Shubodai Observatory | Walking Guide from Osaka Ikeda Station

Satsukiyama stands almost at the center of Ikeda City in Osaka. With an elevation of around 315 meters, this mountain is a symbolic landmark of the area. Scattered across the summit are five viewpoints, all known for stunning night scenery—so impressive that they’ve been selected as part of the “Top 100 Night Views of Japan.” Among them, Shubodai is especially popular thanks to its easy access: it’s only about a 30-minute walk from Hankyu Ikeda Station. This guide covers everything you need to know, from how to get to Shubodai to recommended attractions nearby.   <index> 1. About Ikeda City in Osaka, home to Shubodai 2. What to bring and what to wear before hiking to Shubodai 3. How to get to Hankyu Ikeda Station from Osaka-Umeda 4. Walking time and route from Hankyu Ikeda Station to Shubodai 5. How to enjoy your visit to Shubodai 6. Other sightseeing spots in Ikeda to enjoy together with Shubodai Ikeda City is located in the northern part of Osaka and offers excellent access—only about 20 minutes from central Osaka’s Umeda Station on the Hankyu Railway. Known as the birthplace of instant ramen, the city is home to the CupNoodles Museum, where visitors can create their own original cup noodles. Ikeda also features historic sites such as Ikeda Castle Ruins Park. With its mix of food culture, history, and insights into Japan’s modernization, Ikeda is a great destination for travelers looking to explore beyond central Osaka. Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers or walking shoes. The route involves walking from the station and includes sections of mountain paths, so high heels or sandals are not recommended. Depending on the season, bring appropriate layers to stay warm, along with water for hydration. If you plan to enjoy the night views, carrying a small flashlight is reassuring. As you’ll be exploring nature, dressing in comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing is the best choice. From Osaka-Umeda, take the Hankyu Railway. Osaka-Umeda Station is a major terminal with trains to Kobe and Kyoto, but to reach Ikeda Station—the nearest station to Shubodai—you’ll board the Hankyu Takarazuka Line from platforms 4–6. The ride takes about 18 minutes by Rapid Express, and the one-way fare is 280 yen.   For travelers planning to explore multiple areas, the Hankyu 1-day Pass (1,300 yen) is a great deal, offering unlimited rides on all Hankyu lines for a full day. 〈Digital Ticket〉Hankyu 1-day Pass – 2025 Edition Once you arrive at Hankyu Ikeda Station, it’s time to head toward Shubodai. Exit through the station’s only ticket gate, turn left, and continue straight—do not go down the stairs or escalator in front of you. Before long, you’ll see a pedestrian bridge. Cross it, and you’ll enter Sakaemachi Shopping Street. From here, just keep walking straight. Even after the covered arcade ends, continue straight ahead. About 10 minutes from the station, the road gradually becomes a slope. Soon, you’ll reach a fork where a staircase and a sloped path split. Follow the sign for “→ Satsukiyama Park” and take the stairs on the left to reach the park. The stairs are quite steep, so if you prefer an easier route, continue straight on the sloped detour instead. From Satsukiyama Park, the “Daimonji Course” hiking trail begins, leading toward Shubodai. Enjoy a pleasant 15-minute walk through nature, and you’ll arrive at the viewpoint. The entire journey from the station takes about 30 minutes, but since much of the route is uphill, it’s best to take breaks and walk at a comfortable pace. Shubodai is especially beautiful during twilight, just before and after sunset. The soft colors of the sky paired with the glowing city lights create a wonderfully romantic atmosphere. After dark, you’ll be treated to a dynamic nightscape featuring the lights of Ikeda City and the illuminated line of the Hanshin Expressway. You can see all the way to central Osaka, and just below the viewpoint lies Itami Airport, where planes taking off and landing create a magical, almost cinematic scene. It’s no surprise that Shubodai is a popular spot for couples looking for a romantic date. In spring, visitors can also enjoy cherry blossoms around the area. Along the way to Shubodai, you’ll find Satsukiyama Zoo—known as the second smallest zoo in Japan. Here, you can meet the adorable wombats that visitors love. (Since 2024 June, the zoo is open on a limited basis due to renovation work and requires advance reservation through a lottery system.) Near the zoo stands Ikeda Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Ikeda City and a place associated with the “Orihime Legend.” It’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a quiet visit while feeling the history and romance of the area. Back near Hankyu Ikeda Station, you’ll discover a lively traditional shopping street. It’s the perfect place to wrap up your walk—enjoy some local food, browse small shops, or pick up souvenirs to take home.   ▼For more restaurant information▼ 3 restaurants where you can eat plant-based food near CUPNOODLES MUSEUM in Osaka Ikeda Halal, vegan and vegetarian list in Ikeda, Osaka & recommended sightseeing spots to experience Japanese culture!   This guide introduced how to access Shubodai—one of the most popular scenic viewpoints in northern Osaka—along with useful information about the surrounding area. Spending time here while taking in the beautiful sunset and night views will surely become one of the most memorable moments of your trip.

Very popular in Japan! 4 strawberry afternoon tea recommendations around Osaka

“Afternoon tea” is now a popular trend in Japan! Afternoon tea originated in England, but Japanese afternoon tea is gaining popularity for its gorgeous appearance. Every year from December to spring, “strawberry” themed afternoon teas appear in hotels and cafes. Strawberries, with their eye-catching bright red color are one of the most popular afternoon teas of the year.   Therefore, this article introduces strawberry afternoon tea offered at hotels in Osaka and Hyogo, where you can enjoy an extraordinary experience.   *All photos are images.   -INDEX- 1.【Osaka Umeda】Hotel Hankyu International “Afternoon Tea Set -Supreme-“ 2.【Osaka Fukushima】Hotel Hanshin Osaka“Night Afternoon Tea -very berry night-” 3.【Hyogo Takarazuka】Takarazuka Hotel “Winter Afternoon Tea -berry×chocolate -” 4.【Osaka Fukushima】Hotel Hanshin Osaka“Winter Japanese Afternoon Tea -Nagomi-” Period: December 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026 ※Quantity limited   Begin your experience with a welcome drink at Hotel Hankyu International’s strawberry-themed afternoon tea. This winter, the tea set features two irresistible flavors—sweet strawberries and rich chocolate.   Even the savory selections use strawberries. Highlights include Strawberry & Tomato Soup with Cardamom and Framboise Macaron with Strawberry and Foie Gras Mousse. Beautifully presented, these five items are as delightful to look at as they are to taste. On the dessert tier, enjoy three strawberry sweets such as Strawberry Shortcake, Mini Strawberry Tart, and Strawberry Fairy Chocolate. These are joined by three indulgent chocolate treats—Classic Chocolate Cake, Gâteau Chocolat, and Chocolate Tartelettes. Plus, scones, snowball cookies, and more for a total of 11 mouth-watering items.   Afternoon tea is served with petit fours and free-flowing drink such as“JING TEA”, a tea brand founded in 2004. Period: December 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026 Closed: Sunday, Monday, Holidays   The strawberry and berry-themed afternoon tea served at Caballero, the bar on the 7th floor, is perfect for those who want to enjoy sweets with a drink. Available only after 5:00 p.m., the Night Afternoon Tea includes 8 sweets, 5 savory items, and your choice of either a glass of Champagne or a non-alcohol “Strawberry Tonic.” All of the savory dishes also feature strawberries, making them an ideal match for both Champagne and the non-alcoholic cocktail. For an additional charge, you can also order all-you-can-drink alcohol.   Enjoy a relaxing and elegant time as an adult in this hideaway-like space. Period: December 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026   Takarazuka Hotel is located next to Takarazuka Grand Theater. The elegant and classical space makes you feel as if you are the hero of a story.   Elegant afternoon tea is served in the lounge on the first floor. Sweets include eye-catching creations such as a berry mousse topped with a chocolate tiara and an orange & grape jelly served with a mask-shaped cookie—perfect treats to enjoy before or after a Takarazuka performance. While each item has visual impact, the overall design remains sophisticated and refined.   From the finely designed teapots to the matching cups and saucers, cutlery, and attentive staff service, a comfortable space has been created for wonderful tea time. Period: Weekdays only from November 4, 2025 to February 27, 2026 Closed: December 24/25, 2025 & January 1-4, 2026   At last, although not a strawberry afternoon tea, we would like to introduce you to a unique afternoon tea that will make your trip to Japan memorable!   Japanese Restaurant Hanaza, located on the second floor of Hotel Hanshin Osaka, offers Japanese-style afternoon tea on weekdays only.   The first thing that catches your eye is the luxurious three-tier presentation box. Inside, you’ll find beautifully crafted sweets like Peach Bean Paste with Hojicha Aroma on a Skewer and Matcha Terrine Chocolat, along with plain and sweet-potato scones accompanied by clotted cream and confiture. The savory selections include dishes such as Foie Gras Chawanmushi and Roast Beef, offering an elegant balance of flavors.     Afternoon tea with a Japanese theme is rare and generous in volume. Enjoy it with a free-flowing selection of Japanese teas. The ever-evolving Japanese afternoon tea continues to be a hot genre for sweets lovers! Catch the trend and enjoy a trip to Japan that is different from the others.

The 8 best winter illuminations in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe!

Are you wondering where to go sightseeing in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe in winter? In Japan, major illumination events will be held in various locations. Starting with Umeda, Osaka, the center of Kansai, historic buildings and symbols in Kyoto and Kobe will be decorated with gorgeous colors for a limited period of time. This year, Kobe’s traditional festival, which is filled with the prayers and hopes of the citizens of Kobe, will also make a comeback. Please be sure to include it in your travel plans.   ※All photos are for illustrative purposes only.   ＜Osaka＞Festival of the lights in OSAKA 2025 ＜Osaka Umeda＞UMEDA SKYBUILDING Christmas 2025 ＜Osaka Umeda＞GRAND FRONT OSAKA「GRAND WISH CHRISTMAS 2025」 ＜Osaka Umeda＞Champagne Gold Illumination in UMEKITA ＜Osaka Umeda＞UMEDA MEETS HEART 2025 ＜Osaka＞OSAKA CASTLE ILLUMINAGE 2025 ＜Kyoto＞NAKED meets NIJO-JO CATSLE 2025 KANGETSU ＜Kobe＞Kobe Christmas Market 2025 “Festival of the lights in OSAKA 2025” is a Major winter event that takes place in various locations throughout Osaka Prefecture!   「Midosuji Illumination 2025」April 9 (Wed)～December 31, 2025 (Wed) Midosuji Illumination 2025 will illuminate Midosuji, the iconic street connecting Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba, for a total length of 4 kilometers. This light path, spanning approximately 4 kilometers in length, is not only the japan’s longest but was also recognized as a world record in January 2015.   「OSAKA Hikari-Renaissance 2025」December 14 (Sat)～December 25, 2025 (Thu) OSAKA Hikari-Renaissance 2025 provides a stunning light display along the waterfront of Nakanoshima, Osaka’s symbol as a water city. The Osaka City Central Public Hall, a designated Important Cultural Property, is a must-see with its stunning 3D mapping LED display!   「Area Program」Event schedule varies by facility and installations Check the official website Venue: The Midosuji area (Hanshin Intersection～Namba West Exit Intersection), Osaka City Central Public Hall～Nakanoshima Park, Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, etc. Date: November 14 (Fri)～December 25, 2025 (Thu)   The Umeda Sky Building, one of Umeda’s top attractions, is hosting a dazzling illumination event. In the first-floor plaza, a symbolic tree standing about 25 meters tall and adorned with approximately 130,000 LED lights has been unveiled.    This year’s theme is ‘THE CIRCUS OF LIGHT ~ A Fantastical Circus Sparkling in the Night Sky~’. A dazzling and charming daytime circus, and a beautiful nighttime circus emerging from the darkness.   Original mugs, which were a big hit last year, also make great souvenirs.   Check the official website Date: November 6 (Thu)～December 25, 2025 (Thu) *Partially excluded   The giant Christmas tree at the Knowledge Plaza in the North Building of Grand Front Osaka amazes visitors each year with its enchanting design. This year’s tree, titled “Infinity Wish Tree,” features an interior and exterior wrapped in mirrored materials, creating a dazzling display that changes depending on your angle and the moment.  Stand in front of the triangular objects surrounding the tree, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a kaleidoscope! It’s also a fantastic photo spot. The lighting show enhances the magical atmosphere with colors shifting between yellow, red, and blue, wrapping the space in an even more enchanting glow.   Venue: Grand Front Osaka North/South Building, Umekita Plaza, etc. Lighting show: 16:00〜24:00 on Weekdays, 15:00〜24:00 on Weekends and Holidays *Every 15 mins (Last show at 23:45) Date: November 6, 2025 (Thu)～february 28, 2026 (Sat)    The “Umekita Area” illumination event, located north of JR Osaka Station, is a must-see. In addition to Grand Front Osaka, parts of the recently opened Grand Green Osaka and Umekita Park are adorned with approximately 250,000 LED lights. The elegant champagne gold glow creates a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.   Venue: Grand Front Umekita Plaza, Grand Green Osaka Umekita Park, etc. Date: December 1 (Mon)～December 25, 2025 (Thu)   This year marks the sixth iteration of the event, themed “Five Hearts. Circulating Umeda”.   The main event, “HEART FES”, runs for two days from Saturday, December 13th to Sunday, December 14th. It features Christmas concerts, workshops, marching performances, and more across five areas of Umeda.   Additionally, “HEART SPOT” sees 47 facilities throughout Umeda joining forces to decorate the entire city with ‘hearts’ and “illuminations”.   Venue: Umeda area Date: November 1, 2025 (Fri)～February 1, 2026 (Sun)   Osaka Castle’s Nishinomaru Garden lights up with approximately 3.5 million LEDs, set against the majestic backdrop of the castle keep. The illumination features motifs like shoguns, samurai, and helmets, showcasing Osaka’s history from the Sengoku period to the present. It brings the memories of the Warring States period back to life on a breathtaking scale.The Lantern Corridor, layered with Japan’s unique aesthetic sensibility and history, makes its appearance. Countless lanterns stand in orderly rows, creating a fantastical and solemn path of light. The Lantern Corridor, layered with Japan’s unique aesthetic sensibility and history, makes its appearance. Countless lanterns stand in orderly rows, creating a fantastical and solemn path of light.   Venue: Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Garden Date: October 31, 2025 (Fri)～December 7, 2025 (Sun)   The moon admired by the people of Nijo-jo Castle during the Edo period. This autumn-only, nighttime-limited art exhibition revives its elegance through the fusion of light and traditional culture.   Check the official website Venue: Nijo-jo Castle Date: November 8 (Sat)～December 25, 2025 (Thu)   A special Christmas event takes place at the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, located at an elevation of approximately 400 meters. Enjoy breathtaking views of Kobe’s nightscape alongside the garden’s original decorated tower, making it a perfect photo spot! Located just a short distance from Kobe’s city center and the Kitano Ijinkan area, it’s an ideal spot to combine with your Kobe sightseeing plans.   Venue: Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway ➡Check here for details   ▼Check these articles▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street: Various Kitchenware Only in Japan

Located in Osaka’s bustling Minami district, Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street is lined with specialty stores selling all kinds of cooking and kitchen tools. Known as the go-to shopping street where restaurant owners can find everything they need for their businesses, it’s beloved not only by professionals but also by home cooking enthusiasts. In recent years, items such as traditional Japanese kitchen knives and other finely crafted utensils have gained attention as examples of Japan’s meticulous craftsmanship, making the street a popular destination among international visitors.  Here’s your guide to enjoying Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street and its recommended shops.   Index 1. What is Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street? 2. How to Get to Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street 3. Kitchenware You Can Find at Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street 4. Recommended Shops at Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street 5. Food Sample-Making Experience at Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street boasts a history of more than 130 years. Stretching about 150 meters under a covered arcade, the street is lined with specialty shops selling everything from kitchen tools like pots and pans to cooking utensils such as knives, as well as tableware and realistic food samples. Traditionally known as a go-to shopping spot for professional chefs, today it also offers a wide range of tools for home use—welcoming everyone from seasoned cooks to beginners. It’s truly a paradise for anyone who loves cooking.   While opening hours vary by shop, most are open from around 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Simply strolling through the street is enjoyable, but when you visit, be sure to find your favorite kitchen tools to take home. Here are the main ways to access Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street, a popular sightseeing spot conveniently located in the heart of Osaka Namba area.   〇 From Osaka Metro Midosuji Line “Namba” Station (about a 3-minute walk) Exit from E-3 and go up to street level. Enter the Nankai-dori Shopping Street, then turn right at the first intersection. When you see the large “道” sign for Doguyasuji Shopping Street ahead, you’ve arrived.   〇 From Osaka Metro Sennichimae Line / Kintetsu Namba Line “Nippombashi” Station (about a 5-minute walk) Exit from Exit B-21 and head south through Minami Sennichimae Shopping Street. When you spot the “道” sign of Doguyasuji Shopping Street in front of you, you’ve reached your destination.   〇 From Osaka Metro Midosuji Line “Osaka-Umeda” Station (about 15 minutes by train and on foot) Take a southbound train toward Nakamozu/Tennoji and get off at Namba Station. From Exit E-3, go up to street level and enter Nankai-dori Shopping Street. Turn right at the first intersection, and when you see the “道” sign for Doguyasuji Shopping Street, you’ve arrived. Here are some of the unique kitchen items you can find at Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street. First, you’ll discover a wide selection of kitchen utensils essential for cooking—from large commercial stock pots used for soups and stews to frying pans perfect for home use. Japanese knives, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, are not only beautiful but also renowned for their exceptional sharpness. These knives have earned such a strong reputation that chefs from around the world visit Doguyasuji to purchase them. You’ll also find a wide variety of beautiful tableware, including elegant glass dishes and ceramic bowls and teacups featuring distinctive Japanese patterns. Many shops offer bulk purchasing options, making it easy to buy both for personal use and as gifts. One of the most fascinating highlights of the street is the food samples—lifelike replicas of dishes such as sushi, takoyaki, parfaits, and fruit desserts often displayed at restaurant entrances. Their realistic appearance makes them popular as unique souvenirs.   You’ll also find traditional Japanese shop signs and noren curtains, ranging from stylish signs for restaurants and bars to classic red lanterns bearing menu items like oden and kushikatsu. These items perfectly capture the charm of Japanese design and culture. Personalized engraving available! Knife specialty store “Sakai Ichimonji Mitsuhide” Sakai Ichimonji Mitsuhide is a renowned knife shop that brings together the craftsmanship of skilled artisans from Sakai, Osaka — a city famous for its cutlery. The shop offers an impressive lineup of over 2,000 types of knives, including traditional Japanese knives, Western-style knives, and household kitchen knives. You can also take advantage of their engraving service to personalize your purchase and create a one-of-a-kind knife. A wide selection of signs! Fun just to browse at “DOMOLABO” Located in the heart of Doguyasuji, DOMOLABO is instantly recognizable by the many signs displayed in front of the store. From traditional Japanese andon paper lantern signs to banners and menu stands, the shop offers a fascinating variety that’s fun to explore. You can even order custom-made signs, combining materials, printing styles, and designs to suit your own unique needs. A wide variety of food samples at “Design Pocket” At Design Pocket, you can try your hand at making realistic food samples such as takoyaki and sushi under the guidance of skilled artisans. This hands-on experience offers a fun way to learn about Japanese culture, making it a popular spot among international visitors. Why not challenge yourself to create your own unique food sample souvenir?   〈Example of a food sample-making experience〉 Takoyaki keychain & magnet Participation fee: ¥2,980 Duration: 30–45 minutes Reception hours: 10:00–17:00 We’ve introduced some must-buy kitchen tools and recommended shops along Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street. With its impressive lineup trusted by culinary professionals, this street is not only a paradise for cooking enthusiasts but also a fun sightseeing spot in itself. Next time you’re in Osaka’s Minami area, be sure to drop by and explore!   ▼Check the article▼ 6 Must-Try Experiences in Osaka: Dive into Local Life and Japanese Culture Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower Complete Guide | Access, Food, and Experiences

Nakanoshima Park and Recommended Nearby Attractions

Nakanoshima Park is one of Osaka’s most iconic parks, located in the heart of the city’s business district. Beloved by locals as a relaxing urban retreat, the park is especially famous for its rose garden, which reaches full bloom in spring and autumn. In addition to its natural beauty, visitors can enjoy stylish cafés and world-class art at the Nakanoshima Museum of Art. Here’s a complete guide to the charm of Nakanoshima and its surroundings.   Index 1. What is Nakanoshima Park 2. How to Get to Nakanoshima Park 3. Nakanoshima Park: An Urban Oasis with Seasonal Flowers 4. Recommended Spots Around Nakanoshima Park Established in 1891 as Osaka City’s first public park, Nakanoshima Park is a historic green oasis stretching about 1.5 kilometers between the Dōjima and Tosabori Rivers, covering an area of 11.3 hectares. Surrounded by lush greenery, the park offers a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.   Around the park, you’ll find beautiful historic architecture such as the Osaka Central Public Hall and the Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library, both designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. From Yodoyabashi to Higobashi, the 400-meter-long Nakanoshima Promenade is lined with zelkova, camellia, and azalea trees, as well as ten expressive sculptures that make for a peaceful and scenic walking route.   Within the park, both the rose garden and the Nakanoshima Library are free to visit, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy Osaka’s culture and nature. You can easily reach Nakanoshima Park directly by train from major hubs such as Osaka Station or Namba Station. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Yodoyabashi Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, or a 3-minute walk from Exit 26 of Kitahama Station on the Keihan Line or Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line.   There is no official parking lot at Nakanoshima Park. While there are several coin-operated parking spaces nearby, visitors are encouraged to use public transportation for the most convenient access. Nakanoshima Park is one of Osaka’s most famous rose gardens. Stretching about 500 meters east to west across a 13,000-square-meter area, it features around 310 varieties and 3,700 rose bushes in full bloom. The best times to visit are from early May to early June and from late October to mid-November.   Just one stop from Osaka-Umeda Station, this urban oasis in the heart of the business district is perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic. Bring along a bento lunch and enjoy it in the park for a refreshing break in the middle of the city.   ▼Check these article▼ [2025] The best time to see flowers is from April to May! 12 spots to enjoy spring flowers in Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe area)! 12 Best Autumn Flowers Japan｜Rose, Dalia, Cosmos And Kochia In addition, “The Festival of Lights in Osaka”, a signature winter event held across various locations in Osaka, also takes place at Nakanoshima. The area serves as one of the core venues for “OSAKA Hikari Renaissance”, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Nakanoshima not only during the day but also at night, when the park is illuminated with dazzling light displays.   ▼For more info▼ ＜Osaka Umeda＞ Festival of the lights in OSAKA 2025 〇Nakanoshima Museum of Art   The Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka stands out among the surrounding office buildings with its striking, jet-black cube-shaped architecture. The museum houses a collection of around 6,000 works, focusing on major Japanese and international art and design pieces from the late 19th century to the present day, and regularly hosts diverse exhibitions. Among its highlights is the exceptional collection of works by Yuzo Saeki, an artist deeply connected to Osaka, which is regarded as one of the finest in scale and quality.   The first and second floors feature free-access areas, allowing visitors to enter freely for a short rest, a meeting spot, or simply to appreciate the building’s architecture. Blending art and architecture, the museum serves as a new cultural landmark in Osaka. 〇Nakanoshima Children’s Book Forest   Nakanoshima Children’s Book Forest is a unique cultural facility created to inspire children to explore books freely and nurture their boundless imagination and curiosity. Its collection includes not only picture books but also encyclopedias, children’s literature, cookbooks, and art books.   The building—instantly recognizable for the blue apple sculpture at its entrance terrace—was designed and donated to the city of Osaka by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, who was born in Osaka.   Admission is free, and while same-day entry is possible depending on availability, advance online reservations are recommended to ensure entry.   [How to Make an Online Reservation for Nakanoshima Children’s Book Forest] ・Capacity: 100 visitors per session (complete turnover system) ・Reservations open at 10:00 a.m. 14 days before your visit ・Up to 5 people can be reserved per booking ・Cancellations or changes can be made up to 15 minutes before your reserved time *Children aged 3 and above count toward the total number of visitors. Children aged 2 and under do not need to be included. ▶Click here to access the advance reservation site   ▼Tadao Ando Architecture Highlights in Kansai▼ 6 Tadao Ando Buildings You Should Visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe 〇Nakanoshima River Cruise   Hop aboard the Nakanoshima River Cruise and experience the charm of “Water City Osaka” from a completely new perspective. Glide gracefully along the river while taking in stunning views of illuminated bridges, retro architecture, and sleek modern skyscrapers in the Nakanoshima West area—an elegant fusion of the old and new that creates a breathtaking evening skyline.   The cruise features a small luxury limousine boat with comfortable sofa seating, offering a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere in the heart of the city. Sit back and enjoy a 20-minute urban cruise that showcases Osaka’s riverside beauty at its finest.   As seating is limited, advance online reservations—available up to three months in advance—are highly recommended. On weekends and national holidays, cruises typically operate 1–2 times per hour from 2:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., but please check the latest updates for the most accurate schedule. The Nakanoshima River Cruise also offers a special cherry blossom course from late March to early April, when the sakura are in full bloom. This limited-time 50-minute cruise lets you admire rows of Somei Yoshino cherry trees from the water—an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Osaka’s spring scenery.   ■Cruise Fare (Approx. 20-Minute Course)   Adults: ¥2,000   Students: ¥1,000 Children (Elementary school age and under): Free   ※Student fare applies to junior high, high school, university, and vocational school students (student ID required).   ※One child per paying adult is free. For each additional child, a ¥500 fare applies. ▶ Reserve your cruise here 〇Kitahama Terrace   The Osaka Kawadoko Kitahama Terrace is located along the Tosabori River across from Nakanoshima Park, near Kitahama Station. Around 15 cafés and restaurants feature open-air terrace seating, offering a relaxing riverside dining experience. Enjoy a leisurely café time while taking in the retro cityscape of Nakanoshima and the gentle flow of the river. 〇Enjoy the Cafe and Dessert   ■Kitahama Area Across the Tosabori River from Nakanoshima Park lies the Kitahama area, home to a number of well-known patisseries, including the flagship store of GOKAN Kitahama Main Shop. Many cafés in this district are housed in stately retro buildings, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing tea time while soaking in the romantic atmosphere of the Taisho era.   ■Yodoyabashi Area Located at the eastern end of Nakanoshima Park, Yodoyabashi is the heart of Osaka’s business district, yet it’s also rich in historic architecture and refined cafés. From long-established coffee shops with a calm ambiance to elegant lounge cafés, the area offers peaceful escapes from the city bustle. You’ll also find renowned teppanyaki and Japanese restaurants, perfect for a more refined dining experience.   The “urban oasis” of Nakanoshima Park is filled with charm that deserves more than just a quick visit. Start your morning with a leisurely stroll through the rose garden or along the riverside, then enjoy a refined breakfast at a retro-style café. Spend the afternoon immersed in art and culture at the museum or library, and as evening falls, take a river cruise to admire the illuminated cityscape. Blending history, art, and nature in perfect harmony, this area engages all the senses and leaves lasting memories of Osaka. So grab your camera and set out to discover your own story in Nakanoshima.   ▼Check these articles▼ 3 Days in Osaka! The Best Way to Enjoy Osaka for the First Time  

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