[2026] 12 spots to enjoy spring flowers in Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe area)!

Spring is the season when all the plants and flowers that have been sleeping begin to move at once. Why don’t you go out to see colorful plants and flowers that give you a warm spring feeling? Here are some spots where you can enjoy flowers and plants in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.   -INDEX- [Nemophila] Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, Osaka [Nemophila]Kobe Agri Park “Nemophila Hill 2025”, Kobe [Poppy] Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Osaka [Aomomiji] Minoh Park, Osaka [Yamabuki] Matsuo-taisha Shrine, Kyoto [Kirishima Azalea] Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto [Peony] Otokunidera, Kyoto [Water Lily] Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto [Wisteria flowers] Nakayamadera, Takarazuka [Azalea] Sorakuen Garden, Kobe [Rose] Aramaki Rose Park, Itami [Japanese Primrose]Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Kobe Nemophila is a small, lovely flower of clear blue. It is a popular flower in recent years because of its spectacular view of the whole area spreading out like a blue carpet.   Approximately 1 million nemophila flowers bloom across the 44,000-square-meter grounds of Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, which overlooks the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On weekends and holidays, the park extends its hours so visitors can enjoy the sight of the setting sun sinking into the nemophila fields and the landscape as it turns orange.   There is also an area in the park where visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and tulips with nemophila, so if you are coming to Japan in spring, be sure to visit Osaka Maishima Seaside Park.   Nemophila Festival: April 11 (Sat) – May 10 (Sun), 2026 Usual viewing time: early April to early May   Kobe Agri Park’s “Nemophila Hill”,  a new spring attraction featuring approximately 1 million blooming nemophila flowers, has opened in Kobe! The harmony between the nemophila flowers that blanket the hill in blue and the clear blue sky creates a breathtaking panorama you’ll want to capture in photos.   Kobe Agri Park also has restaurants, barbecue facilities, a winery, a ceramics museum, and other facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy “food” and “agriculture” in various ways along with the nemophilas. Nemophila Hill 2026: Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Sunday, May 17, 2026 Usual viewing time: late April to early May Poppy is a member of the poppy family that has long been cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The seeds are also used in cooking. The Expo ’70 Park’s Shizen Bunka-en (Nature Park) and Hana-no-oka (Flower Hill) are decorated with approximately 380,000 poppies. The contrast of colors between the yellow and orange poppies and the fresh blue nemophila can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: early April to early May Aomomiji refers to the leaves of maple trees that turn from young leaves in spring to increasingly darker green. You can enjoy the fresh and crisp leaves of ao-momiji until they turn red in the fall. Minoh Park is famous for its autumn leaves, but it is also very beautiful in the fresh green season. Enjoy forest bathing surrounded by the sparkling green maples in the sunlight while listening to the murmuring of a mountain stream and the chirping of wild birds.   Usual viewing time: Late April to late May ▼Check this article▼ 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there Yamabuki is a deciduous shrub in the rose family with beautiful, almost orange-yellow flowers. The flower has been familiar to the Japanese people since ancient times.   Matsuo-taisha Shrine, known as a place of famous water, has about 3,000 yamabuki trees, which turn the shrine grounds yellow. The Yamabuki Festival is held every year when the flowers are at their best.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May It is very familiar in Japan and is often planted as a roadside tree or garden tree. It is loved by many people for its very vivid flowers.   Vivid Kirishima azaleas are in full bloom at Hachijogaike Pond at Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine. The crimson-tinged path surrounded by azalea plantings more than 2 meters high is magnificent.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May The peony is a plant that symbolizes beauty and has long been used as a design for crafts and paintings. It produces beautiful and large flowers like roses.   There are 2,000 peony plants of about 30 varieties at Otokunidera Temple. Protected by white Japanese umbrellas for sun protection, the bright pink and red buttons bloom in large profusion.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Water lilies are striking aquatic plants with flowers that seem to float above the water. It is widely distributed in ponds and swamps.   Kyoyoike Pond at Ryoanji Temple, a World Heritage site, is famous for its water lilies. Not only white but also red and pink flowers cover most of the pond. The flowers often open in the morning and close at noon, so the best time to see them is in the morning.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late August The Japanese Wisteria flowers is a species endemic to Japan and is mentioned in the Manyoshu(Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves, refers to the extensive collection of poems compiled during the Nara period in Japan). The long, hairpin-like flowers hang down in a drooping manner. Purple flowers are common, but white and pink flowers also exist. At Nakayama-dera Temple’s Star Plaza, there is a magnificent wisteria trellis that stretches about 80 meters. The rows of white wisteria flowers look like “clouds floating in a blue sky. The sweet fragrance of the flowers can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Mid-April to late April ▼Check this article▼ 7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers Sorakuen garden is Kobe City’s only Japanese garden, covering an expansive area of approximately 20,000 square meters, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the seasons. In early summer, approximately 4,000 brightly colored white and pink azaleas fill the garden. Every spring, an event called “Tsutsuji Yuusan” is held, during which important cultural properties are opened to the public, musical concerts, tea ceremonies, and other events can be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May Roses have long been cultivated for perfumery and medicinal purposes.” It is said to be “the flower that symbolizes love,” and is often used in arrangements and bouquets because of its gorgeous appearance and wide variety of types and colors.   At Aramaki Rose Park in Itami, approximately 10,000 roses bloom in a stylish southern European-style garden. The view of the park, with its sloping terrain and colorful colors, is a must-see.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to mid-June Japanese Primrose is the largest member of the primrose family, with flower stalks that can reach 80 cm in length. It grows in clusters in wetlands at the foot of mountains.   At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, numerous alpine plants bloom from May to June. The 5,000 or so Japanese Primrose that fill the wetlands are especially breathtaking.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late May ▼Check this article▼ Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Perfect Panoramic Views and Outdoor Adventure Park! The colorful flowers that bloom in spring are a source of comfort and relaxation for those who see them. Why don’t you take advantage of the warm, sunny weather and visit some of the best places and spots for flowers in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe?

What is the highlight of Katsuo-ji in Minoh? A temple of luck to win in Osaka sightseeing

Katsuo-ji is attracting attention both in Japan and abroad as a temple where one can enjoy the blessings of luck in victory. The temple’s precincts, which are filled with “red, round objects” associated with prayers for luck in victory, have attracted much attention, and many visitors come to the temple throughout the year to see this unique sight. We will introduce “Katsuo-ji,” where you can experience a uniquely Japanese custom while feeling the beauty of nature!   -INDEX- A temple with a long history of luck in victory “Kachi-Dharma”, a pledge to “beat yourself” Fantastic scenery at one of the Kansai’s best spots for autumn foliage Souvenirs with dharma motifs for good luck! How to get to Katsuo-ji Check out “Minoh Waterfall” together! Katsuo-ji (勝尾寺), located on a hillside in Minoh City in northern Osaka Prefecture, is an ancient temple with a history of about 1,300 years. The temple was named “勝王寺 Katsuo-ji”, meaning “temple that triumphed over the king (王)” because it cured Emperor Seiwa’s illness, but because this was indeed a fearful thing to do, the name was changed to “Katsuo-ji” by changing “王(king)” to “尾(tail)” and changing the name to “勝尾寺 Katsuo-ji”. Later, the temple became widely known as “the temple that grasps victory” because famous military commanders prayed for victory in battle.   Even today, the temple is visited daily by many worshippers who come to pray for luck in all aspects of their lives, including academics, work, and sports. At the same time, the temple is one of the most scenic spots in Osaka, with its vast grounds surrounded by nature and filled with seasonal flowers and grasses. The temple is easily accessible from downtown Osaka, and is even more crowded during the season of autumn foliage and New Year’s visit to the temple. Katsuo-ji Temple is famous for its “Kacho-Dharma” (winning dharma). To begin with, “dharma” is a lucky charm to make wishes come true. In Japan, there is an old custom of writing an eye in one eye of the Dharma when wishing for success or victory, and writing the other eye of the Dharma when the wish comes true. “Winning” in this temple does not mean winning over others, but rather facing oneself and overcoming one’s weak mind. “Kachi-Dharma” does not mean having Dharma grant your wish, but rather a self-vow to “win yourself”.   There are some manners for Dharma dedication, so let me briefly introduce them! First, after choosing a Dharma with which you feel a connection from among the many Dharmas, write your life purpose at the bottom and the goal you want to achieve in 365 days for that purpose next to it. Next, sign your right eye while pledging in your heart, “I will spare no effort in my daily endeavors,” and fill in that right eye with black. Then, about a year later, return to the shrine to report the results and express your gratitude. If you are blessed with good luck, you will paint your left eye black as well and dedicate it to the “Kachi-Dharma Dedication Shelf”. The “Kachi-Dharma Dedication Shelf” is located next to the stone steps leading up to the main hall and is filled with dharma dolls dedicated by worshipers! The dharmas, with both eyes aligned, are a testament to the efforts of each and every one of them. The sight of bright red dharma dolls of all sizes lined up in a narrow space is a sight to behold, so be sure to take a commemorative photo here! Cute mini-dharma dolls can also be seen throughout the temple grounds, such as by the stone steps and in the lanterns. The mini-dharma placed in various places are actually omikuji drawn by visitors. The mini-dharma are filled with lots, and after reading the lots, visitors are allowed to stuff them back into the dharma and leave them wherever they wish. You can even find them in places you would never expect to find them. You may find it in the most unlikely places, so please feel like a treasure hunter and try to find it. Katsuo-ji is also known as the “temple of flowers” due to the abundance of flowers in the temple grounds, which offer a variety of cherry blossoms in March and April, rhododendrons in May, and hydrangeas in June and July. The temple’s beautiful green maple leaves during the season of fresh greenery provide a unique contrast to the flowers. In autumn, the entire grounds of the temple turn red and yellow, creating a fantastic scene that makes it a famous autumn color viewing spot. In particular, the approach to the main hall and Nikaido is covered with autumn leaves like an arch, making it a popular photo spot as a “tunnel of autumn leaves”. The view from the Kannon Pond plateau is also spectacular, so be sure to stop and take a look.   There are many other spots where you can see beautiful autumn foliage in the grounds of the temple, which are rich in nature! Look up and you will see red maple leaves shining in the sunlight, look down and you will see a colorful carpet of fallen leaves…no matter where you look, you are sure to find a photo opportunity.   In November, the lights are turned on after sunset on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, creating a dramatic atmosphere that is different from the one during the daytime.   The Benten Pond, located past the “Sanmon (Temple gate)” at the entrance to the temple grounds, will be spectacularly decorated with fountains, mist, and LEDs. Flaming red is exactly what it means. The illuminated “Tahoto Pagoda” is mysterious and breathtakingly beautiful.   If you want to enjoy the “autumn leaves viewing,” a Japanese autumnal tradition, please visit in November or early December! “Goshuin” is a seal that can be obtained as a proof of visit to a temple or shrine. At the temple, visitors can receive them at the Nokyoisho (Sutra Repository) next to the main hall, and can choose from three types ” Goshuin of Daihiden,” “Goshuin of Goeika (Buddhist hymn)”, and “Goshuin of Enkoudaishi”.   Purchasing souvenirs after visiting the shrine is also an enjoyable experience. The souvenir store just outside the temple grounds offers a wide variety of Dharma-themed goods and sweets, including ballpoint pens, mugs, cushions, and other items typical of Katsuo-ji. Among them, we recommend “Kachi gummy,” a collaboration between an Osaka-based confectionery maker and Katsuo-ji. These gummy bears are said to be made with the power to overcome oneself, and taking a bite of them at a moment of victory, such as an exam, work, or love, may give you a boost of power! If you eat it at the moment of victory, such as an exam, work, or love, you may feel a boost of power. ……?　It is also recommended to carry it as a good-luck charm after eating it. Visitors can reach Katsuo-ji by train and bus or cab, and those who do not have their own cars can still go sightseeing.   (1) By bus from the nearest station (about 55 minutes from Umeda, Osaka)  Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line from Umeda, Osaka. Get off at Senri-Chuo Station and board a Hankyu Bus bound for “Hokusetsu Reien” or “Kibogaoka 4-chome. Get off at the “Katsuo-ji” stop. (Buses run from 9:00 to 14:00, with approximately one service per hour on weekends and holidays, and approximately one service every two hours on weekdays.)   For more information, please visit the official Hankyu Bus website.   (2) By cab from the nearest station (about 45 minutes from Umeda, Osaka) It takes about 20 minutes from “Minoh” on the Hankyu Railway Takarazuka line or “Senri-chuo” station (about 3,000 yen to 4,000 yen). The time required may be longer during the season of autumn leaves and New Year’s visit to shrines due to traffic congestion, so please allow plenty of time for your trip.   ▼Click here for a detailed article on access▼ [Train & Bus Guide] How to Get to Katsuo-ji Temple in Osaka? Key Travel Tips for International Visitors If you take the “Minoh Takimichi One-way Sightseeing Tour Bus”, be sure to stop by “Minoh National Park”. This natural park is home to approximately 980 varieties of plants and is also famous for its autumn foliage along with “Katsuo-ji”. The most popular attraction is “Minoh Waterfall”, which was selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan. Many tourists are overwhelmed by the powerful scenery of this 33-meter waterfall, which has been selected as one of the “100 Best Waterfalls in Japan”.   ▼Check out this article too▼ Minoh, Osaka-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy The Most Beautiful Nature in Osaka! Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing   Surrounded by nature, Katsuo-ji is a place where you can experience the changing of the seasons and the Japanese flavor. It is easily accessible from downtown Osaka, so why not add this temple to your Osaka sightseeing itinerary? Enjoy the wonderful scenery and experiences that await you in each season of your visit!

Top 5 Marathons in Japan: How to Apply, Access & Travel Tips

Japan is highly regarded by runners around the world for being safe and easy to run in, as well as for its beautiful cityscapes. From cherry blossom-lined routes in Tokyo and Kyoto to unique winter runs on snow in Hokkaido, the country offers a wide variety of unforgettable courses. In this guide, we introduce some of the best marathon events in the Kansai region—where you can not only enjoy the race itself, but also explore nearby attractions and indulge in local cuisine.   Index 1. Kobe Marathon [Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026] 2. Nara Marathon [Held annually in December] 3. Kyoto Marathon [Held annually in February] 4. Osaka Marathon [Held annually in February] 5. Himeji Castle Marathon [Held annually in February] 6. Recommended “City Run” Spots in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe One of the highlights of the Kobe Marathon is the chance to run past stunning waterfront scenery unique to this port city, including views of the Kobe waterfront and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The course features minimal elevation changes, making it beginner-friendly and ideal for those aiming to achieve a personal best. With convenient access to the старт area, participants can join the race with ease and minimal stress.   ・Date: Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026 ・Entry Period: Applications open from mid-April ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of Kobe City Hall ・Access: 5 min walk from “Kobe-Sannomiya Station” on the Hankyu and Hanshin lines ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around Kobe-Sannomiya Station   ▼Kobe Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals   The Nara Marathon offers a truly unique course that takes runners past historic landmarks such as Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. While the second half is known for its challenging hills, the sense of accomplishment upon finishing is incredibly rewarding.   ・Date: Held annually in December ・Entry Period: Applications typically open from mid-June (based on 2025 schedule) ・Entry Method: First-come, first-served ・Start Location: Rohto Field Nara (based on 2025) ・Access: 20 min walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station /  30 min walk from JR Nara Station ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around JR Nara Station   ▼Nara Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Enjoy the Great Buddha of Nara, the pride of Japan’s World Heritage and power spot The Kyoto Marathon showcases the very best of the city, taking runners past iconic sights such as Arashiyama and Ninnaji Temple, along the scenic Kamo River, and finishing at Heian Jingu Shrine. While the first half features some gentle inclines, the charming, historic scenery provides plenty of motivation along the way. Its popularity is also boosted by the convenient location, just steps from the nearest station.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from mid-July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: Takebishi Stadium Kyoto ・Access: Next to “Nishikyogoku Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Kyoto-kawaramachi Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line   ▼Kyoto Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Within Walking Distance from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: Easy-to-Visit Popular Sightseeing Spots 7 Japanese Sweets “Wagashi” in Kyoto. To taste, to buy, to know, to experience. One of the largest marathons in Japan, the Osaka Marathon is a lively, festival-like event with an incredible atmosphere. The area, located in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office, is right next to Osaka Castle—offering beautiful views of its iconic main tower. The course takes runners through the heart of Osaka, including major streets like Midosuji and Dotonbori, with nonstop cheers from spectators energizing participants along the way.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from late July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office Building ・Access: About 10 min walk from “Tanimachi 4-chome Station” on the Osaka Metro Chuo and Tanimachi line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Osaka-umeda Station” on the Hankyu line   ▼Osaka Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Half-Day Tours in Osaka! 8 Local Trip Recommendations [2025] Best 11 Food in Osaka Umeda: From the Newest Restaurants to Classic Japanese Cuisine 5 Private Onsen & Baths to enjoy in Osaka! Hot spring resorts to stay overnight or enjoy on a day trip Due to parking facility renovation work around the venue, the event is scheduled to be suspended in 2027. We look forward to its return! Even outside of official races, there are plenty of great spots in Kansai where you can enjoy a casual run while traveling. Here are some recommended running courses:   Osaka Castle Park (Osaka) Approximately 4 km per loop. This open and scenic course lets you run while enjoying views of Osaka Castle. With few traffic lights and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, it’s a favorite among runners.   Kamo River (Kyoto) A classic running route with no traffic lights and soft dirt paths that are gentle on your legs. You can start anywhere along the river—such as Shijo or Sanjo—and run at your own pace, making it very convenient.   Nijo-jo Castle (Kyoto) Approximately 3.3 km per loop. Run alongside the historic stone walls of the castle on a traffic-free course. It’s well-lit at night, making it ideal for a safe and enjoyable night run.   Himeji Castle (Kobe・Himeji) Approximately 3 km per loop. This course offers close-up views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle. The castle is illuminated from sunset until midnight, allowing you to enjoy a truly special night run.   How did you like these options? Kansai offers a wide range of marathon events and running spots where you can not only enjoy the run itself, but also explore local attractions and indulge in regional cuisine. Find the perfect race or route for you, and experience the joy of running through Japan’s vibrant cities!

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Reviews and Things to Know before Going

Notice of Ferris Wheel Extended Closure (Renovation Work) The Ferris wheel will resume operation on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Are you thinking of visiting the iconic Ferris wheel and riding it? What to know about HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel before going?   This article is going to introduce you to the detailed information such as the size, price, opening hours, and most importantly, riding review.   Hope you will find it helpful for your trip!   Index HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel basic information HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel review Food options after taking a ride HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel vs. Tempozan Ferris Wheel Transportation from HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to other major tourist attractions in Osaka HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Tsutenkaku Tower HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Umeda Sky Building HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Osaka Castle Museum HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel basic information   ＜HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Overview＞ Height: 106m above ground Diameter: 75m Duration for 1 ride: About 15 min. Opening hours: 11:00~23:00 (Last ride at 22:45) Ticket price: JPY800 (Free for children under 5) *Reservation is not required. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is a symbolic Osaka landmark of Osaka. The bright red color structure made it easy to be noticed even among all tall buildings in the Umeda area. Featured by its location built on top of a shopping mall, HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel has become a popular scenic spot to visit.   From HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, you are able to overlook the mountains, Osaka Castle and railways from afar. Get a breathtaking view of the Osaka cityscape, and enjoy the romantic night view.   A Bluetooth speaker and air-conditioner is provided inside the gondola to make sure you can have a great time whether it’s summer or winter. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel review   Now, after knowing all that information, are you ready to take a ride? This time, our writer from China rode the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel for the first time just like you. Hope you will find the following experience helpful!     HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, located in the popular Umeda area in Osaka, has a stunning all-red structure which stands out among the tall buildings around. The bright red and clear blue sky intertwines to form a spectacular picture. When entering HEP FIVE mall, there is an information counter on the left side. If foreign tourists show passports to the staff, a JPY500 coupon is offered which can be used for shopping and dining in the mall. Next, on the right side is an elevator that can take you directly to the 7th floor where the Ferris wheel terminal is located. Also, an escalator is close to the entrance and is recommended when the elevator is crowded. Before going up, don’t forget to take a picture with the large whale at the entrance! Ticket counter is right in front after getting out of the elevator. You can purchase a ticket from the ticket machines next to the counter but please note that only cash is accepted. In addition to Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean instructions are provided by the ticket machines. Next to them is a currency change machine which accepts 14 kinds of foreign currencies. For those who have an Osaka Amazing pass, the Ferris wheel ride is free. Once you have the ticket, follow the line and head to the boarding area. It’s time to ride the Ferris wheel!   The Ferris wheel gondola is painted in beautiful red both outside and inside which is really romantic and photogenic, especially during sunset and at night. Inside the gondola, there is a Bluetooth speaker and air-conditioner facilities that promise you a pleasant riding experience even on the hottest day in summer. The instruction of the speaker is written in both Japanese and English.   The windows of the gondolas are clean enough for you to see the beautiful view no matter if it’s day or night and you can find coupon information inside. With the Ferris wheel slowly going up, you can see the most prosperous area in Osaka at a glance.   Plenty of photo opportunities available that seem as though you are floating in the air. When getting close to the top spot, look around so you can find the famous Osaka Castle if visibility is good enough.   Strolling through the air in the gondola is sure to be an unforgettable and special experience. However, riding at night is a quite different experience from the day. After the sun goes down and everything else seems to loosen up a little, the red color structure is particularly eye-catching against the dark night. Thousands of buildings are illuminated by surrounding lights, creating this stunning scene.   Ride the Ferris wheel and enjoy the terrific night view with your favorite song played as background music during the 15-minute’s ride, what a perfect ending of the day! When the ride comes to an end, you can follow the exit sign and go back to HEP FIVE mall. But before that, who not take a photo with the photogenic Ferris wheel as background! Compared with the time when getting into the gondola, you can have enough time to take individual photos when you get off! Food options after taking a ride   Once you follow the exit sign and go back to the mall, it leads you to the food floor “TAMLO”.   Here you may find not only chic cafes, but also Tonkatsu restaurants. Also, there are lunch and dinner menus offered by restaurants such as hamburg shops in colorful decorations. If you want some Osaka local snacks, go to the 1st floor of HEP FIVE where there is a Takoyaki store.   ▼Check this article▼ Osaka Umeda’s newest gourmet spot, HEP FIVE “TAMLO” is perfect for lunch and a cafe!   HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel vs. Tempozan Ferris Wheel   There is another famous Ferris wheel called Tempozan Ferris Wheel. For those who are hesitating which one to visit, you may check the comparison chart below.   HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Tempozan Ferris Wheel Location Center of Umeda Bay area Nearest station Hankyu Osaka-umeda Station Hanshin Osaka-Umeda Station JR Osaka Station Osaka Metro: Midosuji Line Umeda Station Tanimachi Line Higashi-Umeda Station Yotsubashi Line Nishi-Umeda Station Osaka Metro Chuo Line Osakako Station Height 106m above ground 112.5m above ground Diameter 75m 100m Capacity 4 people per gondola 8 people per gondola Duration for 1 ride Approx. 15 min. Approx. 15 min. Gondola units 52 units 60 units Air-conditioners Air-conditioned Air-conditioned Price JPY 600(Free for children under 5） JPY 900 Opening hours 11:00～23:00 Last ride at 22:45 Monday～Friday 10:00～21:00 Weekends & Holidays 10:00～22:00 Special discounts Free if one has an Osaka Amazing Pass Set of tickets for Santa Maria Cruise (Santa Maria boarding ticket + Ferris Wheel ticket)   *Information by July 2024   HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is recommended if you prefer: ・A more convenient location to different transportations ・Open until late night ・A breathtaking city view   Tempozan Ferris Wheel is recommended if you prefer: ・A bigger size of the Ferris wheel ・Not only the city but a beautiful ocean view ・A bigger gondola which can hold for more than 5 people   Since either Ferris wheel is very popular and worth riding, you may choose according to the traveling schedule and numbers of passengers. Transportation from HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to other major tourist attractions in Osaka   Last but not least, the following is going to introduce you to the transportation access to the main sightseeing spots from the Ferris Wheel. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Tsutenkaku Tower   Time: About 30 min. Access: Take Osaka Metro Midosuji Line from Umeda Station, get off at Dobutsuen-mae Station and walk about 7 minutes. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Umeda Sky Building   Time: About 12 min. Access: By walking HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel to Osaka Castle Museum Time: About 35 min. Access: Take Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line from Higashi-Umeda Station, get off at Tanimachi 4-chome Station, and walk about 18 minutes.

6 Shrines to Visit in Osaka & Kyoto for Trending “Transparent Omamori” on SNS

Have you heard about the “transparent omamori” that have recently gone viral on Japanese social media for their breathtaking beauty? Unlike traditional fabric charms, these clear, skeleton-style omamori feature delicate embroidery or lace designs, offering a refined elegance that feels almost spiritually uplifting just to carry. In this article, we introduce shrines in Osaka and Kyoto where you can receive these stylish and meaningful charms. From customizable designs to those with unique blessings, discover a wide variety of fashionable yet auspicious omamori to suit your personal taste.   Index 1. [Osaka] Hokoku Shrine – A power spot within Osaka Castle 2. [Osaka] Otori Taisha Shrine – Cute charms symbolizing a clear future 3. [Osaka] Tsuyunoten Shrine (Ohatsu Tenjin) – Get a one-of-a-kind charm 4. [Kyoto] Shimogamo Shrine – Popular delicate lace charms 5. [Kyoto] Mikami Shrine – Japan’s only shrine dedicated to the god of hair 6. [Kyoto] Heian-Jingu Shrine – Choose charms in your favorite color Hokoku Shrine Osaka enshrines the great warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who rose from humble origins to become one of Japan’s most powerful leaders. The shrine is well known for its blessings of success, career advancement, and protection from misfortune. Located within Osaka Castle Park, it’s a perfect stop to visit alongside sightseeing at Osaka Castle. Inspired by the in-house Wakunaga Shrine, the popular “Kagayaki Mamori” (Radiance Amulet) carries the wish for “eternal youthfulness and lasting beauty.” Its charming embroidered design, featuring a plant that always grows upward in search of sunlight, symbolizes positivity and vitality, making it a beloved talisman for beauty, health, and longevity. Otori Taisha Shrine is a historic and prestigious shrine known as the Ichinomiya (highest-ranked shrine) of the former Izumi Province. It enshrines the legendary hero Yamato Takeru and Otorinomuraji no Oyagami. Based on the many tales of Yamato Takeru overcoming great challenges, the shrine is believed to grant blessings for victory and protection from misfortune. Its clear acrylic omamori, symbolizing the idea of “seeing clearly into the future,” has become a huge hit on social media. It is said that if you hold the charm up toward the main hall and take a photo, it brings even greater blessings. When held to the light, the design shines in rainbow colors, as if illuminating your path ahead with good fortune. Tsuyunoten Shrine—affectionately known as Ohatsu Tenjin—is famous as the setting of Chikamatsu Monzaemon’s masterpiece Sonezaki Shinju (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki). Inspired by the deep love of the story’s protagonists, the shrine has become a well-known spot for love and relationship blessings, attracting many visitors.   One of its highlights is the “Momoiro Omamori”, which allows you to create your own personalized charm. You can choose from over 50 types of delicately embroidered pouches and combine them with a wish card of your choice. Since the embroidery designs are updated regularly, you can create a one-of-a-kind omamori that is truly unique to you. Shimogamo Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto and is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It enshrines Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto, the deity said to have helped develop ancient Kyoto, and Tamayori Hime no Mikoto, a goddess associated with mystical legends. The shrine is widely known for its blessings related to love, safe childbirth, and beauty. Its “lace omamori”, created to bring good fortune and happiness, has become especially popular among women. Featuring delicate embroidery on a transparent fabric, the design is said to embody the wish that the divine power of the gods can be received more strongly, making it both a beautiful and meaningful charm. Mikami Shrine is located near the famous bamboo grove in Arashiyama and is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to the god of hair. The enshrined deity is Fujiwara no Masayuki, a real historical figure from the Kamakura period who served as an official court hairdresser. Today, professionals in the beauty and hair industry, as well as those wishing for beautiful, healthy hair, visit from all over Japan. One of its most popular charms is the “Fukugami Mamori”, featuring a transparent pouch with motifs of scissors and combs. Since ancient times, combs have been considered protective items against evil, and well-maintained hair is said to attract good fortune. This charm is cherished for its blessings of protecting hair health and enhancing its beauty and shine. Heian Jingu Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines, known for its massive torii gate set against the blue sky and its vivid vermilion shrine buildings. It enshrines Emperor Kanmu, who moved the capital to Kyoto in 794, and Emperor Komei of the late Edo period. The shrine is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including protection from misfortune, love and relationships, and academic success. Its beautifully translucent “Kanau Mamori” (Wish-Granting Charm) features designs inspired by weeping cherry blossoms and irises found within the shrine grounds. The charm strings come in 10 different colors, allowing you to choose your favorite—or even your oshi (favorite idol or character) color. It’s a stylish and meaningful charm, perfect for adding a personal touch to your visit and even supporting your oshi-katsu! Transparent omamori, with their delicate and beautiful appearance, make wonderful souvenirs that are sure to be appreciated. After taking a moment to clear your mind through shrine visits, why not bring home a piece of that experience in the form of a beautifully crafted charm?   ▼Check these articles▼ 8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions Unusual red seals and good luck charms! 12 Shrines and Temples in Kansai related to the Chinese Zodiac

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