Fukushima, Only One Stop from Osaka Station: Discover Hidden Backstreet Gems Loved by Locals

Just one train stop from Osaka Station, Fukushima is a vibrant neighborhood packed with a wide variety of dining options. Step into its backstreets, and you’ll discover unique, character-filled eateries with a local vibe offering a completely different atmosphere from the bustling Osaka Umeda area. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best spots to explore in the Fukushima area.   Index 1. Where is Osaka Fukushima? 2. Fukumaru Dori (Street) 57: A lively spot with charming terrace seating 3. Hankyu Oasis: A casual place to enjoy drinks with a spacious eat-in area 4. Recommended hotels in Fukushima Located just one train stop from JR Osaka Station and Hanshin Osaka-Umeda Station, Fukushima is also within a 15–20 minute walk. It’s conveniently close to the trendy new spot “Grand Green Osaka” near JR Osaka Station. The area around the station is packed with dining options, ranging from casual local izakaya frequented by residents to stylish restaurants. With its wide variety of eateries, Fukushima has become a popular neighborhood for food lovers seeking a more local and diverse dining scene. Just a 3-minute walk from JR Fukushima Station, Fukumaru Dori 57 stretches beneath the elevated tracks of the JR Osaka Loop Line. Lined with unique izakaya and bars, it’s an exciting spot where simply strolling through the street lifts your mood. One of its highlights is the terrace seating inspired by a blend of Spanish bar culture and Japan’s traditional alleyway dining scene. You can enjoy dishes purchased from the bar and café area in this open, relaxed setting. Whether it’s an afternoon or a lively evening, the atmosphere changes throughout the day, making it a place you’ll want to visit more than once. A community-focused supermarket chain with locations across Kansai, including Osaka and Hyogo, Hankyu Oasis is operated by the same group as Hankyu Department Store. Known for its high-quality fresh produce and wide selection of deli items, it’s a supermarket filled with both great taste and variety. Located on the west side of Fukumaru Dori 57, the Hankyu Oasis Fukumaru Dori 57 Store spans two floors. On the second floor, you’ll find a 50-seat eat-in space where you can enjoy items purchased in-store—such as prepared foods and drinks—in a casual, bar-like setting. There’s also a self-service coffee machine, making it a convenient spot for a quick café break as well. Conveniently located just one stop from JR Osaka Station, Fukushima offers a शांत and relaxed atmosphere despite its central location—making it an ideal area to stay during your Osaka trip. Here are some recommended hotels around Fukushima Station: Located right in front of JR Fukushima Station, Hotel Hanshin Osaka is known for its natural hot spring baths available in every guest room. Rooms on the higher floors (14th floor and above) offer beautiful city views. The hotel also features a variety of dining options, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. The newly opened steakhouse “Roin,” launched in April 2026, has been gaining attention. Situated along Fukumaru Dori 57, Hotel Hanshin Annex Osaka features interiors inspired by traditional Japanese colors, patterns, and materials. A highlight is the photogenic spot in the second-floor lobby, decorated with rotating lantern displays. The hotel blends modern comfort with Japanese aesthetics and offers convenient amenities for longer stays, including a 24-hour free ironing room and a self-service laundry facility. In this guide, we introduced Fukumaru Dori 57, a unique spot in Osaka’s Fukushima area where restaurants, a supermarket, and hotels come together in one lively hub. Known for its abundance of dining options, Fukushima is also a great choice for your stay in Osaka. Be sure to consider it for your next trip!

10 Best Places to see Hydrangea in Kansai

Hydrangea is a seasonal flower which is native to Japan and there are more than 50 diverse varieties of this flower. In Japan, a rainy season called Tsuyu starts around mid-June, and actually many people hate this season because of this gloomy weather. However, at the same time, you can feel many Japanese attractions which can’t be found in any other season, and Hydrangea is one of them.   The best time to visit is generally during the rainy season, from early June to early July.   Hydrangea flowers change color depending on the acidity of the soil. We will introduce spots in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo where various kinds of hydrangeas such as blue, purple and pink bloom. <Table of Contents> 【Osaka, Suita】Expo ’70 Commemorative Park 【Osaka, Ikeda】Kyuan-ji Temple 【Kyoto, Ukyo-ku】Umenomiya-taisha Shrine 【Kyoto, Nishikyo-ku】Yoshimine Temple 【Kyoto, Nagaokakyo】Yanagitani-Kannon 【Hyogo, Kawanishi】Shounsan Raikouji Temple 【Hyogo, Kobe】Kobe Municipal Arboretum 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Cable Car 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE About 4,000 hydrangeas of about 30 varieties, including Western hydrangeas and Yaenoamacha, will be in full bloom at the Hydrangea Forest in the Nature Park of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Enjoy the fantastic space surrounded by diverse hydrangeas in red, blue, pink, etc.   Best time to view: Mid-June   ▼Check out this article▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Kyuan-ji Temple has a path of hydrangeas so overgrown that they hide people. The gradation of hydrangeas on both sides of the path is a feast for the eyes. Floating hydrangeas on the pond are also popular as they look great on Instagram. The “Ajisai-Ukabe” usually held from mid to late June is even more impressive than the “Hana-Chozu”(flower water with handkerchiefs)!   For a limited time, they are offering “paper-cut goshuin” featuring hydrangea motifs.   Best time to view: Mid-June to early July   ▼Click here for information on recommended restaurants and popular museums in Ikeda▼ 3 restaurants where you can eat plant-based food near CUPNOODLES MUSEUM in Osaka Ikeda At Umenomiya Taisha Shrine, visitors can enjoy approximately 140 varieties of unique hydrangeas from the East Shrine Garden to the North Shrine Garden. You can also appreciate Hanashoubu, which blooms at the same time of the year. Best time to view: Mid-June Located in the precincts of Yoshimine Temple halfway up the mountain is the Hakusan Hydrangea Garden, which boasts an area of 3,000 tsubo (about 1,000 square meters). About 8,000 hydrangea plants, including gaku hydrangea, color the entire slope of the garden.   Best time to view: Late-June   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Visitors to Yanagitani Kannon can enjoy a cluster of about 5,000 hydrangea plants, including Japanese and Western hydrangeas. The hydrangea corridor in the precincts of the temple allows visitors to view the hydrangeas at their leisure without getting wet, even if it is raining. Yanagitani Kannon is famous for its “Hana-Chozu” (flower water with handkerchiefs). Many visitors come to the temple for Hana-Chozu, which is decorated with colorful seasonal flowers.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Late-June Shounzan Raikoji Temple is commonly called “Hydrangea Temple”. About 500 plants, including Western hydrangeas lovingly nurtured by the temple’s priests, bloom in large profusion. Take a stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the different colors of the flowers.   Best time to view: Late-June The Kobe City Forest Botanical Garden is home to many rare hydrangeas, such as the fantastic Shichidanka flower and the clustered white Annabelle. The forest of approximately 50,000 hydrangeas of about 350 varieties is a sight to behold.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, located near the top of Mt. Rokko, 865 m above sea level, the “Shichidanka” hydrangea, said to be a phantom hydrangea, blooms. Characterized by its double-petaled flowers with overlapping petals, visitors can enjoy its pretty purple appearance. Also recommended is the “Hydrangea Garden,” where a wide variety of hydrangeas bloom, including the “Himehydrangea,” the city flower of Kobe City.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July The Rokko cable is a rare spot where you can enjoy hydrangeas while riding the cable car. The beautiful blue coloring of the hydrangea is known as “Rokko Blue”.   Starting from the hydrangea at the lower station of the cable car, more than 2,500 hydrangeas in total will be in full bloom from early to mid-July. The cable car has a lovely retro body, and from inside you can enjoy the view of the city of Kobe and the sea.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July Located on top of Mt. Rokko, where the temperature is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, the hydrangeas are at their best about a month later than in the city, and more than 350 hydrangeas of more than 20 varieties can be enjoyed. The southern German-style building and the harmony with the surrounding nature provide an extraordinary experience and a peaceful space where visitors can appreciate the flowers in a more natural state.   Best time to view: Late-June to Late-July Flowering conditions may vary depending on the weather. Please check SNS for the latest blooming status.   ▼Check out this article▼ Enjoy “sound” in the great outdoors Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE Hydrangeas shine in the rain. Feel the change of the season by looking at the pretty blue, purple, and pink flowers.

[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!

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