[2025] The best time to see flowers is from April to May! 11 spots to enjoy 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 [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.   About 1 million nemophila plants are in full bloom on an approximately 44,000 m2 site along the sea overlooking the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge. On Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, the opening hours are extended so that visitors can enjoy the orange flowers and the setting sun over the nemophila fields. There will also be limited-edition gourmet foods that can only be enjoyed here. The most popular item is the soft-serve ice cream, which is a lovely pale blue color like the nemophila flowers. It is recommended to take a picture of the soft-serve ice cream with the nemophila field in the background. The “Kitchen Car Fest in Maishima” will be held at the same time in the park. About 15 kitchen cars from all over Japan will gather to offer visitors the opportunity to taste a variety of Japanese gourmet foods. 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 this area.   Nemophila Festival: 2025 has been cancelled due to the Osaka-Kansai Expo, and will be held again in 2026. Usual viewing time: early 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?

[Kyoto-kawaramachi & Karasuma] Convenient Baggage Delivery & Storage at the Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center!

When visiting Kyoto’s famous sightseeing spots, traveling by bus or subway is often necessary. However, carrying large luggage can be inconvenient. Many visitors may be looking for services that allow them to store or deliver their luggage.   This article introduces the convenient “hands-free travel” service, including same-day baggage delivery and temporary baggage storage, which is available at the Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Centers in Kyoto-kawaramachi and Karasuma.   Index Locations of “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI” and “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KARASUMA” Services Offered at “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI” and “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KARASUMA” What is Same-Day Delivery Service at “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI” When to Use the Same-Day Delivery Service at “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI” 1.When arriving in Kyoto 2.When staying in Osaka after sightseeing in Kyoto 3.The day of/before returning Overview of the Same-Day Delivery Service at “HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI” Delivery Areas Baggage Eligible for Same-Day Delivery Reception & Delivery Hours Service Fees Service Period Convenient Temporary Baggage Storage at HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI and KYOTO-KARASUMA Parcel Delivery Services at HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI and KYOTO-KARASUMA Details of HANKYU Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI and KYOTO-KARASUMA Coin Lockers Available in Kyoto Area Recommended Sightseeing Spots After Dropping Off Your Luggage Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto-kawaramachi is located right outside the central ticket gate of Hankyu Kyoto Line’s Kyoto-kawaramachi Station. Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Open year-round)   Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center Karasuma is located right outside the west ticket gate of Hankyu Kyoto Line’s Karasuma Station. From JR Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto Municipal Subway to Shijo Station, exit through the north gate, and go up the stairs. It is about a 1-minute walk from the north gate. Hankyu Kyoto-kawaramachi Station and Hankyu Karasuma Station are connected via an underground floor where the ticket gates are located, and it takes about 10 minutes to walk between them.   Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Open year-round)   Both Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center Kawaramachi and Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center Karasuma are located underground. Above ground, Kawaramachi Street runs east to west through the heart of Kyoto. ・Multilingual support (English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese) ・Discounted ticket sales ・Baggage storage ・Same-day delivery service (Kawaramachi only) ・Baggage delivery service ・Distribution of sightseeing brochures ・Wi-Fi access and Wi-Fi router rental (Kawaramachi only)   At these information centers, you can ask staff directly for assistance, find information that may be difficult to locate on your smartphone, or request luggage delivery. It’s a great resource to make your trip more convenient, so be sure to keep it in mind. Among the various services available, let’s take a closer look at the Same-Day Delivery Service offered at Hankyu Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI.   With this service, luggage deposited at the center before the designated time will be delivered the same day to designated hotels within Kyoto City or Osaka City.   Additionally, deliveries to Kansai International Airport are available, with luggage arriving the following morning from 7:00 AM onward. ・Start sightseeing immediately upon arrival without carrying luggage ・Avoid the hassle of carrying large bags on crowded buses, subways, and shopping streets ・Save time by skipping trips to coin lockers to retrieve luggage   This allows you to make the most of your time in Japan. 1. Using the service on the day of arrival in Kyoto Morning: Drop off luggage at Hankyu Tourist Information Center, Kyoto-kawaramachi ↓ Enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto without luggage ↓ Check in to a hotel in Kyoto ↓ Receive luggage at the hotel 2. Using the service when traveling from Kyoto to Osaka Morning: Drop off luggage at Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center – Kawaramachi ↓ Enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto or Osaka without luggage ↓ Check in to a hotel in Osaka ↓ Receive luggage at the hotel 3. Using the service before returning home  Morning (the day before departure): Drop off large luggage (e.g., suitcases) at Hankyu Tourist Information Center, Kyoto-kawaramachi ↓ Enjoy sightseeing freely with only an overnight bag until your departure ↓ On departure day, pick up your luggage at Kansai International Airport How does that sound? Can you imagine how much more comfortable your trip would be with this service? Delivery Areas Luggage deposited at the Hankyu Tourist Information Center, Kyoto-kawaramachi can be delivered on the same day to hotels or guesthouses in Kyoto or Osaka.   Delivery Areas Major Stations/Tourist Spots Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Keihan Sanjo Station/Gion-Shijo Station/Kiyomizu-Gojo Station/Shichijo Station/Tofukuji Station, etc. Minami Ward, Kyoto Kintetsu Toji Station/Jujo Station, etc. Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Oike Station/Marutamachi Station/Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae (Kyoto City Hall)/Nijojo-mae Station, JR Nijo Station, etc. Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto JR Kyoto Station, Hankyu Karasuma Station/Kyoto-kawaramachi Station, Kyoto Municipal Subway Gojo Station, Keifuku Arashiyama Line Shijo-Omiya Station, etc. Kita Ward, Osaka JR Osaka Station, Hankyu Osaka-umeda Station, Hanshin Osaka-Umeda Station, Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line Nakazakicho Station, Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, etc. Nishi Ward, Osaka Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line Higobashi Station/Yotsubashi Station, Osaka Metro Chuo Line Awaza Station/Kujo Station, etc. Konohana Ward, Osaka JR Nishi-Kujo Station/Ajikawaguchi Station/Sakurajima Station, Universal Studios Japan, etc. Naniwa Ward, Osaka JR Namba Station, JR Shin-Imamiya Station, Tsutenkaku Tower, Den Den Town (Nihonbashi), etc. Chuo Ward, Osaka Osaka Metro Midosuji Line Hommachi Station/Shinsaibashi Station/Namba Station, Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line Kitahama Station/Sakaisuji-Hommachi Station, Kintetsu Nihonbashi Station, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, etc. Kansai International Airport Terminal 1 (4F departure floor) *baggage pickup available from 7:00 AM the next day   [Notes] *Delivery is limited to accommodation facilities only (excluding Kansai International Airport). *For accommodations without on-site staff, such as private lodgings, baggage will be delivered to the nearest Yamato Transport office on the same day.   ・Baggage Eligible for Same-Day Delivery   Certain restrictions apply to the baggage that can be delivered. Be sure to check in advance: ・Total dimensions of 200cm or less (sum of three sides) ・Weight of 30kg or less ・Value of 300,000 yen or less ・Reception & Delivery Hours   Check the following for the operation hours for baggage delivery service.   Reception Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM Delivery Hours: Arrive by 8:00 PM on the same day   ・Service Fees   The usage fees are as follows. Payment methods include cash and cashless options such as credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments.   【Kyoto City→Kyoto City】 Size (Total of Three Dimensions) 60cm/2kg 80cm/5kg 100cm/10kg 120cm/15kg 140cm/20kg 160cm/25kg 180cm/30kg 200cm/30kg Fee ¥1,340 ¥1,630 ¥1,930 ¥2,250 ¥2,590 ¥2,910 ¥3,460 ¥4,120   【Kyoto City→Osaka City】 Size (Total of Three Dimensions) 60cm/2kg 80cm/5kg 100cm/10kg 120cm/15kg 140cm/20kg 160cm/25kg 180cm/30kg 200cm/30kg Fee ¥1,840 ¥2,130 ¥2,430 ¥2,750 ¥3,090 ¥3,410 ¥3,960 ¥4,620   【Kyoto City→Kansai International Airport】 Size (Total of Three Dimensions) 60cm/2kg 80cm/5kg 100cm/10kg 120cm/15kg 140cm/20kg 160cm/25kg 180cm/30kg 200cm/30kg Fee ¥2,500 ¥2,790 ¥3,090 ¥3,410 ¥3,750 ¥4,070 ¥4,620 ¥5,280   ・Service Period   The same-day baggage delivery service is available for a limited time to coincide with the Osaka-Kansai EXPO.   <Baggage Delivery Service Period> January 15, 2025 (Wednesday) – October 31, 2025 (Friday) At Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto-kawaramachi and Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Karasuma, the temporary luggage storage service is available.   Not only are these locations highly convenient, but unlike coin lockers, there are no size restrictions, making them an excellent choice for travelers!   Service Hours: Available during the business hours of Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto-kawaramachi and Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Karasuma.   Fee: ¥700 per item per day  *An additional ¥700 per day for extended storage (no limit on the number of days) This service is perfect for those who want to explore hands-free on arrival, departure, or transit days!   Additionally, long-term storage is available. For example, you can leave large luggage at one of the centers and take a short trip to destinations like Hiroshima, Okayama, or Kanazawa with just a small bag.   For those heading to Osaka, the Hankyu Tourist Center Osaka-umeda also offers same-day delivery and temporary baggage storage services—be sure to check it out! At Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto-kawaramachi and Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Karasuma, you can also ship suitcases, souvenirs, and other items nationwide via next-day delivery service. Service Hours: Available during the business hours of Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto-kawaramachi and Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Karasuma.   Please note that the pricing for this service differs from the same-day delivery service mentioned earlier. For details, please check with each tourist information center. In addition to the Hands-Free Sightseeing Service (same-day delivery and temporary luggage storage), you can find more details about the services available at Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KAWARAMACHI and Hankyu Kyoto Tourist Information Center, KYOTO-KARASUMA on their official website. https://www.hankyu.co.jp/en/station/tourist_center/index.html Lastly, let’s introduce coin lockers in the Kyoto area. There is a website called “ecbo cloak” that allows you to check the locations and availability of coin lockers around Kawaramachi, Karasuma, and JR Kyoto Station. The website also offers a reservation function for luggage storage services. If you’re looking for a coin locker or a temporary luggage storage option, be sure to check out “ecbo cloak” for useful information. Click here for “ecbo cloak” Our website, “Enjoy! OSAKA KYOTO KOBE”, provides sightseeing and gourmet information in Kyoto, as well as travel tips for international visitors to Osaka and Kobe.   Be sure to check out the articles below for more recommendations!   Take Kyo-Train Garaku to Osaka [2025] 7 Best Breakfasts in Kyoto | Near JR Kyoto Station and Popular Tourist Attractions Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Why is Miyama-cho, Kyoto recommended for overseas tourists? Must-visit! 12 World Heritage Sites in Kyoto

GRAND GREEN OSAKA, New Landmark of Osaka Umeda! Highlights, Shops and Restaurants

Do you know? A brand new landmark called GRAND GREEN OSAKA had its grand opening in September, 2024. Located in the center of Osaka Umeda, it soon became a major buzzing topic among locals in the Kansai region and is worth visiting for overseas customers as well. This article will introduce everything you want to know about Grand Green Osaka, including shops, restaurants, cafés and so on.   ＜Index＞ What is Grand Green Osaka? Grand Green Osaka Highlights [1]: The Must-See Urban Oasis Park! Grand Green Osaka Highlights [2]: Engaging Activities to Try Grand Green Osaka Highlights [3]: Premium Coffee and Unique Cafés & Shops 　LOHE 　ISLAND STYLE CAFE & GRILL Koko Head cafe OSAKA     CRAFT BEER BASE leaf     Time Out Market OSAKA Grand Green Osaka Highlights [4]: Largest Urban SPA in Kansai Newly-opened Hotel at Grand Green Osaka   “Grand Green Osaka” is a large-scale mixed-use development project in the Umekita area, with its full opening planned for 2027. Located north of JR Osaka Station, Umekita is home to Grand Green Osaka, positioned right in the heart of this vibrant district. Adjacent to the popular Umeda Sky Building – a landmark familiar to many international visitors – Grand Green Osaka adds an exciting new destination to explore in Umeda.     In 2024, part of Grand Green Osaka opened to the public ahead of schedule, and on March 21, 2025, its south building has been opened. It quickly attracted crowds, becoming one of the hottest spots in the Kansai area. A new city park, “Umekita Park,” has opened, spanning around 45,000 square meters and is one of the world’s largest city parks directly connected to a terminal station. In the bustling city of Osaka’s Umeda area, known for its towering skyscrapers, there’s never been a park of this size where people can gather and relax. The opening of Umekita Park is a game-changer for locals who frequent Umeda and quickly became a hot topic on social media. The lush Umekita Park features a distinctive, curved landscape design and includes a lawn plaza, colorful garden, event space, and Café. Among its highlights is a symbolic 120-meter-long canopy designed by the renowned architectural unit SANAA, creating a striking visual landmark for the park. Umekita Park also offers breathtaking open views of the cityscape. Especially at dusk, the sight is magical as the sun and clouds reflect off towering buildings like the Umeda Sky Building and other nearby skyscrapers, creating a captivating, dreamlike scene. The sparkling night views are also a highlight! Be sure to add this new nighttime activity to your list of things to enjoy in Osaka Umeda.   Stop by in the middle of your sightseeing, relax alongside locals, and capture some photos to make your visit truly memorable. The museum VS., envisioned by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, serves as a cultural hub located below LOHE. Spanning a vast 1,400 square meters, its dynamic exhibition spaces (studios) offer immersive visual experiences, performances, and large-scale installations. Impressively, it attracted over 50,000 visitors within the first month of opening – a must-see spot!   *Photos were taken at the time of opening, and exhibit content may vary by event. Grand Green Osaka also offers a variety of gourmet spots, perfect for lunch, coffee breaks, or dinner. Let’s check out some of the highlights! LOHE is a world-class coffee shop known for high-quality coffee and coffee cocktails. Their special coffee served 10,000yen for a glass has been a hot topic. They use rare beans called Panama Finca Deborah Elipse which are used at international competitions. The coffee’s flavor profile evolves with temperature, ensuring a delicious experience down to the last sip. Of course, they also offer a range of accessible, high-quality options for those looking to enjoy a refined coffee experience at a more casual level. The highly popular Hawaiian food café from Honolulu, Koko Head Café, known for drawing crowds, has opened its first location in the Kansai area! Their specialty, the “Koko Moco,” is a creative twist on the classic Hawaiian loco moco, topped with unique kimchi tempura. A must-visit for beer enthusiasts! CRAFT BEER BASE Leaf offers freshly brewed craft beers straight from a brewery located near Grand Green Osaka. This specialty shop has a range of flavorful craft beers, paired with delicious bar bites to enjoy alongside. Another popular spot is gardens umekita by Kohnan, featuring a wide selection of plants and aquariums. While it might be challenging for international visitors to buy and bring items back home, it’s a wonderful place to find inspiration for home decor and lifestyle ideas. The world-renowned Time Out Market is making its first appearance in Asia, opened in the South Wing of Grand Green Osaka on Friday, March 21, 2025.   Spanning a massive 3,000-square-meter space, the market will feature 17 carefully selected kitchens and 2 bars from across the Kansai region. Visitors can enjoy Osaka’s signature dishes, including okonomiyaki, yakisoba, takoyaki, and kushikatsu, as well as ramen, udon, sushi, and more. This large-scale food market offers a unique opportunity to experience both local flavors and culture. Focusing on five key themes—bathing, dining, exercise, mindfulness, and beauty, Umekita Onsen REN Wellbeing Park has been established as one of the largest urban spas in Kansai, offering a range of wellness services for visitors. From the outdoor infinity pool, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the lush greenery of Grand Green Osaka and the surrounding cityscape.   The Basic Plan includes access to the large public bath, sauna, gym, studio, indoor heated pool, and relaxation & dining areas, along with a complimentary welcome drink. Towels, in-house wear, and various amenities are also provided, making it easy for visitors traveling from afar to enjoy a stress-free experience. Do you know that three new hotels has been opened at Grand Green Osaka this year? Among the three, “Hotel Hankyu GRAN RESPIRE OSAKA,” opened on March 21, 2025, is highly recommended. This premium hotel, an elevated brand of the nearby “Hotel Hankyu RESPIRE OSAKA,” offers a total of 482 rooms. The accommodations range from double and twin rooms on the standard floors (7th to 25th floors) to club floors on the 26th and 27th, with ten room types available to cater to different guest needs. Additionally, an exclusive Club Lounge has opened for Club Floor guests only. The lounge features a suspended art installation that beautifully reflects the starry sky and city lights. As soon as the elevator doors open on the 27th floor, guests are greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view, creating a truly special and unforgettable experience.   Conveniently located close to the station, this hotel promises an elevated level of comfort and relaxation perfect for a quality stay in Osaka.   Click here to check the official website for Hotel Hankyu GRAN RESPIRE OSAKA You will not want to miss the Umekita area especially after its dynamic expansion. Be sure to explore the evolving area!   Osaka’s vibrant Umekita area is only set to grow, with full completion expected by 2027. Stay tuned for even more exciting developments!   Renderings provided by: Grand Green Osaka Developer

7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers

Spring in Japan is the season of flowers! Many people may think of cherry blossoms when they think of spring flowers in Japan, but wisteria flowers is a spring flower that is familiar to Japanese people and has even been written about in waka poems. The best time to see isteria flowers is after the cherry blossoms have fallen. Even after the cherry blossoms are over, there are still some Japanese landscapes that we would like visitors to see!   *Admission and worship fees are required to view some spots. For details, please check the official website of each spot.   -INDEX- [Osaka, Fukushima-ku] Shimofukushima Park, etc. [Osaka, Higashisumiyoshi] Nagai botanical garden [Tamba-shi, Hyogo] Byakugou-ji Temple [Takarazuka-shi, Hyogo] Nakayamadera Temple [Kyoto,Uji] Byodoin Temple [Kyoto, Fushimi] Jounangu [Nara] Kasuga Taisha Shrine Wisteria flowers can be seen even in urban centers. The Fukushima-ku and Noda area, near the Umeda area of Osaka, has been known as a famous place for Fuji trees for about 600 years. This is also where the standard Japanese name for the wisteria flowers(Fuji) is “nodafuji”.   Noda’s wisteria flowers were almost completely wiped out in an air raid during World War II, but have now been restored thanks to the efforts of local residents. The flowers bloom every year at 29 locations in the ward, including parks and public facilities.   In particular, Shimofukushima Park has the largest number of wisteria trellises in the ward and is worth seeing. The plaza in front of Hanshin Noda Station is also picturesque, with its fantastic contrast between the purple hues of the wisteria flowers and the urban landscape.   Usual viewing time: mid-April   The collaboration of blue and light purple flowers at “Nagai Botanical Garden” looks great in photographs. Nemophila, a popular spring flower in Japan in recent years, blooms all over the Life Garden, which covers an area of about 2,000 square meters. Next to it, in mid-April, nodafuji (wisteria flower) blooms with light purple flowers, making this a spot where visitors can see all the popular flowers at once.   The Nagai Botanical Garden is only one subway train ride away from Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba. It is easily accessible from the center of the city, and visitors can encounter a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers throughout the year. The permanent nighttime outdoor museum “Team Lab Botanical Garden Osaka” is also popular!   ▼For more information, click here.▼ Highlights and things to do at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka   Usual viewing time: mid-April (Nemophila: mid-April to early May) There is no one who is not moved by the sight of the wisteria at Byakugou-ji Temple! It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Osaka Station to Byakugou-ji Temple by train and cab, but the scenery is so spectacular that it will leave you speechless. The previous chief priest planted this variety of wisteria flowers about 30 years ago, and the flower clusters are over 1 meter long. The volume of the wisteria trellises is overwhelming, as they are set up in an L-shape over a vast area of 120 meters. The wisteria flowers pour down from overhead like a shower. The Byakugo-ji Temple Kyushaku Fuji Matsuri Festival will be held from April 27 (Sun) to May 6 (Tue, Holiday), 2025, from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The wisteria light-up runs from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, but the full effect of the illumination becomes visible after 7:00 PM, creating a scene reminiscent of the aurora flowing across the sky.   * The festival period may change depending on the blooming conditions. Please check the official website for updates.   Usual viewing time: early to mid May Nakayama-dera Temple is famous for its fertility and safe delivery. It is located in Takarazuka, where hot springs spring water gushes out. There is an 80-meter-long wisteria trellis in “Hoshi no Hiroba” in the precincts of the temple, and from mid to late April, the wisteria flowers are in full bloom. Purple wisteria are most commonly seen in Japan, but Nakayama-dera Temple is characterized by its white wisteria. If you visit on a sunny day, they look like clouds floating in a blue sky! The sweet fragrance of the wisteria flowers also wafts through the air.   Usual viewing time: mid to late April Byodoin Phoenix Hall, built in 1053, is a famous landmark depicted on the 10-yen coin, and is a must-see spot if you are visiting Kyoto as a tourist. Byodoin Garden, with its seasonal flowers, together with the Phoenix Hall built on the middle of the pond and the view of the mountains on the other side of the pond, is an image of the Paradise that people envisioned when the temple was built. In spring, the pond is filled with blooming wisteria flowers, which harmonize beautifully with the gorgeous Phoenix Hall. This is truly a paradise-like setting with an elegant Japanese flavor that should not be missed.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Jonangu is a place where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers. There are five gardens within the precincts of the temple, and every year the hues of wisteria flowers in the “Muromachi no Niwa” garden, a garden with a circular garden with a pond. In spring, there is much to see, as not only the wisteria flowers but also the Yamabuki and azalea trees on the grounds bloom around the same time. In addition, there is a “wisteria miko kagura” performance (free admission) in which a shrine maiden holding a wisteria branch in her hand and crowned with a cluster of wisteria flowers performs a kagura dance, and if you receive a “wisteria flower charm,” the shrine maiden will purify you with a kagura bell (1,000 yen per charm). This is a spot where visitors can not only admire the flowers, but also enjoy the “experience.   Usual viewing time: Late April Wisteria Miko Kagura: twice a day at 10:00 and 15:00 on May 1-6, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25, 2025 Kasuga-taisha Shrine is one of Nara’s major tourist attractions with its beautiful shrine pavilions painted in bright vermilion, and is designated as a World Heritage Site. The wisteria flowers is an important flower for Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and is even used in the shrine’s crest. The wisteria flowers grow wild throughout the shrine grounds, and the “Wisteria of Sunazuri” at the Main Sanctuary is known as a famous tree. In addition, about 300 varieties of flowers and plants related to Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry, Manyoshu, are planted in the Manyoshu Botanical Garden, where about 200 wisteria flowers of 20 varieties are grown, allowing visitors to learn about the differences in shape, size, and color of the flowers depending on the variety.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Since ancient times, Japanese people have been sensitive to the changing of the seasons. Don’t you think that the graceful and dignified impression of the wisteria flowers is linked to the Japanese image of harmony? Please visit a spot where you can see the Japanese-style scenery of the wisteria flowers.

[2025] Best 4 Cherry Blossom Sweets to Enjoy during Spring in Osaka & Kobe

Spring is the season of cherry blossoms. However, cherry blossom viewing under the cherry blossoms in full bloom can only be enjoyed during a short period from late March to early April. Here are some sweets and goods that allow you to enjoy the cherry blossoms even after the cherry blossom season is over. Why don’t you enjoy the cherry blossom season at home or on a trip?   -INDEX- １．Cherry Blossom Sweets (Antenor) ２．Sakura Sweets & Tea for a Hanami Mood (Afternoon Tea Tearoom) ３．Sakura Sweets to Take Out for Hanami (Freshly Baked Cheese Tart PABLO) ４．Spring Limited Parfait (TO THE HERBS) Kobe-based patisserie “ANTENOR” will be offering a variety of colorful and gorgeous tasting sweets under the theme of “Hanami” (cherry blossom viewing) at its cake stores nationwide. These spring-like sweets include a cake combining cherry blossoms and black tea, a cherry blossom Mont Blanc, and a cake combining Nishio green tea and yuzu (a Japanese citrus fruit).   This delicate cake, inspired by cherry blossom petals, features a refreshing peach mousse coated in a sakura-scented glaze. Inside, you’ll find a light and fruity peach-infused sakura sauce and a rich tea-flavored crème brûlée, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.   Enjoy this Hanami sweet at home, or go out and enjoy the cherry blossoms while viewing them.   【Sales period】Until April 30, 2025  *Some items are available only until April 18. 【Store】B1F, Hanshin Department Store Umeda Main Store   Celebrate the arrival of spring with limited-time seasonal sweets and teas, including the beautifully decorated “Strawberry and Sakura Scone Shortcake.” This dessert is crafted from a crisp yet fluffy scone dough and layered with sakura-flavored whipped cream, matcha whipped cream, Uji matcha ice cream, and a subtly fragrant strawberry sakura sauce. Other delightful treats include the “Strawberry and Sakura Milk Mille-feuille,” “Strawberry and Milk Almond Pudding Parfait,” and the “Berry and Lemon Mimosa Shortcake”—all perfect for a springtime tea break. For drinks, the “Sakura and Matcha Milk Tea” is a must-try, blending the refined bitterness of matcha with the gentle sweetness of sakura milk.  Enjoy a taste of spring with these cherry blossom-inspired sweets and teas!   【Sales Period】March 6 (Thursday) – April 23 (Wednesday), 2025【Sales Locations】Hankyu Umeda Main Store 3F, Hanshin Umeda Main Store 7F, etc. PABLO mini Sakura Mochi, a limited-edition treat, is now available at the PABLO Shinsaibashi main store.  This hand-sized cheese tart features a crispy tart shell filled with creamy cheese batter, baked to golden perfection. It is topped with gyūhi (soft rice cake) and generously covered with a cherry blossom-colored sweet bean paste infused with Shizuoka-grown Izu sakura leaves. With its delightful sakura fragrance and chewy gyūhi texture, this cheese tart captures the essence of sakura mochi in a single bite. Perfect for a picnic under the cherry blossoms or as a small after-dinner indulgence at your hotel!   【Sales Period】March 1 (Saturday) – April 30 (Wednesday), 2025【Sales Locations】Freshly Baked Cheese Tart Specialty Store PABLO Shinsaibashi Main Store   TO THE HERBS brings you a special “Sakura, Strawberry, and Matcha Parfait,” celebrating the beauty of cherry blossoms with a perfect balance of matcha’s rich aroma and springtime flavors. This seasonal parfait combines fresh strawberries, sakura monaka (wafer), sakura ice cream, sakura jelly, and a rich matcha panna cotta. It is topped with granola and sakura leaf cookies, adding delightful textures and visual appeal.   【Sales Period】March 15 – April 10, 2025 (Dates may change without notice.)【Sales Locations】TO THE HERBS Nishinomiya Gardens (Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens 4F)   Even after the cherry blossoms have faded, you can still savor their essence with these delightful sakura-themed sweets. Enjoy the fragrance and flavors of sakura to make the most of spring!

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