Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Viewing

Each year for one week in mid-April, the Osaka Mint Bureau opens their grounds for ‘Sakura Torinuke” — cherry blossom viewing.

What happens?

The particular variety for which the mint grounds are famous for is yaezakura — a slightly later flowering variety with more petals than the classic somei yoshino variety. So while most parks in Osaka will be on their last cherry blossom legs, the Osaka Mint will be in full swing. After dark, the blossoms are illuminated.

Note that while the event will require pre-registration to enter the grounds, there is also a lovely riverside walk outside with stalls and cherry blossoms — the regular Somei-yoshino kind — that doesn’t require reservations.

Registration for the Mint begins mid-March to early April. Details can be found here.

For more suggestions on where to hanami in Osaka, check out our complete guide to sakura viewing spots in Japan’s Kitchen.

Getting to the Osaka Mint

The mint is a 15-minute walk from Temmabashi Station on the metro Tanimachi Line and Keihan Main Line. From Osaka Station take a short stroll to Higashi Umeda Station and catch the Tanimachin Line from there. If you’re travelling from the Namba area you can hop on the metro and change at either Yodoyobashi or Tanimachiyuchome stations (or walk to them as they aren’t too far) and then catch the Tanimachi Line from there.

Staying near the Osaka Mint

Rather than staying next door to the garden, we suggest staying a little more centrally in Namba, as it is still only 15 minutes away, but also closer to the castle and Dotonbori. Fuku Yado Hostel has resonable rates and a smart design which combines traditional features (like a sunken hearth) with modern amenities. If you like capsule hotels – then Y’s Cabin is a simple but smart option with traditional baths and comfy beds. For hotel lovers we suggest the Dormy Inn Shinsaibashi which comes with a hot spring to unwind in after a day of blossom viewing.