Say hello to Japan’s heart of culinary (or we say belly), Osaka! Perhaps the second most visited city after Tokyo, Osaka is best known for its food, history, nature and more. But do you know that you can also enjoy a memorable hanami aka sakura viewing when in Osaka? All you have to do is visit when the time is right (usually early April), and know where to look :

1. Osaka Castle

We bet that everyone’s first pick will go to this castle grounds with over 3.000 cherry trees. This historic site consists of many sections perfect for hanami picnic, including the famous Nishinomaru Garden located on the west side of the grounds. Take a stroll around this spacious place to wait on the magical evening view where trees are lit up.

2. Kema Sakuranomiya Park

Located between Kema Araizeki and Temmabashi Bridge, this stretch of terrace offers over 5.000 cherry trees lining the river’s edges. For many locals and tourists, this place is a must-visit spot during hanami due to the festival atmosphere in the air. Food stalls are lining up, lantern decorations are put up, boat trips are made available, and people are in the best and most cheerful mood - all thanks to the magnificent bloom in this gorgeous place.

3. Osaka Mint Bureau

More than 300 sakura trees of over 130 species await at the Osaka Mint Bureau. Bustling with blooms in spring, this place offers garden with a view in a one-way street from the south to the north gate. Just remember that this place is not a park thus picnic is not allowed. The bureau opens up its gate once a year for a week in April to welcome travelers and visitors, so enjoy your time with courtesy.

4. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

If nature is your thing, then Tsurumi park is just the perfect place to visit in Osaka. Other than cherry blossoms, this park has plenty of other flowers and plants that bloom during every season. Afterall, this gigantic park was once the host to an International Garden and Greenery Exposition back in 1990. So prepare your picnic stuff, head to this park and find your spot. Whenever you’re done with sakura viewing, there's a traditional Japanese garden, a rose garden, and more are waiting your visit.

5. Expo 70 Commemorative Park

From Expo 90, let’s move to Expo 70 aka Banpaku Kinen Koen, the host to the 1970 World Exhibition. This park is located on the outskirts of Osaka City, but easily accessible via monorail. Once you get there, be prepared as over 5.000 cherry trees greet you in delight, as well as other remnants of the expo, such as a traditional Japanese Garden and the Natural and Cultural Gardens.

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