Osaka is a fantastic city to visit any time of the year, but depending on what you want to see and do, some seasons may suit you better than others. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to plan your trip.
Winter (Dec.–Feb.)
Lights and New Year Traditions
Winter in Osaka is usually not too cold, so it’s easy to enjoy walking around. From late November to December, the city is decorated with lights for the Osaka Festival of Lights, including the Midosuji Illumination and Osaka Hikari Renaissance in Nakanoshima. In early January, many people visit shrines like Sumiyoshi Taisha for hatsumode (New Year’s prayers). It’s a great way to experience Japanese culture.
大阪の冬は比較的寒すぎず、外を歩くのにも適しています。 11月下旬から12月にかけては、大阪市内が「大阪光の饗宴」で華やかにライトアップされます。御堂筋イルミネーションや中之島の「大阪・光のルネサンス」などが有名です。 1月初旬には、住吉大社などの神社で「初詣」が行われ、日本のお正月文化を体験する良い機会となります。
Don’t forget to bring a coat, as the weather can be chilly, especially in the evening. Whether you’re with friends, a partner, or exploring solo, December in Osaka offers something special for everyone.
夜は冷え込むことがあるので、コートを忘れずに。友人とでも、カップルでも、一人旅でも、12月の大阪には誰にとっても特別な体験があります。
Christmas events
In December, Osaka is filled with festive Christmas events. From sparkling illuminations and holiday markets to music shows, the city glows with a romantic atmosphere. Popular spots include the Nakanoshima area and Universal Studios Japan. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the magic of winter in Osaka. You can also explore seasonal food stalls offering warm treats like hot yuzu drinks, takoyaki, and Christmas-themed sweets.
12月の大阪は、クリスマスの華やかなイベントで彩られます。きらめくイルミネーションやホリデーマーケット、音楽ショーなどが街をロマンチックな雰囲気で包み込みます。中之島エリアやユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパンは特に人気のスポットです。冬の大阪の魔法を楽しむには絶好のタイミングです。また、季節限定の屋台では、柚子ドリンクやたこ焼き、クリスマス仕様のスイーツなど、寒い時期にぴったりの温かいグルメも味わえます。
Nakanoshima “Festival of the Lights”
Located between Yodoyabashi and Nakanoshima Park, this area becomes a romantic riverside walkway with artistic light displays. Historical buildings like the Osaka City Central Public Hall are beautifully lit up, often with projection mapping. Street stalls and live performances also enhance the festive atmosphere.
淀屋橋から中之島公園にかけてのエリアが、幻想的な川沿いの光の回廊に変わります。大阪市中央公会堂などの歴史的建築物がプロジェクションマッピングで彩られ、屋台や音楽パフォーマンスも楽しめます。
Midosuji Illumination（御堂筋）
This is one of Osaka’s most iconic winter events. Midosuji Street, a main boulevard running from Umeda to Namba, is lined with ginkgo trees covered in millions of LED lights, creating a breathtaking glowing tunnel for over 4 kilometers.
梅田からなんばまで続く御堂筋が、イチョウ並木と共に400万球以上のLEDでライトアップされ、約4kmにわたる光のトンネルが出現します。大阪の冬を代表するイベントのひとつです。
USJ Christmas Events
USJ features one of Japan’s largest Christmas trees and themed shows like “The Magical Starlight Parade” or seasonal performances with favorite characters. It’s especially recommended for families and couples.
USJでは、日本最大級のクリスマスツリーや「マジカル・スターライト・パレード」など、シーズン限定のショーが開催されます。家族連れやカップルに特におすすめです。
Abeno Tennoji Illumination
Located around Tennoji Park and Abeno Harukas (Japan’s tallest skyscraper), this area features a more relaxed but charming illumination display. You can enjoy both city lights and nearby attractions like Tennoji Zoo or the observation deck.
あべのハルカスや天王寺公園周辺で行われるイルミネーションは、落ち着いた雰囲気ながらも温かみのある光で街を彩ります。天王寺動物園や展望台と一緒に楽しめます。
EXPOCITY Illumination (Suita City)
Next to the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, EXPOCITY offers a mix of shopping, dining, and seasonal lights. The giant Ferris wheel is lit up at night, making it a great photo spot. This area is family-friendly and less crowded than central Osaka.
万博記念公園に隣接する複合施設で、ショッピングや食事とともにライトアップを楽しめます。巨大な観覧車が夜になるとライトアップされ、写真映えスポットとしても人気。中心部より人混みが少なく、家族連れに最適です。
Hatsumode（初詣）
Hatsumode is the first shrine or temple visit of the New Year in Japan. Most people visit between January 1st and 3rd, known as San-ga-nichi, when shrines are at their most festive and crowded. However, if you want to avoid the rush, you can still do Hatsumode up until January 7th, or in some regions, even until January 15th.
（初詣とは、新年に初めて神社やお寺を参拝する伝統行事です。多くの人は1月1日〜3日の三が日に訪れ、神社は最もにぎやかになります。混雑を避けたい方は、1月7日頃まで、地域や神社によっては1月15日頃まで参拝可能です。）
During this time, shrines are filled with visitors praying for health, happiness, and good fortune. You’ll also find seasonal food stalls, omikuji (fortune slips), and amulets for sale. It’s a spiritual and joyful way to start the year—perfect for travelers looking to experience authentic Japanese culture.
（この時期の神社は、家内安全・健康・商売繁盛などの願い事をする人々でにぎわい、甘酒や焼き餅などの屋台、おみくじやお守りも楽しめます。日本文化を体験するにはぴったりの、神聖で楽しいお正月の行事です。）
Main period: January 1st to January 3rd (San-ga-nichi)
Extended period: Up until January 7th or even January 15th at some shrines
メイン期間： 1月1日〜1月3日（三が日）
延長期間： 神社によっては1月7日頃まで、または1月15日まで
■ Sumiyoshi Taisha（住吉大社）
Visitors: About 2 million during the first three days of January
One of Japan’s oldest shrines, famous for its uniquely straight bridge (Sorihashi) and Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture. Located just 10 minutes from Namba by train, it’s a lively and authentic Osaka experience with hundreds of food stalls and festive crowds.
Tips: Visit early in the morning on January 1st to see locals in kimono and avoid the heaviest crowds.
参拝者数：約200万人（正月三が日）
大阪を代表する古社で、全国の住吉神社の総本社。反橋（そりはし）や住吉造りの本殿が特徴的で、アクセスも良好（なんばから電車で約10分）。正月には屋台が並び、にぎやかな雰囲気に包まれます。
※元日の早朝に訪れると、着物姿の参拝客や比較的少ない混雑で楽しめます。
■ Shitennoji Temple（四天王寺）
Founded by Prince Shotoku in the 6th century, this is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. It offers a calm, spiritual start to the year. The temple also hosts a small flea market around New Year.
Tips:Ideal for those looking for a quieter, more reflective Hatsumode spot.
聖徳太子によって建立されたとされる、日本最古級の仏教寺院。派手さはありませんが、落ち着いた雰囲気で、静かに新年の祈りを捧げたい方におすすめです。年始には骨董市なども開かれます。
■ Fushimi Inari Taisha（伏見稲荷大社）
Visitors: Around 2.7 million during the New Year
Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of business and agriculture. It’s open 24 hours, making it perfect for early-morning or late-night visits to avoid the biggest crowds.
Tips:Expect a long walk up the mountain path—comfortable shoes recommended!
参拝者数：約270万人（正月期間）
千本鳥居で有名な稲荷神社の総本宮。商売繁盛や五穀豊穣を祈願する人々でにぎわいます。24時間開放されており、混雑を避けて早朝や深夜に訪れることも可能です。
※鳥居の山道はやや長めなので、歩きやすい靴がおすすめ
■ Yasaka Shrine（八坂神社）
Located in the Gion district, Yasaka Shrine is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. During New Year, the entire area is filled with festive lights, food stalls, and good-luck charms. On January 1st, the “Okera-mairi” ritual is performed, where sacred fire is shared with visitors.
Tips:Perfect for combining with a stroll through the historic Gion area or Maruyama Park.
祇園の中心にある人気の神社。正月には**屋台や縁起物、おけら参り（火を持ち帰る儀式）などが行われ、観光客にも地元民にも愛されています。
※初詣のあとに円山公園や祇園の町並み散策も一緒に楽しめます。
Ebessan（えべっさん）
Ebessan, also known as Toka Ebisu, is a traditional Osaka festival honoring Ebisu, the god of business success. Held at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine from January 9th to 11th, it attracts large crowds each year.
Visitors pray for prosperity and enjoy lively stalls offering Osaka street food like takoyaki, yakisoba, and kushikatsu. It’s a fun way to experience local culture in the New Year.
Strawberry Picking（苺狩り）
In January, strawberry picking is a popular activity near Osaka. Many farms offer all-you-can-eat strawberries in warm greenhouses. The berries are fresh, sweet, and perfect for a fun outing. Some farms even provide condensed milk for dipping. Be sure to book in advance!
Skiing & Ice Skating
In January, enjoy winter activities like skiing and ice skating in and around Osaka!
Ice Skating: In Osaka, you can skate at Osaka Prefectural Rink or visit temporary outdoor rinks at places like Namba Parks during the winter season. Rentals are available for a fun and easy experience.
Skiing: While there are no ski resorts in Osaka city, you can easily reach nearby resorts like Hachikogen Ski Resort or Rokko Snow Park (about 2-3 hours by car) for skiing and snowboarding.
Crowds（混雑状況）
Quiet After New Year
The period from January 1st to 3rd is busy with people visiting shrines for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) and taking part in New Year sales. You may find higher hotel prices and crowded areas during this time.
However, after mid-January is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace.
Summer (Jun.–Aug.)
Festivals and Fireworks
Summer in Osaka is hot and humid, but also full of exciting events. In late July, the famous Tenjin Festival (Tenjin Matsuri) takes place. You can see boats with lights on the river, traditional costumes, and big fireworks. In early August, the Yodogawa Fireworks Festival is another highlight. Many people gather along the river to watch the amazing show.
大阪の夏は暑くて湿気がありますが、楽しいイベントもたくさんあります。 7月下旬には、日本三大祭りの一つ「天神祭」が行われます。川を彩る船渡御（ふなとぎょ）や、伝統衣装の行列、大きな花火が見どころです。 8月上旬には、「なにわ淀川花火大会」も開催され、川沿いで多くの人が花火を楽しみます。
Tenjin Matsuri（天神祭）
Tenjin Matsuri is a major festival in Osaka every July. It features parades with mikoshi and boats, fireworks at night, and many food stalls. With over 1,000 years of history, it’s a highlight of summer in Osaka.
Gion Festival（祇園祭）
Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous festivals. Held every July, it features grand parades with beautifully decorated floats called yamaboko. The main events are on July 17 and 24, but the festive atmosphere lasts all month. Streets are filled with food stalls, traditional music, and people in yukata. It’s a great way to experience Japanese culture and summer traditions.
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
In August, the Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival lights up Osaka’s summer night! Held on a Saturday in early August, this spectacular event features massive fireworks launched over the Yodogawa River. It’s a breathtaking experience with food stalls and a lively atmosphere—perfect for families, friends, and couples.
Swimming
In August, you can enjoy swimming at beaches near Osaka. However, jellyfish tend to appear in mid to late August, so it’s safer to go in the early part of the month.
Autumn (Sep.–Nov.)
Cool Weather and Fall Colors
Autumn is a very comfortable season to visit. The air is crisp, and the trees change color. In late October, Midosuji Street in central Osaka turns into a walking area for the Midosuji Autumn Party. There are music shows and art displays. In November, places like Minoh Park and Expo ’70 Park are perfect for seeing beautiful red and yellow leaves.
秋はとても過ごしやすい季節で、空気もさわやか、木々の葉も色づきます。 10月下旬には、大阪の中心を通る御堂筋が歩行者天国になる「御堂筋オータムパーティー」が開かれます。音楽イベントやアート展示も楽しめます。 11月には、箕面公園や万博記念公園などで美しい紅葉が見られ、散策にぴったりです。
USJ’s Halloween Horror Night
October is Halloween season at Universal Studios Japan! Held from early September to early November, the event features fun parades and shows during the day, and scary zombie zones at night. Costumes are welcome, making it perfect for photos. It’s a must-visit fall experience for families and friends!
Autumn colors at Osaka Castle
In November, Osaka Castle Park is a beautiful spot to enjoy autumn leaves. The colorful red and yellow foliage contrasts perfectly with the historic castle, making it great for photos. The spacious park is ideal for a peaceful walk or picnic—perfect for experiencing the calm side of Osaka in fall.
Spring (Mar.–May.)
Cherry Blossoms and Spring Festivals
Spring is one of the best times to visit Osaka. The weather is mild, and cherry blossoms bloom beautifully around the city. In early April, you can enjoy the special “Sakura Tunnel” at the Osaka Mint Bureau. It’s open for just one week and is very popular with both locals and tourists. Osaka Castle Park is also a great place for hanami (cherry blossom viewing), especially when the trees are lit up at night.
春は大阪を訪れるのに最適な季節のひとつです。気候も穏やかで、市内のあちこちで桜がきれいに咲きます。 4月上旬には、大阪造幣局で「桜の通り抜け」が開催されます。1週間だけ一般公開され、多くの地元の人や観光客でにぎわいます。 また、大阪城公園はお花見スポットとしても人気で、夜には桜のライトアップも楽しめます。
Nemophila Wonderland
At Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Osaka, you can see beautiful nemophila (baby blue eyes) blooming from mid-April to early May. Around 30,000 flowers cover the ground in soft blue, creating a peaceful and photogenic scene. It’s an easy day trip and a great place to enjoy Japan’s spring.
Osaka Castle（大阪城公園）
In April, Osaka Castle Park is one of the best places in the city to enjoy cherry blossoms. Around 3,000 cherry trees bloom around the historic Osaka Castle, creating a stunning view. It’s a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing), where locals and tourists picnic under the pink blossoms. The mix of nature and history makes it a must-see in spring.
The rose garden at Tsurumi
In May, the rose garden at Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park in Osaka reaches its peak. With over 1,300 roses from about 250 varieties around the world, the garden becomes a colorful and fragrant paradise. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, taking beautiful photos, and enjoying the scents of spring. The park is free to enter and easy to access, making it a great spot for a casual visit during the season.
Travel Tips for Visiting Osaka
Japanese Translation: 大阪旅行のアドバイス
Get an IC Card (ICOCA or Suica)
Osaka has an excellent public transport system. An IC card like ICOCA or Suica makes it easy to ride trains, subways, and buses.
交通系ICカード（ICOCAやSuica）を持っていると、電車や地下鉄、バスの利用がとても便利です。
Consider an Osaka Amazing Pass
If you plan to visit many attractions, the Osaka Amazing Pass gives you free entry to dozens of spots and unlimited subway rides for one or two days.
観光地をたくさん巡るなら「大阪周遊パス（Osaka Amazing Pass）」がお得です。多くの施設が無料になり、地下鉄も乗り放題です。
Try Local Foods
Don’t miss famous Osaka foods like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and kitsune udon. Visit Dotonbori or Shinsekai to enjoy the local food culture.
たこ焼き、お好み焼き、串カツ、きつねうどんなど、大阪名物をぜひ試してみてください。道頓堀や新世界が特におすすめです。
Stay in Namba or Umeda Area
These areas are central, well connected, and have lots of restaurants and shops. It’s convenient for sightseeing and shopping.
宿泊は難波（なんば）や梅田エリアが便利です。交通アクセスが良く、飲食店や買い物スポットも充実しています。
Avoid Golden Week if You Want Fewer Crowds
Golden Week (late April to early May) is a major Japanese holiday period. Tourist spots can be very crowded and prices may be higher.
4月末から5月初めの「ゴールデンウィーク」は日本の大型連休で、観光地は混雑し、宿泊費も高くなりがちです。静かに観光したい人は避けたほうがよいでしょう。
