Osaka in Four Seasons: A Year-Round Adventure Guide
It's already been 10 years since I moved to Osaka. Located in the center of the Kansai region, Osaka is Japan's second-largest city with a population of about 2.7 million in the city alone. Osaka has long been known as the "Kitchen of the Nation" and has flourished as a commercial center.
At first, I only thought of Osaka as a "city of gastronomy."
However, over these 10 years, I've been captivated by Osaka's multifaceted charms. From the modern skyscrapers of Umeda to the downtown atmosphere of Tsutenkaku, the city's expressions are truly diverse. And these charms change with the seasons.
In spring, I enjoy cherry blossom viewing surrounded by full blooms in Osaka Castle Park. In summer, I'm left breathless by the powerful fireworks on the banks of the Yodo River. When autumn comes, I savor "momiji tempura" while gazing at the autumn-colored Minoh Falls. In winter, my heart leaps at the glittering illuminations on Midosuji Street.
In this way, Osaka is a very attractive city where history and modernity intersect, showing different expressions in each season. There are countless charms here, including vibrant shopping streets, world-class food culture, and friendly citizens.
This time, I'll introduce you to ways to enjoy Osaka in each season that I've discovered over 10 years, along with special spots, events, and tips unique to locals.
Whether you're here for business, sightseeing, or even considering moving, please use this article as a reference to fully enjoy Osaka's charms throughout the seasons!
If you'd like to explore Osaka's diverse attractions year-round, we recommend checking out our Osaka Guide article.
Table of Contents
・When Should You Visit Osaka?
・Spring in Osaka: Enjoying Cherry Blossoms Throughout the City
・Autumn in Osaka: Enjoying Autumn Foliage in Parks
・Summer in Osaka: Enjoying Fireworks and Festivals
・Winter in Osaka: Enjoying Illuminations and New Year Events
・Seasonal Tips for Osaka
When Should You Visit Osaka?
Osaka is an attractive tourist destination throughout the year, but you can have different experiences depending on the season you visit. From my 10 years of experience, I'll share the characteristics of each season.
First, Osaka has many spots that can be enjoyed regardless of the season, such as Umeda, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan (USJ). These places are bustling all year round and allow you to feel the vibrancy of Osaka.
However, what I especially recommend are autumn with its fall foliage and spring with its cherry blossoms. If you visit during these two seasons, you can enjoy not only the charm of the big city but also the beauty of nature at the same time.
In spring, you can enjoy full cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park, and in autumn, you can view the vivid autumn colors in Minoh Park. These seasons can be said to encapsulate the charm of Osaka, where you can feel the harmony between the city and nature.
Summer is certainly hot, but it's also the season when many fireworks displays and festivals are held. In particular, the Tenjin Festival and Yodogawa Fireworks Festival are indispensable summer traditions in Osaka.
The atmosphere of the lively festivals and the fireworks coloring the night sky are so moving that they make you forget about the heat.
On the other hand, while winter has relatively fewer events and natural attractions, there are also fewer tourists. Therefore, it can be said to be a season when you can enjoy spots that aren't affected by seasons, such as USJ and Osaka Castle, relatively leisurely.
Also, the illumination event "Osaka Festival of the Lights" is a beautiful event that colors Osaka's winter.
In conclusion, Osaka is a city that can be enjoyed in any season, but if I had to choose, I would recommend spring and autumn. This is because these seasons offer beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, comfortable weather, and delicious food.
However, please choose the best season according to your interests and preferences. No matter which season you visit, Osaka is sure to provide you with a wonderful experience.
Spring in Osaka: Enjoying Cherry Blossoms Throughout the City
Spring in Osaka is a season when the entire city is dyed in cherry blossom color. For me, having lived in Osaka for 10 years, this season is a special time I look forward to every year. The beauty of the cherry blossoms blooming throughout the city is beyond words.
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka
In Osaka, cherry blossoms are typically at their best from late March to early April. However, the blooming time can vary due to climate fluctuations.
From my experience, I recommend checking the blooming status and forecasts on official websites or Google for each spot from the beginning of March.
Recently, I feel that the blooming time is getting slightly earlier, possibly due to global warming. If you're planning to visit Osaka for cherry blossoms, it's good to be flexible with your schedule.
Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots in Osaka
Here, I'll introduce two of my recommended cherry blossom spots in Osaka.
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park is Osaka's premier hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spot with about 3,000 cherry trees in full bloom. I've visited without fail every year for 10 years, and I'm moved by its beauty every time.
The view of cherry blossoms with the castle tower in the background is especially breathtaking, like a scene from a movie. At night, the cherry blossoms are illuminated, creating a different, fantastical atmosphere from daytime.
Access is also convenient, just a short walk from JR Loop Line "Osakajokoen Station" or Subway Chuo Line/Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line "Morinomiya Station". It's easy to drop by, so please make sure to visit when you're in Osaka.
Also check out our guide to Osaka Castle.
Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/?lang=en
Japan Mint Bureau (Zoheikyoku) "Cherry Blossom Viewing Through The Gates"
The "Cherry Blossom Viewing Through The Gates" at the Japan Mint Bureau (Zoheikyoku) is an indispensable spring event in Osaka. It's a special event where you can enjoy about 130 varieties and 350 cherry trees, and it's a rare opportunity to walk through the Mint Bureau grounds, which are usually not open to the public.
This event is held for about a week in mid-April every year. As the period is short, I recommend checking the schedule in advance. In 2024, reservations were required in advance, so it's possible that 2025 will be the same.
Access is about a 15-minute walk from JR Tozai Line "Osaka Temmangu Station" or about a 20-minute walk from Subway Tanimachi Line/Sakaisuji Line "Minamimorimachi Station". It's a bit of a walk, but you can enjoy the cityscape of Osaka on your way there.
Along with this article, be sure to check out our guide to Osaka's best cherry blossom viewing spots.
Website: https://www.mint.go.jp/category/eng
Spring Events in Osaka
Besides cherry blossoms, Osaka has attractive flower events in spring.
"Nemophila Festival" at Osaka Maishima Seaside Park
The "Nemophila Festival" held at Osaka Maishima Seaside Park is a spectacular event where about 1 million nemophila flowers, the largest in the Kansai region, bloom. When I first visited, I was breathless at the contrast between the blue flower field spreading out before me, the blue sky, and the blue of the sea.
It's usually held for about a month from early April, often overlapping with the cherry blossom season.
Access is about a 15-minute ride on the Maishima Active Bus from JR Yumesaki Line "Sakurajima Station", or about a 20-minute ride on the Cosmo Dream Line Bus from Osaka Metro Chuo Line "Cosmosquare Station", both getting off at "Hotel Lodge Maishima Mae".
Website: https://seasidepark.maishima.com/nemophila/
"Rose Garden" in Nakanoshima Park
The Rose Garden in Nakanoshima Park is a healing spot where you can enjoy beautiful roses while being in the center of Osaka. It's within walking distance from Umeda, and I often visit during lunch breaks to temporarily escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Around early May, about 310 varieties and 3,700 rose plants bloom, enveloping the entire park in a sweet fragrance.
Access is very convenient, just a short walk from Subway Midosuji Line/Keihan Railway "Yodoyabashi Station", "Kitahama Station", or "Naniwabashi Station". It's even within a 15-20 minute walk from Umeda, so it's a spot you can easily drop by during your Osaka sightseeing.
Please take a look at our Nakanoshima Guide as well.
Recommended Spring Gourmet in Osaka: Hanami Bento
Hanami bento (cherry blossom viewing lunch box) is a local recommended way to enjoy spring under the cherry trees.
During the cherry blossom season, supermarkets and department stores sell bento boxes perfect for hanami, using seasonal ingredients like bamboo shoots. Buying these hanami bento and enjoying them while viewing cherry blossoms is one of the delights of spring in Osaka.
I recommend the hanami bento sold in the basement floors (commonly known as "depachika") of Hankyu Department Store or Hanshin Department Store at Umeda. They are particularly well-regarded and popular among locals.
For those who want to enjoy Osaka's unique flavors, I also recommend street foods like takoyaki and kushikatsu. You'll find food stalls at almost all cherry blossom viewing spots, so it's fun to buy and eat on the spot.
The time spent with a hanami bento under the cherry trees in Osaka Castle Park or along the cherry-lined streets of the Mint Bureau has become an important spring memory for me. I hope you'll also enjoy the taste of spring in Osaka.
Spring Sightseeing Tips for Osaka: Learn Hanami Etiquette
To enjoy spring in Osaka pleasantly, it's important to know hanami etiquette. From my 10 years of experience visiting various hanami spots, I'll share some important points.
First, cherry blossom branches are very delicate. I understand the desire to touch them when taking photos, but please absolutely avoid touching the branches or picking the flowers.
Next is the issue of trash. When you have a hanami, if there are no trash cans, make sure to take your trash home with you. Especially at popular spots, trash cans can quickly fill up.
Also, don't forget to be considerate of other hanami-goers. Particularly at popular spots, large crowds gather. Be careful not to make too much noise and disturb others.
From my experience, moderate conversation and laughter enhance the hanami atmosphere, but singing loudly or making a ruckus while drunk should be avoided.
By following these manners, both you and those around you can enjoy hanami even more. Let's all enjoy the beautiful spring in Osaka together.
You can find all about Osaka in spring in our Osaka Spring Guide - be sure to take a look!
Autumn in Osaka: Enjoying Autumn Foliage in Parks
Autumn in Osaka is a season when the entire city is dyed in golden and red colors. The way the beauty of autumn foliage blends into the hustle and bustle of the city is beyond words.
Best Time to See Autumn Foliage in Osaka
In Osaka, autumn foliage is typically at its best from mid-November to early December. However, from my experience, it can shift significantly depending on the climate of that year, so caution is necessary.
Especially in recent years, possibly due to rising temperatures, there's a tendency for the autumn foliage season to be delayed. When I first came to Osaka, mid-November was the peak, but recently it often reaches its peak from late November to early December.
Therefore, if you're planning to visit Osaka for autumn foliage, I recommend checking the latest information on official websites or social media of each spot right before your visit. I myself make sure to check information on social media every year before heading out.
Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots in Osaka
Here, I'll introduce two autumn foliage spots in Osaka that I especially recommend.
Minoh Park
Minoh Park is a nature-rich park about 30 minutes by train from central Osaka, and it's my favorite autumn foliage spot. The spectacular view of the 33-meter-high Minoh Falls combined with autumn foliage is breathtakingly beautiful.
The walking path to the waterfall is about 3 kilometers long, and you can enjoy various types of autumn foliage along the way. The best time to see autumn foliage in Minoh is from mid-November to early December.
Also, Minoh is famous for "momiji tempura". This is an unusual food where autumn-colored maple leaves are deep-fried in tempura batter, sold at shops along the waterfall path.
At first, I was half in doubt, but when I actually tried it, it had an interesting taste with a crispy texture and the aroma of autumn leaves. When you go autumn leaf viewing, please give it a try.
You can access it by taking the Hankyu Takarazuka Line from "Osaka-Umeda Station" to Ishibashi Station, then transferring to the Minoh Line and getting off at the last stop.
Website: https://www.mino-park.jp/
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park is a beautiful spot not only for spring cherry blossoms but also for autumn foliage. It's an excellent photo spot to enjoy autumn foliage with the castle tower in the background, and I often visit.
The contrast between the autumn foliage and the historical building is beautiful, especially the combination of the golden castle tower shining in the evening light and the deep red autumn leaves is breathtaking. In the Nishinomaru Garden and plum grove, you can enjoy various types of autumn foliage and feel the harmony between the Japanese garden's beauty and the autumn colors.
The best time to see autumn foliage in Osaka Castle Park is from mid to late November. Being in the city center, access is very convenient. It's right near JR Loop Line "Osakajokoen Station" or Subway Chuo Line/Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line "Morinomiya Station".
Please take a look at our Osaka autumn foliage spots guide article as well.
Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/?lang=en
Autumn Event in Osaka: Midosuji Autumn Party
The Midosuji Autumn Party is one of the representative events of autumn in Osaka. It's a large-scale event held every autumn on Midosuji, the main street that runs north-south through the center of Osaka, and I look forward to it every year.
The biggest attraction of this event is that Midosuji, usually overflowing with cars, becomes a pedestrian paradise. In the event space spread all over the street, various performances such as street performances, live music, and dance are held.
It's usually held in November, and in 2023 it was on November 3rd. The 2024 schedule hasn't been announced yet, but if it follows the usual pattern, I think it will be in early November. I recommend checking the official website as the date approaches.
Website: https://www.pref.osaka.lg.jp/o070080/miryokuzukuri/party/index.html
Autumn Gourmet in Osaka
Autumn in Osaka has many delicious foods that warm the body, as it's called the season of appetite. As someone who has lived in Osaka for 10 years, these autumn flavors are one of my annual pleasures.
First, matsutake mushroom dishes, a representative of autumn flavors, are absolutely not to be missed. In Osaka, you can enjoy matsutake dishes not only in high-class restaurants but also in general Japanese restaurants.
Also, dishes using sanma (Pacific saury), a fish in season in autumn, are one of the pleasures of autumn in Osaka. Not only grilled with salt, but sanma sashimi and nigiri sushi are also exquisite.
You can enjoy these autumn gourmet foods in various places in Osaka. For example, in the basement food floors of department stores in Namba and Shinsaibashi, various autumn flavors are gathered in one place.
Also, in downtown areas like Temma and Fukushima, you can enjoy autumn flavors at reasonable prices in izakayas loved by locals.
For more information about fall in Osaka, take a look at our Osaka Autumn Guide.
Summer in Osaka: Enjoying Fireworks and Festivals
Summer in Osaka is full of heat and excitement. While the heat is indeed intense, there are also plenty of fun events. In particular, fireworks displays and festivals are summer traditions in Osaka.
Recommended Summer Fireworks Displays in Osaka
Here I'll introduce two must-see fireworks displays in Osaka. Among these, the "Tenjin Festival" is an event where a traditional festival and fireworks display are combined.
Tenjin Festival
The Tenjin Festival is one of Japan's three major festivals, with over 1,000 years of history, and is Osaka's largest summer festival. I still can't forget the excitement when I first participated. I was overwhelmed by the scale, the weight of tradition, and the unique atmosphere where modern elements are fused.
The highlight of the festival is the competition of fireworks coloring the night sky and lights reflecting on the river surface. About 5,000 fireworks are launched, and the sight of them reflecting on the surface of the Okawa River is fantastic. My recommended viewing spot is near Tenmabashi Bridge.
The charm of the Tenjin Festival is not just the fireworks. On July 24th every year, boat rituals and traditional parades are held. The long-standing rituals and the procession of people dressed in gorgeous costumes are like watching a scene from a historical drama.
And throughout the festival, many food stalls selling Osaka specialties are set up. You can enjoy the tastes of Osaka summer, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and shaved ice.
The Tenjin Festival is held on July 24th and 25th every year. The fireworks display is on the night of the 25th, but you can enjoy the festival atmosphere on both days. However, it gets very crowded, so I recommend using public transportation.
Also check out our guide to Osaka's traditional festivals.
Website: https://tenjin-matsuri.com/
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
The Yodogawa Fireworks Festival is the largest fireworks display in the Kansai region, with about 7,000 large fireworks coloring the night sky. When I first saw it after moving to Osaka, I was speechless at its scale and beauty.
It's held in early August every year, and in 2024 it was on August 3rd. My recommended way to view is using paid seats. It does cost a bit, but being able to sit comfortably and enjoy the fireworks is exceptional.
However, you can still fully enjoy the fireworks in the free areas on the riverbank. In my experience, arriving early to secure a spot, spreading out a leisure sheet, and enjoying food and drinks with friends while waiting for the fireworks is also part of the summer memories.
As a note, traffic regulations are strict, so I recommend using public transportation. Also, it gets very crowded when leaving, so one strategy is to leave a bit early without watching until the very end. You can still enjoy plenty of fireworks, and avoid the crowding when leaving.
Website: https://www.yodohanabi.com/
Summer Gourmet in Osaka: Enjoying Food Stall Cuisine
The real pleasure of summer festivals and fireworks displays in Osaka is enjoying food stall cuisine. Foods representative of Osaka like takoyaki, ikayaki (grilled squid), and okonomiyaki are sold at stalls during festivals and fireworks displays.
My recommendation is, without a doubt, takoyaki. The texture of crispy outside and gooey inside, along with the flavor of bonito flakes and aonori (green laver), is exquisite. The piping hot takoyaki made at food stalls has a different deliciousness from those eaten at shops.
Ikayaki is also a summer festival staple. The savory taste of a whole squid grilled and brushed with soy sauce is perfect as a beer snack. I look forward every year to enjoying ikayaki with a beer in hand.
We can't forget okonomiyaki either. At food stalls, smaller okonomiyaki are common, suitable for eating while walking. The sweetness of the cabbage and the sourness of the sauce make you forget about the heat.
And indispensable for hot summers is kakigori (shaved ice). Recently, you can enjoy shaved ice with various flavors like matcha, strawberry, and mango.
These food stall foods further enhance the atmosphere of festivals and fireworks displays. However, many food stalls only accept cash, so I recommend preparing some small change.
To fully enjoy Osaka's summer, the best way is to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of fireworks and festivals while enjoying these food stall foods. Deliciousness and fun that make you forget about the heat are surely waiting for you.
Recommended Summer Sightseeing Spots in Osaka
Even if you miss the fireworks season, here are spots where you can enjoy Osaka's summer.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Kaiyukan is one of the world's largest aquariums and is an unmissable summer sightseeing spot in Osaka.
The charm of Kaiyukan is, above all, its overwhelming scale. In the central 9-meter-high large tank, you can see large creatures like whale sharks and manta rays swimming gracefully up close. This sight never fails to excite me no matter how many times I see it.
The Tempozan area where Kaiyukan is located is by the sea, offering a cool atmosphere. The inside of the building is air-conditioned, so you can spend comfortably even on hot summer days.
Also, from the nearby Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Osaka Bay. If you ride at dusk, you can see a beautiful contrast between the setting sun and the Osaka cityscape, perfect for creating summer memories.
Access is a 5-10 minute walk from "Osakako Station" on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line. It's about 30 minutes from Namba or Umeda, so I recommend dropping by during your Osaka sightseeing.
My favorite way to spend time is to interact with sea creatures at Kaiyukan and then enjoy dinner at Tempozan Harbor Village. Looking at the night view of Osaka Bay, you can enjoy a summer night forgetting about the heat.
Please take a look at our Kaiyukan guide article as well.
Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
Tennoji Zoo Night Zoo
The Night Zoo at Tennoji Zoo is a unique experience to enjoy Osaka's summer nights. It has become an annual summer event that I visit every year with friends and family.
This event, where the zoo, which is usually only open during the day, opens specially at night, allows you to observe nocturnal animals that you usually can't see.
The charm of the Night Zoo is not only discovering unexpected sides of the animals. You can also enjoy the fantastical atmosphere unique to a nighttime zoo. The illuminated zoo grounds have a completely different atmosphere from daytime, making you feel like you've come to a different place.
In 2024, it's scheduled to be held for 12 days: August 3rd (Saturday), 4th (Sunday), 10th (Saturday), 11th (Sunday), 12th (Monday, public holiday), 17th (Saturday), 18th (Sunday), 24th (Saturday), 25th (Sunday), September 14th (Saturday), 15th (Sunday), and 16th (Monday, public holiday).
Access is about a 10-minute walk from JR/Osaka Metro Midosuji Line/Tanimachi Line "Tennoji Station" or about a 5-minute walk from Osaka Metro Midosuji Line/Sakaisuji Line "Dobutsuen-mae Station".
Website: https://www.tennojizoo.jp/en/
For those who want to learn more about summer events and recommended spots in Osaka, we recommend reading our Osaka Summer Guide.
Winter in Osaka: Enjoying Illuminations and New Year Events
Winter in Osaka is colored by gorgeous illuminations and traditional New Year events. While it's cold, there are beautiful sights and heartwarming experiences that make you forget about the cold.
Winter Festivals and Events in Osaka
Here, I'll introduce Osaka's illumination event and the traditional "Hatsumode" (first shrine visit of the New Year).
Osaka Festival of the Lights (Hikari no Kyoen)
The "Osaka Festival of the Lights (Hikari no Kyoen)" is the collective name for winter illumination events held in various parts of Osaka city.
The main events are the Midosuji Illumination and the Nakanoshima Illumination. The Midosuji Illumination is usually held from November to December. The sight of the ginkgo trees lining Midosuji Avenue, stretching about 4 kilometers, decorated with LED lights is spectacular.
The Nakanoshima Illumination is held for about 10 days in December. Centered on Nakanoshima Park, the riverside promenade and bridges are lit up, creating a fantastical space.
The charm of the Osaka Festival of the Lights is that you can enjoy not only the illuminations but also the cityscape of Osaka along with them.
For example, while walking along the Midosuji Illumination, you can enjoy the diverse expressions of Osaka at once, such as retro buildings and modern skyscrapers along the street.
Also, near the Nakanoshima Illumination, there are many cultural facilities such as the Osaka City Central Public Hall and the National Museum of Art, Osaka. It's also a good way to spend winter visiting these facilities along with viewing the illuminations.
However, as it's a popular event, it gets crowded, especially on weekends. If possible, I recommend visiting on a weekday night. Also, as it's a cold season, don't forget warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Website: https://www.hikari-kyoen.com/
Hatsumode
Hatsumode is a traditional Japanese New Year's event where many people visit shrines and temples from January 1st to 3rd. Hatsumode means more than just a visit; it's an important opportunity to make New Year's resolutions and celebrate the New Year with family and friends.
There are many shrines and temples in Osaka city, but Sumiyoshi Taisha and Osaka Tenmangu are particularly popular. Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of the oldest shrines in Osaka, and its solemn atmosphere is overwhelming. On the other hand, Osaka Tenmangu is known as the god of learning and is popular among exam-takers and students.
Many food stalls are set up for visitors. Enjoying Osaka-style street foods like amazake, yakitori, and takoyaki while doing Hatsumode is a uniquely Osaka way to enjoy it. Hot food eaten in the cold is especially delicious.
Also, don't forget to prepare for the cold. Osaka's winters are surprisingly cold, especially at night.
Hatsumode is a precious opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand. Making New Year's resolutions in a solemn atmosphere and celebrating the New Year with people around you. This experience is sure to become an unforgettable memory. If you have a chance to spend New Year in Osaka, please experience Hatsumode.
Winter Gourmet in Osaka
Winter in Osaka is rich in delicious foods that warm the body. For me, who has lived in Osaka for 10 years, these winter flavors are one of my annual pleasures.
First, oden, which is seasoned differently from the Kanto region with a strong dashi flavor, is an unmissable winter staple in Osaka.
Osaka's oden is characterized by a slightly lighter taste compared to that in the Kanto region, with a strong dashi flavor. The ingredients are also a bit different, with beef tendon, konnyaku, and hanpen being popular.
Also, we shouldn't forget "doteyaki", a traditional winter specialty dish in Osaka. This is a dish where beef tendon is stewed in miso, characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
You can easily enjoy these winter gourmet foods in various places in Osaka. For example, you can find winter delicacies gathered in one place in the basement food floors of department stores in Namba and Shinsaibashi.
Also, in downtown areas like Temma and Fukushima, you can enjoy winter flavors at reasonable prices in izakayas loved by locals.
When you visit Osaka, please make sure to try these winter gourmet foods.
To discover more about winter illuminations and events in Osaka, please refer to our Osaka Winter Guide.
Seasonal Tips for Osaka
Lastly, as a local who has lived here for 10 years, I'll share some tips for comfortably enjoying the seasons in Osaka.
Choose Clothing According to the Season
From my 10 years of experience living in Osaka, I'll share tips for choosing clothes for each season.
First, spring and autumn are characterized by big temperature differences between day and night. You might be comfortable in a T-shirt during the day, but it often gets cold at night.
I always carry a light cardigan or jacket. This is especially handy if you plan to walk around sightseeing.
Autumn, in particular, has drastic temperature changes, so caution is needed. While you might still have days where you can wear short sleeves in September, it can suddenly get cold from late October to November.
In winter, be mindful of the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. Heating is very effective inside buildings in Osaka, creating a big temperature gap with the outside. I make sure to dress in layers that are easy to take on and off.
Summer is just hot. From July to early September, it becomes humid and extremely muggy. I choose clothes made of breathable materials and use hats for sun protection. Don't forget to hydrate frequently when sightseeing and walking around.
And for any season, choosing comfortable shoes is crucial. While Osaka has well-developed public transportation like trains and buses, you'll often walk between tourist spots. I use sneakers with good cushioning and style.
Appropriate clothing choices greatly affect the quality of your trip. I hope you'll have a comfortable experience of Osaka's seasonal charms by referring to these tips.
Enjoy Seasonal Meals
Osaka, known as the "city of gastronomy," offers a variety of delicious foods in each season. For me, having lived in Osaka for 10 years, enjoying seasonal meals is one of the great joys of living here.
Japan has a culture that greatly values the "four seasons". Osaka is no exception, and when you visit restaurants, you'll often find "limited-time menus". These menus often use seasonal ingredients, allowing you to enjoy flavors unique to that season.
For example, cherry shrimp and bamboo shoots in spring, conger eel and cold Chinese noodles in summer, matsutake mushrooms and Pacific saury in autumn, and crab and oysters in winter. I recommend choosing these "limited-time menus". By doing so, you can taste the season more deeply.
The basement food floors of department stores (commonly known as "depachika") in Osaka's bustling areas are ideal for finding seasonal ingredients and side dishes. I often stop by on weekends to look for delicious-looking seasonal side dishes and bento boxes.
However, as a note, seasonal ingredients are often expensive. I recommend enjoying them according to your budget.
Enjoying seasonal meals is not just about eating delicious food, but also a wonderful experience where you can feel Japanese culture and the changing of nature.
When you visit Osaka, please pay attention to seasonal menus as well.
Include Spots That Aren't Affected by Seasons in Your Itinerary
When visiting Osaka, while it's wonderful to enjoy spots that are attractive in each season, I recommend including spots that aren't affected by seasons in your itinerary as well. From my 10 years of experience living in Osaka, I'll share tips for creating a balanced itinerary.
First, spots for enjoying natural scenery like cherry blossoms and autumn foliage don't have a very long peak season, usually only 1-2 weeks. For example, the cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park are typically at their best from late March to early April, but they might fall earlier depending on the climate that year.
Similarly, the autumn foliage in Minoh Park is at its best from mid to late November, but leaves might fall early due to rain. I've had several disappointing experiences where I missed the timing for autumn leaf viewing that I was looking forward to.
Therefore, if your entire itinerary consists of cherry blossom or autumn foliage spots, you might feel disappointed if you miss the peak season. That's why including spots that aren't affected by seasons, like Dotonbori or Umeda, in your itinerary can lead to a more satisfying trip.
For example, Dotonbori is the center of Osaka's food culture and is bustling all year round. Walking around eating takoyaki and okonomiyaki while looking at Osaka's characteristic flashy signs like the famous Glico sign and the giant crab sign can be enjoyed in any season.
Also, modern commercial facilities like Grand Front Osaka in Umeda and Abeno Harukas in Tennoji are spots that can be enjoyed regardless of the season. You can enjoy shopping and views from the observation decks. I always take my friends and family who visit Osaka to these spots.
Furthermore, Osaka's cultural facilities are good options that aren't affected by seasons. For example, the National Museum of Art, Osaka and the Osaka Science Museum hold interesting exhibitions and events throughout the year. They're also great alternatives for rainy days.
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is also a popular spot year-round. While seasonal events change, you can enjoy the basic attractions all year. I like to visit during the pleasant weather of spring and autumn.
Osaka is a city filled with charms that change with the seasons. Through my 10 years of experience living in this city, I've introduced ways to enjoy Osaka in each season.
In spring, full-bloom cherry blossoms color the city. In summer, lively festivals and fireworks displays light up the night sky. In autumn, fall foliage colors parks and mountains. And in winter, illuminations wrap the city in a fantastical atmosphere. And in every season, delicious Osaka-style food awaits you.
On the other hand, Osaka also has many attractive spots that aren't affected by seasons. The bustle of Dotonbori, the exciting experiences at USJ, the modern cityscape of Umeda - there are plenty of places that can be enjoyed year-round.
When you visit Osaka, please enjoy special seasonal events and scenery while also visiting these standard spots!
