spread Buddhism throughout Japan.
The Aizen Festival (originally a Buddhist ceremony) is annually held in this temple to pray for health and happiness.
Address: 5-36, Yuhigaoka, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Website: https://www.aizendo.com

Katsuoji Temple

Katsuoji Temple is located in Minoh City, which is north of Osaka City. The temple is known for its hundreds of “Katsu Daruma” (Victory Daruma) dolls placed throughout the grounds. To make a wish, a visitor can; buy a daruma doll, write their goal or request on the doll, and then color-in one eye on the doll.
Address: 2914-1, Aomatani, Minoh City, Osaka
Website: https://katsuo-ji-temple.or.jp/audioguidance/index.php

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Osaka Festivals

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Ashiya International Academy

Ebisu Japansese School

ECC Kokusai College of Foreign Language

First Study Japanese Language School Osaka

Human Academy Japanese Language School

ISI International Study Institute

JAC Educational Academy Japanese Language School

Nissei Japanese Language School

Osaka International School of Culture and Language

Osaka Japanese Language Education Center

Osaka Japanese Language Academy

Osaka Taiyo Language Academy Campus 1

Osaka Taiyo Language Academy Campus 2

Osaka YMCA Gakuin

Seigan Japanese Language School

Shinai Institute of Languages

TCJ Japanese Language School Osaka

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Osaka Onsen and Hot Springs

Naniwanoyu

Spa World Hotel & Resort

Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu

Onsen Mangetsu

Daitoyo Sauna & Spa Capsule Hotel

Hinatano Yu Osaka Universal Bayside

Spa Suminoe

Umekita Onsen Ren Wellbeing Park

REF Kansai Airport Izumisano Vessel Hotels

Irifune Onsen

Kaneyoshi Ryokan Osaka

Utopia Shiratama Hot Spring

Dream Public Bath Goshiki

Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower

Radium Onsen

Healthy Onsen Tateba

Solaniwa Onsen

See Also:

Major Temples and Shrines in Osaka City

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Osaka Tenmangu

Shitennoji Temple

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Osaka Castle Hokoku Shrine

Isshin Temple

Ikutama Shrine

Hozenji Temple

Tosa Inari Shrine

Imamiya Ebisu Temple

Aizendo Shomanin Temple

Katsuoji Temple

See Also: