Lim Chee Wah

Happy Golden Week! Japan's beloved annual holiday stretch is underway and runs through May 6. This is one of the best times to be in Osaka and the surrounding Kansai cities including Kobe and Kyoto. You can expect a packed calendar of events, festivals and exhibitions, with plenty of opportunities to eat and drink outside in the beautiful spring weather. So don't waste the long weekend doomscrolling. Explore our curated list of the best events and things to do in and around Osaka right now, and have a great Golden Week. Looking ahead: Osaka has plenty more in store after Golden Week. Here are our top picks for the best events happening across the city throughout May.

Osaka is famous for its food – especially takoyaki and udon – but its cultural scene is just as vibrant. As the heart of the Kansai region, the city is packed with museums and galleries presenting a diverse array of exhibitions year-round – from contemporary installations and immersive digital art to thought-provoking commentary and timeless traditional works. With so much to explore, we’re here to help you focus on the most exciting and worthwhile shows. Browse our curated list below and get ready to be inspired by Osaka’s dynamic art world. RECOMMENDED: 12 best things to do in Nakanoshima, Osaka's museum island

In Osaka and across Japan, the month of May always starts in a joyful mood. The long stretch of Golden Week holidays means everyone is out and about, enjoying a wide variety of food events and cultural festivals all over the city. The month typically brings beautiful spring weather, making it the ideal time to explore the outdoors before the rainy season arrives and the intense heat and humidity of summer set in. Whether you’re looking for world-class art exhibitions or a chance to immerse yourself in local and international culture, May is jam-packed with exciting activities. To help you plan for an amazing month ahead, here’s our curated list of the best events, festivals and things to do in Osaka. Don’t forget to check back often, as we’ll be updating this guide as and when new events are confirmed. Looking to get active? Here are the best day hikes in and around Osaka

Golden Week is the longest stretch of public holidays in Japan, which make it peak domestic travel season. It’s also one of the most exciting times to be in Osaka, as the city comes alive with an array of seasonal events and festivals. This year, the 2026 Golden Week runs from Wednesday April 29 to the following Wednesday May 6. While April 30 and May 1 are technically working days, locals who take those off as paid leave can easily enjoy a whopping eight-day break. To help you make the most of this long holiday, we’ve rounded up the best food and drink events, spring floral displays and cultural festivals happening across the city.

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do > 大阪、ゴールデンウィークに行くべき注目のイベント20選 大阪が一年の中でも特に活気づくゴールデンウィーク。街はグルメやカルチャーフェスティバル、フラワーガーデン、展覧会など多彩な催しで彩られる。 食のイベントでは「THE MEAT OSAKA」「クラフト餃子フェス OSAKA」「LA FOOD & CULTURE FEST」が開催され、肉料理や餃子、LAフードなどを存分に味わえる。 フラワー系ではネモフィラが見頃を迎え、青一面の花畑が広がる。さらにアート分野では「劇場アニメ ルックバック展 －押山清高 線の感情」や「NAKED meets ガウディ展」などを通して、映像や建築表現の世界観に触れられるだろう。 本記事では、この期間に楽しめる食・文化・自然・アートのイベントをまとめて紹介。連休の計画づくりの参考にしてほしい。 関連記事『奈良監獄ミュージアムでしかできない6のこと』

April is the ultimate time to revel in the joys of spring. With cherry blossoms now in full bloom, the first week of the month is all about catching the seasonal sakura festivals and evening illuminations before they’re gone. Even if you miss this fleeting window, fret not. The late-blooming yae-zakura at the Japan Mint Museum are expected to flower only in mid-April. Just be sure to register for this special viewing in advance, as spots are limited. Of course, Osaka offers more than just pink petals. The jaw-dropping fireworks from last year’s Osaka Expo are returning for a one-off revival, while the public spaces in Umekita transform into a sprawling open-air gallery studded with site-specific installations. Then, from mid-month onwards, the brilliant blue nemophila will be blooming over at Osaka Maishima Seaside Park. So, check out our selection of the best events, festivals and exhibitions happening throughout April, then head out there and enjoy the beautiful weather.  Looking ahead: From food festivals to cultural events, discover the best things to do during Osaka Golden Week from April 29 to May 6

タイムアウト大阪 > レストラン＆カフェ > 大阪、ベストうどん店7選 うどんは、大阪の代表的なソウルフードの一つ。手頃な価格で満足感があり、さまざまな調理法で楽しめる。 うどん好きなら、大きく2つのスタイルがあるということを知っておきたい。一つは香川県発祥の「讃岐うどん」で、しっかりとしたコシと弾力が特徴。もう一つは大阪のうどんで、より丸みがあり、柔らかい食感が特徴だ。大阪うどんは、煮干しやコンブなどからとった澄んだ黄金色のだしで提供されることが多い。 大阪の名物といえば、甘く煮た油揚げを乗せたシンプルな「きつねうどん」だが、それ以外にも多彩なバリエーションが存在する。濃厚なカレーうどん、サクサクの天ぷらを添えたもの、煮込み牛肉を乗せたものなど、楽しみ方はさまざま。いずれを選ぶにせよ、大阪の名店のうどんをぜひ味わってほしい。「ミシュランガイド」で「ビブグルマン」に選ばれた店もあり、どの店でも満足できる一杯に出合えるはずだ。 関連記事『大阪市で行くべきレストラン30選』

Udon is a popular comfort food in Osaka. These characteristically thick Japanese wheat noodles are affordable, filling and come in a wide variety of preparations. Serious noodle aficionados know that there are two main versions of udon in the city: the firm and chewy Sanuki style from Japan's udon capital, Kagawa prefecture, and the local Osaka style, which is rounder in appearance and softer by comparison. The latter is typically served in a clean, golden dashi broth made with dried fish and kombu. While kitsune udon – a simple soupy bowl topped with a sweet, fried tofu pocket – is Osaka’s signature serve, there are many other versions to enjoy. You can find udon swimming in rich curry, accompanied by crispy tempura, or topped with simmered beef. Whichever you prefer, make sure to grab a bowl at one of these top udon restaurants in Osaka, some of which have even received a Bib Gourmand nod from the Michelin Guide. Prefer buckwheat noodles instead? Here are four of Osaka's best soba restaurants

Spring is almost here, and with it, the highly anticipated arrival of cherry blossoms. If sakura spotting is high on your list this year, Kyoto is the place to be from late March through early April. There is a reason this ancient capital remains one of Japan’s most picturesque spring destinations. Its many Unesco World Heritage sites, temples and shrines boast meticulously landscaped gardens that transform into a sea of pink each year. When set against a backdrop of heritage architecture, the blooming sakura creates the most breathtaking scene, one that has become synonymous with springtime in Japan. Moreover, many of these iconic attractions will even open briefly for special night visits, offering a unique opportunity to admire the blooms at different times of day. If you think sakura look ethereal by day, wait till you see them bathed in soft illumination after nightfall – it’s truly unforgettable. So let us guide you to Kyoto’s best cherry blossom events and illuminations this year: from the centuries-old Nijo Castle and the sprawling mountainside Daigoji temple to a hidden town with one of the region’s largest cherry blossom tunnels, just 20 minutes by train from central Kyoto. BEFORE YOU GO: Check the 2026 cherry blossom forecast for the latest flowering and peak bloom dates

The fleeting nature of cherry blossoms is a poignant reminder for us to seize the moment. This is especially true in early spring, when the delicate pink blooms appear across Japan all at once but last only for about two weeks. To make the most of the season, prepare to visit as many sites as possible between now and early April. Once you’ve explored Osaka’s top sakura spots, along with their limited-time events and illuminations, consider taking a day trip to some of Japan’s most scenic springtime destinations in nearby Kyoto, Nara, Himeji and Kobe. Every location on this list is easily accessible by public transport and offers unique sakura scenery. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Here's the official forecast for the flowering and full-bloom dates of cherry blossoms in the Kansai region

Cherry blossoms are a cause for celebration. Not only do they mark the arrival of spring, but these pale pink blooms also transform Osaka’s parks, gardens and streets into a soft, pastel-coloured landscape. Due to the flower's fleeting nature – sakura last only one to two weeks after blooming – many of the city’s top cherry blossom spots host festivals and illuminations to make the most of the short season.  At these festivals, you can partake in the local hanami tradition, enjoying a picnic beneath the blooms, accompanied by entertainment as well as food and drink stalls. The illuminations, meanwhile, give you extra time to admire the delicate flowers. Cherry blossoms are beautiful in daylight, but at night, they become truly enchanting when set aglow. So for the next couple of weeks from late March to early April, make sure to fill up your calendar with as many cherry blossom events and illuminations as you can. We especially love the festivals at Osaka Castle Park and Expo ’70 Commemorative Park – get all the details below. GOING TO KYOTO? Here are Kyoto’s top cherry blossom events and illuminations for 2026.

Ramen may be the world’s most famous Japanese noodle, and udon has long been synonymous with Osaka, but soba has always flown under the radar. Yet true connoisseurs know that soba is an art. Buckwheat naturally contains no gluten, making it notoriously tricky to work with: it is brittle and lacks elasticity. That’s why many restaurants add wheat flour when making their soba noodles. The masters, however, stick to 100 percent buckwheat, resulting in a firmer, nuttier bite with a subtly toasty flavour. In Osaka, this craft is well represented, with some restaurants even serving two types of soba: one made from polished buckwheat, and the other from whole buckwheat with husks included, creating a more complex, textured flavour. To get you initiated into the world of soba, here are four restaurants where you can experience this exceptional Japanese noodle. We recommend ordering the noodles plain, with just dipping sauce, to fully appreciate their delicate flavour and unique texture. Of course, you can always add a side of tempura to make it a full meal, or enjoy your soba in a hot duck broth, which is another popular way to savour the noodles. RECOMMENDED: 100 must-go restaurants in Osaka

With most temples and cultural sites closing around 5pm, there aren’t many things to do in Kyoto at night. As a result, large crowds are often seen concentrating in areas like Gion after dark. Kyoto Night Market was launched in June last year as a new evening attraction to help spread out the crowds in the city. Since then, the market has seen its popularity grow steadily, with its previous event on March 29 attracting a record 28,000 visitors. This month, the night market returns for its 13th edition on Tuesday May 5, which is a Golden Week holiday. It will again be held at Ohigashi-san Plaza in front of the majestic Higashi Honganji Temple, less than 10 minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station. From 3pm to 10pm, the plaza will come alive with a host of food trucks and booths. You can enjoy local street food and seasonal treats, and shop for artisanal crafts and souvenirs. For this special May edition, there will even be a paper plane challenge (3pm–6pm), with winners receiving gift vouchers of up to ¥3,000. Beyond food and shopping, the night market also offers live entertainment and cultural experiences. Highlights include ninja shows as well as music and street performances. For those looking for something more hands-on, there are craft workshops and trial rickshaw rides to help make this event a fun night out for everyone.

Hidden away in the basement of Senba Center, this clean and bright ramen restaurant is operated by a renowned dried goods purveyor – and it shows. Honmachi Seimensho Chukasobakobo's broth is beautifully balanced, despite having a long list of robust ingredients: several types of dried fish, kombu kelp, pike conger eel and chicken bones. While the soup has deep umami, there’s still clarity in flavour, and it’s immensely drinkable. First, taste it on its own, then sprinkle on some sansho pepper for a spicy, fragrant kick that rounds off the richness. You get to choose from two types of noodles, both made fresh in-house every day. The restaurant recommends the hand-rolled thin flat noodles for the soupy ramen, and the springy, chewy round noodles for the soupless version, as the latter is better at picking up the dressing. Make sure you go for the bowl with all the toppings, which include perfectly tender sous-vide chashu pork and an ajitama egg with a glossy, barely set yolk. The menu also features a selection of rice bowls with different toppings, such as tuna and green onions, seared pork, and chashu pork with onsen egg. Keep an eye out for the seasonal specials, too. In winter, we had the spicy miso ramen, a hearty bowl made with garlic and mackerel on a katsuobushi stock, and topped with chunky, unctuous roast pork. A quick note: Senba Center is a long shopping mall tucked under the Honmachi elevated expressway, and it’s divided by intersections into separate buildings. Hon

Even in the competitive ramen neighbourhood of Fukushima, Moeyo Mensuke still manages to stand out. This is a testament to the restaurant's modern, refined approach to ramen. The decade-old noodle joint is tucked away in an alley just around the corner from Fukushima Station, with an all-white, almost windowless facade that gives little away. But trust the persistent queue outside its door, because the local clientele know that Moeyo Mensuke's duck ramen is one of the best in Osaka. Upon entering the narrow space, you'll need to pick one of two options at the vending machine: a clam-based ‘golden shellfish’ ramen or the signature duck ramen. The latter is the richer and more popular of the two. The chefs’ training at Kinguemon – an Osaka institution renowned for its shoyu (soy sauce) noodles – is evident in the silken broth that’s deeply flavourful yet light on the palate. It’s built on a base of Kishu duck from Wakayama and a custom soy sauce blend from Kagawa, with Tokushima’s Awaodori chicken added to balance out the duck’s gaminess. This level of attention to provenance extends to other components in the bowl as well. The medium-thick noodles are sourced from the long-established Mori Seimen, while the egg is a prized variety from Kagoshima. For the finishing touch, the ramen is topped with perfectly cooked duck and pork chashu that still retain a light blush, sweet and melty leeks, and bamboo shoots. It’s an elevated bowl of noodles that justifies the wait.

With a name that translates to ‘super happy’, the Osaka Mecha Happy Festival was established in the late 1990s as a youth-focused community dance event. The festival draws its high-energy inspiration from the famous Yosakoi street dance traditions of Kochi Prefecture. While the main festival takes place later in the year at Osaka Castle, the smaller, though no less vibrant, spring edition takes over the outdoor Wonder Square Plaza at the Umeda Sky Building to celebrate Children’s Day on May 5. Here, you can expect to see around 500 dancers from roughly 30 teams perform modern interpretations of Japanese festival dance. The uplifting choreography often blends traditional Japanese music and movements with contemporary pop, rock and even hip hop elements. True to its mission of developing a healthy and creative youth culture through dance, the event offers a joyful and inclusive atmosphere for spectators of all ages. Be sure to stay until the finale, when all participating teams come together for a grand group dance to close the event on a celebratory high.

On the last day of Golden Week, get comfy on the grass for an outdoor screening of ‘Ryuichi Sakamoto: Opus’ at Umekita Park in Grand Green Osaka. This spellbinding concert film documents the final solo piano performance by the legendary Japanese composer, Ryuichi Sakamoto (1952–2023). Over an hour and 43 minutes, the master musician performs 20 career-spanning pieces, including the iconic ‘Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence’, ‘Tong Poo’ from his Yellow Magic Orchestra era, as well as selections from his final album, ‘12’. The outdoor cinema’s picturesque urban park setting, surrounded by the gleaming skyscrapers of bustling Umeda, is a draw in itself. Moreover, the screening is further enhanced by a specialised surround-sound system that promises a truly immersive experience. The audio is so precise you can bask in the finest sonic details, from the rhythmic strike of the piano keys to Sakamoto’s delicate breathing. Best of all, admission is free. This special screening is organised as a prelude to the Japan premiere of the internationally acclaimed ‘Kagami’, set to open on June 27 at VS, just steps away within the same park. This dynamic performance will offer a multi-dimensional way to experience Sakamoto’s music in a mixed-reality space.

One of the year’s most anticipated films, ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ – starring the incomparable Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci – features several scenes shot at the Waldorf Astoria New York. Now, in conjunction with the sequel’s global release, the Waldorf Astoria Osaka is getting in on the glamorous action with a limited-time food and drink special, available until late June. Offered at the sky-high Peacock Alley lounge on the 28th floor, the hotel’s Elegance in New York Mode afternoon tea has been reimagined as a ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ special (¥13,000 per person), filled with sweet and savoury treats inspired by the film’s fashion. Of note is the hotel’s signature red velvet cheesecake, now topped with a red chocolate high heel filled with berry sauce. Also available at Peacock Alley is an exclusive cocktail created to commemorate the film. Called the Devil’s Martini (¥3,500), this ‘groundbreaking’ floral-for-spring concoction mixes vodka, sakura vermouth and hibiscus extract, and it’s finished with a preserved Japanese mountain peach that looks deceptively like an olive. For fans of the film, don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the iconic Red High Heel sculpture, the symbol of ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ films. You’ll find this massive, eye-catching installation on display at Peacock Alley from May 11 until June 11.

By bringing together three Kansai-born, internationally renowned artists who each has a singular point of view on the world today, this group exhibition is bound to be a blockbuster hit. Born in Osaka, Kenji Yanobe creates functional mechanical sculptures that carry underlying social commentary on modern survival. He is perhaps best known for his Ship’s Cat series, ‘catstronauts’ envisioned as guardian spirits to protect travellers. One of these beloved feline figures now permanently greets visitors at the entrance of the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, the host of this showcase. Fellow Osaka artist Yasumasa Morimura is a master of disguise. A conceptual photographer, filmmaker and visual artist, Morimura is renowned for appropriating iconic Western paintings and historical images. He inserts himself into these works as a form of self-portraiture through a meticulous fusion of props, costumes, make-up and digital manipulation. Rounding out the trio is Miwa Yanagi. Born in Kobe, Yanagi creates evocative works that put women at the centre of the narrative. Through photography, make-up and digital effects, her captivating images examine women’s roles and gender stereotypes in modern Japanese society. Since 2010, her practice has expanded to include large-scale theatre works. To introduce these artists to new audiences, the exhibition features a selection of career-defining pieces. However, the curation is largely focused on the future; new works by these masters anchor the show, offe

With a name that loosely translates to ‘Love Sake Date’, Aishu Deito is a fun and accessible sake festival that brings together small, independent breweries from across Japan, popular sake-loving restaurants from the Kansai region, and live music. This vibrant event is now in its 19th edition since debuting in 2008. The concept is simple: each sake brewery teams up with a restaurant to serve a curated food and drink pairing. This creative approach makes it fun and easy to dive into the world of sake, even if you aren’t familiar with this quintessential Japanese rice brew. This year, you can eat and drink your way through 20 of these pairings, with a total of 40 different breweries and restaurants to discover. Among the featured breweries are Abunotsuru from Yamaguchi, Sagara from Tochigi, Kuramoto from Nara, Ikezuki from Shimane, and Kikumori from Iwate, just to name a few. While you make your way through the sake and food selections, the atmosphere comes alive with entertainment from local artists Hoff Dylan and ET-King, as well as DJs Nobujin and Hirohisa Kamiya.  Advance tickets are ¥3,900, or ¥4,300 on the day, and they include a sake glass and souvenir. Note that all food and drink purchases at the event are cash only, and entry is restricted to adults aged 20 and older.

Held at the sprawling Flower Expo Memorial Park Tsurumi Ryokuchi in northeast Osaka City, Harapeko Circus has been a Golden Week staple since 2022. This year, the mega food festival promises over 50 vendors from popular Kansai restaurants, serving a wide variety of cuisines, from dim sum, gyoza and fried items such as shrimp tempura and fugu (blowfish) karaage to rice bowls and meaty dishes made with beef, chicken, lamb and the like, with no overlapping menu offerings. Moreover, there’s a ramen zone featuring renowned local restaurants including Toyomen with its bonito soy sauce noodles, Umasou na Ramen-ya with its creamy soy ramen, and Kyoto’s Katajikenai with its shellfish broth ramen. Separately, a dessert section populated by food trucks will be set up conveniently between the food festival’s main site and the nearby Tsurumi-ryokuchi Station, perfect for picking up a sweet treat on your way out after a meal. Harapeko Circus will also host a stage for music and dance performances, as well as a picnic area and an open-air lounge with outdoor gear. More interestingly, the festival will implement a mobile ordering system to make things easy. You can browse menus and make payments, and there’s no need to stand in line after ordering, as you’ll be notified for pickup once your food is ready.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Ultraman series, the Hirakata amusement park is hosting a VR-experience 'museum' where fans can step into the fantastical world of the titular hero. The Land of Light Museum: Ultraman XR Journey is divided into four zones connected via a narrative thread. As the story goes, a museum celebrating the life and history of Ultraman heroes has opened in Ultraman’s home world, the Land of Light, and humans on Earth are now welcome to visit. To go on this VR journey, you first choose an avatar dressed in a soldier uniform. In the opening zone, a larger-than-life Ultraman appears and whisks you away on a dreamlike journey to his home in the Land of Light. Zone 2 is the monster exhibition room, where you get to examine renowned Ultraman foes in 360-degree views, including iconic kaiju such as Baltan Seijin, Gomora and King Joe. Moving on to the exhibition of Ultraman heroes in Zone 3, you’ll encounter the different versions of the titular hero as the tribute looks back at the franchise’s 60-year legacy. Saving the best for last, Zone 4 will put you in the thick of intense battle scenes between Ultraman and some of his most fearsome adversaries including Zetton and the evil Ultraman Belial. The good thing is, even within the virtual spaces, you can still take photos and selfies, and download them to your smartphone for sharing on social media. Do note that the experience is available in Japanese only, and Hirakata Park admission is required in ad

With its seaside setting and palm-fringed shoreline, Sennan Long Park will channel the U.S. West Coast vibes when it hosts the LA Food & Culture Fest over the Golden Week holidays. For two days, the festival will bring a slice of Los Angeles to Osaka, showcasing its food, sports, art, music and culture. There will be multiple themed zones to explore, each offering a different aspect of the Californian lifestyle: a food area serving LA-inspired cuisine, a sports zone featuring basketball and skateboarding experiences, a stage hosting dance performances and live painting, and a bazaar filled with vintage clothing, antiques and outdoor goods. For baseball fans, this festival is also a rare chance to snag LA-exclusive Shohei Ohtani merchandise.

Udon Kyutaro is cheap, good and opens at 7am – a godsend for early risers looking for a hearty breakfast in the city. Located in the bustling business district of Honmachi, this standing-room-only udon specialist can fit eight people at a squeeze around its communal table, which explains why there’s often a queue outside its entrance. Don’t worry, turnaround is quick. Beyond its affordable pricing starting from just ¥600 and the much-welcomed early opening hours, Udon Kyutaro has built a following for its thick and chewy Sanuki-style wheat noodles. The chef-owner had honed his skills in Kagawa prefecture, the heartland of Sanuki udon, before opening this restaurant in 2017. The menu is plastered on a raw cement wall in the narrow space. The options are extensive, and though there are photos, everything is written in Japanese only. Popular items include the beef and maitake mushroom udon in clear broth, the shippoku hot soupy udon filled with simmered vegetables including daikon, carrots, fried tofu and burdock, as well as the meaty aburi udon topped with torched, smoky slices of pork belly. A selection of tempura is available at the ordering counter to accompany your noodles. Payment is cash only.

April 29 marks the start of the 2026 Golden Week, which runs through May 6. Every year, this long stretch of holidays turns Japan into a lively playground filled with an assortment of events and festivals – and Osaka is no exception. However, if the sheer number of things to do feels overwhelming, let us narrow it down for you.  These food and drink festivals, happening at some of Osaka’s biggest attractions, will appease any foodie looking for an outdoor feast that combines the chance to bask in the beautiful spring weather. While entry is free, food and drinks are to be paid for separately. Plus, the Craft Gyoza Fes and the Meat Osaka are cashless. Photo: The Meat For carnivores: The Meat Osaka, Apr 29–May 6 The Meat Osaka returns after two years, bringing an expanded lineup of top-tier meat dishes from butchers, yakiniku specialists and innovative chefs who’ve developed exclusive menus for the festival. Expect premium wagyu sushi, rare-cut katsu (deep-fried cutlets), Korean-style grilled beef tongue, hearty menchi katsu (deep-fried ground meat patties) and more, served up by vendors from across Japan. Confirmed participants include World Diner (Hokkaido black wagyu sushi and roast beef with truffle sauce), Tamagawa Butcher Shop (rare beef katsu and secret-blend menchi katsu), Korean BBQ specialist 4si (two styles of grilled tongue), and Ishigaki Island Kitauchi Ranch (premium cuts from its own cattle). Photo: Tenshiba Oktoberfest For drinking in the park: Tenshiba Okto

The Grand Green Osaka we see today is not the full picture. When this large-scale urban regeneration project reaches its final phase around 2027, Umeda will be transformed from a major commercial and transport hub into a model city district offering a new way of urban living that balances innovation with well-being and nature. Now that Umekita Park South Park has been open for over a year, the next major component of the broader Grand Green Osaka development is set to be completed in spring 2027. The good news is, we don’t have to wait that long to get a taste of Umekita Park North Park. A key attraction in the area, the Umekita Forest – or Umekita no Mori in Japanese – will open right in front of JR Osaka Station on November 20 later this year. Photo: Hankyu Hanshin Originally a wetland, then farmland, and for the last 85 years a freight yard, the green lung is designed to be a living forest, not just in name. The expansive 0.9 hectare space is just slightly smaller than a standard rugby field and will serve as a living ecosystem that contributes to the district’s urban biodiversity. Photo: Hankyu Hanshin The plants at Umekita Forest will reflect the native vegetation of the Osaka region. There will be 165 trees across 22 species, growing alongside aquatic plants and Japanese flora such as iris and azalea. More interestingly, it aims to become a new cherry blossom spot in Osaka with six sakura species totalling 23 trees. This is further supplemented by maple and katsura

It’s been teased for months with a staggered release of noteworthy restaurants, but the Michelin Guide has finally unveiled its 2026 edition for Kyoto and Osaka. The big news is that, for the first time in six years, Kyoto has a new three-star restaurant. That honor belongs to Miyamasou, an inn and restaurant with over 120 years of history, nestled in the lush Hanase mountains on the fringes of Kyoto. This destination restaurant was first awarded a star in 2010 and has held two stars since 2011. Miyamasou is renowned for its immaculate satoyama cuisine, with ingredients drawn from the surrounding wilderness, including game, river fish and mountain vegetables foraged by the chef-owner himself. The 2026 Kyoto and Osaka Michelin Guide features a total of 479 restaurants. Here’s an overview of the newly released guide. Do note that when we mention ‘new’, it means the restaurant is either newly included in the guide or has been promoted from its previous ranking. Osaka There’s no change in the number of three-star restaurants in Osaka. Japanese restaurants Taian and Kashiwaya Osaka Senriyama, as well as innovative restaurant Hajime, remain the only three establishments with the highest star ranking in the city. While kaiseki restaurant Teruya near Tanimachi 9-chome Station is the only new two-star entry, there are seven new one-star restaurants and nine new Bib Gourmand restaurants. Rounding out the list are 16 Selected restaurants making their debut in the prestigious guide. Kyot

If you’re looking for one final spring hurrah over the Golden Week holidays, dust off your trekking shoes – you’re heading out for a hike on Mt. Ikoma in Higashi-Osaka. Located towards the east of Osaka City near the border with Nara, this lush mountain is home to one of the region’s most scenic hiking trails. Every spring, the azalea slope at Narukawa Park, found midway up Mt. Ikoma, bursts into brilliant shades of white, red and pink. Photo: Higashi-Osaka Tourism Around 2,500 azalea bushes are planted here, in a stunning layered formation that resembles bands or ribbons cascading down the mountainside. From afar, the sight looks like a colourful Swiss roll, earning it the nickname ‘Azalea Roll’. The flowers grow so densely along the trail that they surround hikers on both sides. It almost feels like you’re walking through a corridor of colours. In recent years, this breathtaking scene has started trending on Japanese social media, with many people touting it as one of Osaka’s must-see spring destinations. Photo: Higashi-Osaka Tourism Nature lovers often praise Mt. Ikoma as an ideal hiking spot for its lush greenery and fresh mountain air. The azaleas just make it even more appealing, especially from late April through Golden Week in early May. However, while Mt. Ikoma is accessible from central Osaka via public transport, getting to Narukawa Park requires a bit of a trek. First, catch a train from central Osaka to Hiraoka Station, which takes slightly under an hour. The

Convenience stores in Japan are beloved for their extensive selection of ready-to-eat meals and snacks, from bento boxes and fluffy sandwiches to fried chicken and steamed buns. They make the perfect quick fuel stop whenever you feel peckish, no matter the time of day. Now, fans of Osaka street food will be pleased to know that 7-Eleven has started serving takoyaki at outlets across the country. Don’t worry, these aren’t the pre-frozen, microwaved versions; they are freshly prepared in-store.  Octopus balls are traditionally grilled, but the ones at 7-Eleven are fried instead. So while the experience may not be exactly the same as eating out on the streets of Dotonbori, the snack will at least be piping hot. Photo: Koji FujitaA takoyaki vendor in Dotonbori These konbini takoyaki are made with a rich, bonito-based dashi batter and feature generously sized octopus chunks. You can expect the signature gooey centre, a deep umami flavour and a satisfying bite. Of course, no takoyaki is complete without the sauce and mayonnaise, which 7-Eleven serves on the side. A three-piece set will only cost you ¥213, or you can go for six pieces at ¥427. Photo: 7-Eleven Japan So, the next time you’re craving this iconic taste of Osaka but can’t make it to the city’s top takoyaki joints, just swing by your nearest 7-Eleven. Fingers crossed they’re firing up the fryer for a fresh batch, as availability may vary by store. More from Time Out Osaka See 40,000 wisteria clusters at this private

After cherry blossoms, it’s now wisteria’s time to bloom. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track spot in Osaka to see these gorgeous spring flowers, this local gem in Sennan City is worth checking out. Tucked away in Sennan City, south of Osaka prefecture, Shindachi-shuku is one of the historical post towns located along the ancient Kumano Kaido pilgrimage routes. In this old neighbourhood, you’ll find the Kajimoto Residence.  Although this is a private home, the family opens the gates to the public for one week every April, when the wisteria is blooming. For 2026, the Kajimoto Residence welcomes visitors from April 19 to April 26, between 10am and 5pm. What makes the noda wisteria here so remarkable is that all 40,000 cascading clusters of the purple flowers actually come from a single tree, which has been cultivated with great care for over 40 years. Photo: Shawn Ccf/Dreamstime At most wisteria festivals, you simply walk beneath blooming trellises, but the experience here is unique. In addition to the purple tunnels at ground level, you can climb onto an observation deck to admire the blooms from above. This rare perspective makes it appear as if you are standing over a violet sea, with roofs peeking through the vibrant canopy. During the festival, you can also explore the residence’s Japanese courtyard, which is designed in the style of a dry landscape garden. There are also local handmade crafts and flowers for sale. While entry is free, visitors are encouraged t

The star-studded ‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ sees Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy and Jack Black reprise their roles for another animated big-screen adventure. This time, Mario, Luigi and friends travel into space for an epic showdown against Bowser and his son, Bowser Jr. Ahead of the film’s Japan release this Friday April 24, Nintendo has taken over an entire train on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and transformed it into a moving Mario universe. This special train, running exclusively in the Kansai region and only for a limited time, features fan-favourite characters including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser, Bowser Jr., Toad and Rosalina. The interior from the floor to the top of the train is fully decked out with visuals inspired by the movie. This creates an immersive environment that feels like stepping into the movie’s ‘galaxy’. The red Midosuji Line is one of Osaka’s most important routes, running north-south and connecting major hubs such as Namba, Shin-Osaka, Shinsaibashi, Tennoji and Umeda. However, do note that not every service on the Midosuji Line will feature this Super Mario train, but keep an eye out for it before the campaign ends on May 2. More from Time Out Osaka New Universal Studios Japan manhole covers are popping up in Osaka Suntory to offer Roku Gin distillery tour and tasting in Osaka Stay amidst history at the newly opened Imperial Hotel, Kyoto Four new Osaka restaurants selected for the Michelin Guide 2026 How to get a free Krispy Kreme doughnut

As breakfast is traditionally eaten at home, the morning meal isn't as widely available in Japan as you might expect. Many cafes and restaurants don’t open until closer to lunchtime, so early risers usually have to rely on hotel buffets, chain coffee shops offering 'morning sets', or the nearby convenience store. Here’s some good news. After a successful trial run, Krispy Kreme Japan has rolled out its 'Asa OriGre' campaign (short for ‘Morning Original Glazed’) across the country. For a limited time, this promotion offers the brand’s signature Original Glazed doughnut for free with every drink purchase. We have crunched the numbers and it’s a steal. A hot coffee will set you back ¥345 for takeaway (or ¥352 for eat-in), but with that, you’ll enjoy a fluffy Original Glazed doughnut for free (usually ¥216 for takeaway or ¥220 eat-in). Photo: Krispy Kreme How to get the deal This promotion is only available until 11am at Krispy Kreme outlets that serve drinks. So stores that open after 11am are excluded. The Kobe Marui branch is also excluded, even though the store opens at 10.30am on Sundays and holidays. Where to get your free doughnut in Osaka and Kobe In Osaka prefecture, seven Krispy Kreme outlets are offering the free doughnut – four of which are in the Osaka city centre. They are located in Kita Shinsaibashi (opens at 8am), JR Osaka Station (8am), Diamor Osaka underground mall in Umeda (10am), and Kyobashi Keihan Mall (10.30am). In Kobe, you’ll find the deal at the Krisp

Made from six quintessential Japanese botanicals – sakura flower and leaves, sencha and gyokuro teas, sansho pepper and yuzu peel – Suntory’s Roku Gin is one of the few Japanese gins to have gained international popularity. If you’re a fan, here’s some good news: the distillery in Osaka will be open for public tours starting Friday May 8. Suntory’s Osaka Distillery is the company’s oldest facility, built in 1919 by founder Shinjiro Torii to produce Western spirits with Japanese sensibilities. Just last year, it became the first facility in Japan to win the Liqueur Producer Trophy at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. Photo: Suntory Following a major renovation in 2024, the site now features a newly built Spirits & Liqueur Atelier, where a wide variety of base spirits are produced and blended into products including Roku Gin. The upgrade also includes a dedicated visitor centre. Photo: Suntory This new tour focuses on the making of Roku Gin, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, along with guided tastings. Photo: Suntory The experience begins at the Welcome Lounge, where a large screen introduces the history of the distillery and its range of products. From there, you’ll pass through the Botanical Road, lined with the very plants used in Roku Gin, before learning about the distillation equipment and process. Photo: Suntory Then, in the Creation Room, surrounded by a 360-degree immersive screen, you’ll be guided through a tasting session

One of Japan’s most popular theme parks, Universal Studios Japan officially marked its 25th anniversary on Tuesday, March 31. The good news is, the park is rolling out an exciting anniversary programme throughout 2026, with special events and initiatives both inside the park and across Osaka. What we’re most excited about are the new USJ manhole covers. There will be five exclusive designs featuring the park’s beloved characters alongside iconic Osaka landmarks including Osaka Castle and Osaka City Central Public Hall. These drain covers will appear at 25 locations across the city, and installations are being carried out sequentially. Photo: Universal Studios Japan The first design has already been unveiled – and it’s a vibrant, eye-catching one. It features Woody and Winnie Woodpecker as well as Elmo, posing against the aforementioned Osaka landmarks. Here are the first five locations where you’ll find this particular USJ manhole cover: The sidewalk near the east entrance of Kyocera Dome Osaka The entrance to Fukushima Shotendori Shopping Street, near JR Fukushima Station The sidewalk near exit 8 of Tanimachi 4-chome Station, a key access point to Osaka Castle Outside Exit 11 of Shin-Osaka Station, perfect if you’re arriving in Osaka via the shinkansen Near the west exit of JR Sakuranomiya Station, in front of the Miyakojima Nakano Post Office Happy manhole hunting! We’ll keep you updated as more USJ manhole designs are installed across the city. More from Time Out Osak

Hurray, now that spring is finally here – this year’s cherry blossom season is off to a good start. If you prefer a leisurely cherry blossom experience with more elbow room, this list is for you. We’ve rounded up a few of the more spacious and less crowded (only relatively, to be honest) cherry blossom sites around Tokyo for you to enjoy. Photo: Picture Cells/PixtaKanda River cherry blossoms Kanda River The Kanda River is one of the lesser-known sakura spots in Tokyo. It has similar views to the Meguro River in Nakameguro, but minus the crowds. While several stations are within walking distance from the river, a good access point is Edogawabashi Station, whose Exit 1A leads you directly to the start of the sakura stretch. Double your blossom viewing with a stop by the pristine and scenic Higo-Hosokawa Garden, which is also along the Kanda River.  Photo: Lim Chee Wah Aoyama Cemetery Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Aoyama, this cemetery has been around since 1874. It’s where many of Tokyo’s most significant personalities were laid to rest. The site also has a lot of sakura trees, and it’s especially beautiful in spring. Since this is a cemetery, it sees less crowds and has a more quiet and subdued atmosphere.  Photo: Lim Chee WahKoishikawa Botanical Gardens Koishikawa Botanical Garden Run by the University of Tokyo, this botanical garden is out of the way and hence sees less tourist traffic. However, it has a huge sakura section, with some of the tallest and bigg

[Update, March 26] Good news! The 2026 cherry blossom season has officially begun in Osaka. More details here. *** Some good news to get you through the winter blues. The trusty Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) has just released the seventh update to its official cherry blossom forecast for 2026. According to the March 12 report, sakura season is expected to begin in Osaka and Kyoto in less than two weeks. Every year, JMC issues nationwide predictions for both the initial flowering and full bloom dates of somei yoshino, Japan’s most iconic and prevalent cherry blossom species. Through its dedicated website, you can check the estimated bloom dates for around 1,000 cherry blossom destinations across the country, from Hokkaido in the north to Kagoshima in the south. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation So what does the latest forecast reveal for the Kansai region? In Osaka, cherry blossoms are predicted to begin flowering on March 24, with trees reaching full bloom (known as mankai) around March 31. Kyoto will most likely see its sakura bloom a day earlier than Osaka, at around March 23, but reaching full bloom a day later, on April 1. That’s roughly three days earlier than average. Elsewhere in Kansai, the outlook is similar In Nara, flowering is expected to start around March 24, with full bloom happening around March 31. In Wakayama, cherry blossoms will most likely emerge on March 26 and reach their peak on April 3. Kobe, on the other hand, will see its first blos