Local secrets for sakura viewing in Osaka and Hyogo
With the end of March just around the corner, cherry blossom season is fast approaching. The Japan Meteorological Corp. released its seventh cherry blossom forecast update on March 6 indicating the dates when the much-anticipated flowering of the cherry blossoms will take place.
In the past few years though, the blooming period of the sakura has been erratic, perhaps due to the weather/climate conditions.
By now, Tokyo’s most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing is no secret to anyone. You have Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the public garden in Shinjuku and Shibuya. In Chiyoda Ward, many people head to Chidorigafuchi, a 700-meter walkway along the moat of the Imperial Palace.
A train ride away is Ueno Park where over 1,000 cherry trees are perfect for a scenic stroll or a hanami party (cherry blossom viewing picnic party)—that is if you can find a space to lay down your mat. And in Meguro Ward, a short walk from Nakameguro Station, is the Meguro River lined with about 800 cherry trees.
I lived in the Kansai area (which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hyogo) during the pandemic period, and locals have shared some places they usually go to for hanami.
For Osaka, the forecasted flowering date is March 30 with the full bloom date on April 6.
Hyogo
Himeji Castle Park
More than 1,000 cherry trees are planted on the grounds of Himeji Castle. If you don’t want to pay the entrance fee of 1,000 yen (P390) to the castle, you can still enjoy the sea of pink flowers from the sprawling grounds just outside.
How to get there: The castle is about 1 kilometer from Himeji Station. From Himeji Station’s north exit, it’s about a 20-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take the bus for 210 yen (P82).
Shukugawa Park
Located in Nishinomiya City in Hyogo Prefecture, Shukugawa Park has over 1,600 cherry trees lining the Sakuragawa River. This makes it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
How to get there: From Hankyu Umeda Station in Osaka, take the Hankyu Kobe Line to Shukugawa Station (210 yen/P110). The park is a short walk from the station. Alternatively, you can take the JR Kobe Line to Sakura Shukugawa Station from Osaka Station.
Osaka
Kema Sakuranomiya Park
About 4,500 cherry blossom trees line over 4 km of the Ogawa River. The riverside park is a recommended place for enjoying the cherry blossoms free of charge.
How to get there: Take the Osaka Loop Line from Osaka Station and get off at Sakuranomiya Station (140 yen/P55). From the station, you can walk to Kema Sakuranomiya Park.
Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park
The sprawling grounds served as the venue for the Japan World Exposition in 1970. After the event, the space was turned into a large public park with over 5,000 cherry trees along the walking paths and the lawn areas. Do some more research to find out when the evening illuminations are. There is also a Japanese garden and a museum to add to your experience. Admission fee to the park alone is 260 yen (P100).
How to get there: From Umeda Osaka Station, take the Midosuji Line to Senrichuo Station. At Senrichuo Station, take the Osaka Monorail and get off at Bampakukinenkoen Station (630 yen/P245). Follow the directions to the park.
Osaka Castle Park
With more than 4,000 cherry trees on its spacious grounds, Osaka Castle is another favorite among locals and international visitors alike for cherry blossom viewing. Nishinomaru Park is a recommended place for a picnic. You can enjoy a view of the castle while having a picnic. Admission to the Nishinomaru Garden costs 200 yen (P78) and 350 yen (P135) during the extended hours of sakura season. The garden is also open until 9 p.m.
How to get there: The closest JR station to Osaka Castle is Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line (170 yen/P65) ride from JR Osaka Station.
Some things to remember when you go sakura viewing: Please do not pluck the blossoms or bend branches. Many places now prohibit selfie sticks, monopods, tripods especially if an area is overly crowded. Bring your trash home with you. Smoke in designated smoking areas.
The sakura blooms for a very short time. To make sure everyone can enjoy the delicate flowers, keep the above pointers in mind. Also, plan your visit ahead of time. Remember that places can be particularly crowded depending on the day and time you go.
