10 Enchanting Sakura Spots: Springtime Blooms in the Water City of Osaka with Four Seasons Hotel Osaka

Spring in Japan is the season for Hanami, the charming local custom of enjoying and appreciating cherry blossoms. Literally meaning "flower viewing," Hanami brings loved ones together around sakura trees for festive gatherings, picnics or simply soaking up the spectacular scenery. It’s a unique celebration of seasonality, renewal and the fleeting beauty of blossoms – and life.

Sakura viewing goes as far back as 794 CE, when the Imperial Court began hosting banquets under the blossoms. Over the next several hundred years, Hanami steadily gained popularity across Japan, becoming a national passion by the 17th century.

Hanami in Osaka

Come spring, cherry blossoms unfold along parks, shrines, rivers and the iconic Osaka Castle, casting a soft pink spell over the city. Situated in the storied Dojima district, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka offers easy access to several Hanami spots that promise to delight, whether you are in the mood for a serene floral stroll or a picnic under the blossoms. As darkness falls, discover a whole new side to Hanami with Yozakura (Night Sakura), which brings glowing sakura illuminations at temples, shrines and parks around Osaka.

Four Seasons guests can explore 10 spectacular sakura spots around the Hotel, with the closest sight located just a 10-minute walk away. Stop by the Concierge desk to pick up a cherry blossom map before setting out on your Hanami adventure.

1. Nakanoshima Park (10-minute walk). Walk down to this scenic park, nestled between the Dojima River and Tosabori River. Cherry blossoms bloom along the flowing water, interweaving with historical landmarks such as the Central Public Hall and the Nakanoshima Library.

2. Osaka Tenmangu Shrine (15 minutes by taxi / 20 minutes by train). Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship, this Shinto shrine features different varieties of sakura. Experience the beauty of Yoshina and weeping cherry trees, interspersed with historic buildings.

3. Osaka Castle Park (20 minutes by taxi / 40 minutes by train). Home to about 3,000 cherry trees, this expansive park offers breathtaking views of blush-pink blossoms, with the famous castle in the backdrop. Sakura season lasts longer here, thanks to late-blooming Yaezakura cherry trees. For especially picturesque views, head over to Nishinomaru Park, overlooking the castle tower, and the South Outer Moat.

4. Osaka Mint Bureau (15 minutes by taxi / 30 minutes by train). The Osaka Mint Bureau showcases over 130 varieties of cherry trees. During the annual blossom-viewing period, the normally-closed grounds are opened to the public, offering a dazzling display of rare and unique sakura.

5. Kema Sakuranomiya Park (15 minutes by taxi / 40 minutes by train). A popular park with 4,800 cherry trees along the Osaka River. Stroll through the pink blossom tunnel or take in superb views from one of the riverside benches. At night, ethereal illuminations bring out a different aspect of sakura’s splendour.

6. Shitenno-ji Temple (20 minutes by taxi / 35 minutes by train). Make your way to Japan’s first official Buddhist temple for a tranquil Hanami journey. The Gokuraku Jodo Garden (‘Garden of Paradise’) offers a fairytale blend of cherry blossoms, lush vegetation, water features and traditional architecture.

7. Tosa Inari Shrine (15-minutes by taxi / 40 minutes by train). Immerse in a peaceful Hanami experience at this hidden gem, tucked away near the Kizu River. Sakura trees bloom around the shrine grounds, creating a tranquil setting that’s ideal for visitors seeking a reflective atmosphere.

8. Nagai Park (30 minutes by taxi / 50 minutes by train). A large park with over 1,000 cherry trees. Wander through sakura-lined pathways, then lay a blanket by one of the peaceful ponds for a leisurely spring picnic.

9. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park (30 minutes by taxi / 60 minutes by train). Known for its striking Tower of the Sun Museum, this park bursts into springtime bloom with 5,000 cherry trees. Stroll through the sprawling grounds, dotted with sakura tunnels and scenic spots.

10.  Katsuo-ji Temple (45 minutes by taxi / 70 minutes by train). Known for its Daruma dolls, this ‘Temple of Victory’ is located up in the forested hills of Osaka. Take in stunning views of cascading pink blossoms at this historical spot, where believers pray for good luck.

Experience the best of Osaka’s favourite season, with Hanami excursions guided by Four Seasons Hotel Osaka.