【2025】Events in Osaka During March, April, and May: Cherry Blossom and Plum Blossom Viewing and More

Spring in Osaka is a season when cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, turning parks and riverbanks into vibrant shades of pink. Alongside these blossoms, the city is adorned with various beautiful flowers, creating a colorful and cheerful atmosphere. During this time, Osaka hosts a wide range of lively events and traditional festivities that captivate both tourists and locals alike. From hanami (flower viewing) at famous cherry blossom spots to festivals celebrating Japanese culture, there are plenty of events to enjoy the arrival of spring. This article highlights some of the must-see events to make the most of your springtime in Osaka.

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What is the average temperature in Osaka in March, April, and May? What kind of clothes do you recommend for spring?

*Source: Monthly average temperatures (°C) in Osaka Prefecture.

Spring in Osaka gradually warms up from March to May, allowing you to experience the transition of seasons. In March, the weather still holds a chill, with average temperatures around 10°C. Mornings and evenings can be quite cold, although sunny days might feel slightly warmer. By April, the average temperature rises to around 15°C, bringing more pleasant and comfortable days, though cooler mornings and nights still persist. By May, average temperatures reach around 20°C, and daytime warmth often makes it comfortable to wear lighter clothing. However, typical springtime fluctuations in temperature mean you’ll need to adjust your clothing between daytime and nighttime.

For March, consider wearing a light knit or long-sleeve shirt topped with a trench coat or a lightweight jacket. In April, as the days become warmer, cardigans or thin blousons are ideal, allowing for easy layering to adapt to changing temperatures. By May, short-sleeve shirts or blouses paired with a light jacket or cardigan will keep you comfortable. To handle cooler mornings and evenings, carrying a scarf or light wrap can be useful. Spring in Osaka is an excellent time for hanami and sightseeing, so it’s best to prioritize comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing to fully enjoy your trip.

Osaka Castle Plum Grove 2025

Osaka Castle Plum Grove is one of Kansai's premier spots for plum blossoms, featuring approximately 105 varieties and 1,245 trees.

The early-blooming varieties start to blossom in late December, while the mid-season varieties reach their peak in mid-February. Late-blooming varieties can be enjoyed until mid-March, offering a diverse range of plum blossoms throughout the season. Popular varieties include Shirakaga, Ryokugaku, and Nanko. Each year, a specific variety is highlighted as "Plum of the Year," adding an extra touch of excitement for visitors.

• Address: 1-1 Osaka Castle, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
• Access: About a 5-minute walk from Temmabashi Station on the Keihan Railway

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Osaka Castle Spring Festival

The "Osaka Castle Spring Festival" is a yearly event held in conjunction with the blooming of plums and cherry blossoms. During the festival, the main tower of Osaka Castle is illuminated in pink, and the Nishinomaru Garden hosts nighttime cherry blossom viewings, offering a magical experience. A special barbecue area is set up for a limited time, allowing families and friends to enjoy meals together. Additionally, special access to historical landmarks such as the Important Cultural Properties of Tamon Yagura and Sengan Yagura is provided, offering visitors a rare chance to explore the interiors of these historic buildings.

• Event Period: Late March to around April 15
• Address: 1-1 Osaka Castle, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
• Access: About a 5-minute walk from Temmabashi Station on the Keihan Railway

Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing Cruise

The Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing Cruise offers a unique opportunity to enjoy both Osaka Castle and cherry blossoms from the water. The cruise boat navigates through the Okawa River and inner moat, providing stunning views of cherry blossom-lined paths and the majestic Osaka Castle. Daytime cruises showcase the vibrant contrast between blue skies and cherry blossoms, while evening cruises feature the enchanting sight of illuminated night blossoms. Duration and pricing vary depending on the course, so advance reservations are recommended.

Aqua-Liner Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing Cruise

• Departure Point: Osaka Castle Port Water Bus Terminal (2 Osaka Castle, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)
• Access: About a 3-minute walk from JR Osaka Castle Park Station

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Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Walkway

The Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Walkway is a hallmark of Osaka's spring, showcasing around 141 varieties and 340 cherry blossom trees. Visitors can stroll through a one-way path, enjoying the diverse blossoms up close. This event is particularly special because it opens the Mint Bureau grounds, which are usually off-limits to the public. At night, the trees are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere distinct from the daytime. The event typically draws large crowds, so it is recommended to allow ample time for your visit.

Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Walkway

• Address: 1-1-79 Tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka City
• Access: About a 15-minute walk from Tenmabashi Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line
• Event Period: Typically one week in early April
• Hours: Weekdays 10:00 AM–7:30 PM, weekends 9:00 AM–7:30 PM

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Koinobori Festa 1000

"Koinobori Festa 1000" is a festival held at Akutagawa Sakura-zutsumi Park in Takatsuki City, where around 1,000 carp streamers are displayed against the blue sky. The streamers are contributed by local residents, fostering a sense of community and regional pride. During the event, visitors can enjoy food stalls selling local specialties, as well as stage performances and other activities. The park also features scenic walking paths, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll while admiring the vibrant streamers and fresh greenery.

Koinobori Festa 1000

• Event Period: Late April to May 5 (Children’s Day)
• Address: Akutagawa Sakura-zutsumi Park, Seifukuji-cho 12, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture
• Access: About an 8-minute walk from the "Seifukuji" bus stop, reachable via a Takatsuki City bus from JR Takatsuki Station (bound for Kansai University)

Nakanoshima Rose Garden: Best Viewing Time

The Nakanoshima Rose Garden is located within Nakanoshima Park in Kita-ku, Osaka City, featuring approximately 310 varieties and 3,700 rose bushes.

The roses typically bloom from mid to late May, filling the park with vibrant colors and a festive atmosphere. The garden is divided into three sections: "Rose Garden," "Rose Path," and "Rose Square," each offering a unique perspective and charm. Adjacent to the garden are historic landmarks such as the Osaka City Central Public Hall and Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library, providing a picturesque blend of floral beauty and architectural elegance. The garden is free to enter and open year-round, making it a convenient and accessible destination.

Nakanoshima Rose Garden

• Address: 1-1 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka City
• Access: About a 3-minute walk from Yodoyabashi Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Keihan Electric Railway
• Best Viewing Time: Mid to late May

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Utsubo Park Rose Festival

The "Utsubo Park Rose Festival" is an annual event held every May at Utsubo Park, located in Nishi-ku, Osaka City.

The park’s rose garden features a wide variety of roses that come into full bloom in May, showcasing a vibrant palette of colors. During the festival, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as music concerts, markets, and cafes. A highlight is the Rose Garden Concert, where local artists perform live, blending the enchanting aroma of roses with beautiful melodies for a truly luxurious experience. In 2024, the festival introduced its theme song, "Walking Through the Rose City With You," adding extra excitement to the event. Admission is free, making it a popular spot for people to escape the city's hustle and enjoy a serene, rejuvenating atmosphere.

Utsubo Park Rose Festival

• Event Dates: Mid-May (weekend)
• Address: 1-9 Utsubohonmachi, Nishi-ku, Osaka City
• Access: About a 5-minute walk from Honmachi Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line

Shirokita Iris Garden

The Shirokita Iris Garden, located within Shirokita Park in Asahi-ku, Osaka City, is Kansai’s first strolling-style iris garden, established in 1964. It features approximately 250 varieties and 13,000 iris plants from Edo, Ise, and Higo varieties, which typically bloom from late May to early June. The garden is designed in a strolling style, allowing visitors to enjoy the seasonal beauty of the irises while leisurely exploring the grounds.

Shirokita Iris Garden

• Address: 3-29 Ikue, Asahi-ku, Osaka City

• Access: Take City Bus Route 34 from JR Osaka Station toward Moriguchi Shako-mae and get off at "Shirokita Koen-mae"
• Admission Fee: ¥200 for adults; free for children under middle school age and Osaka City residents aged 65 and older
• Open Period: Late May to mid-June
• Hours: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)

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