Lim Chee Wah

We’ve come to the midway point of the year, and June is a bit of a strange one. It marks the transition from spring to summer in Osaka, with frequent rain as well as rising heat and humidity. But the city doesn’t seem too bothered by the weather. There are plenty of spectacular events lined up this month, starting with not one but three fireworks festivals crammed into the first weekend of June alone. Talk about kicking off the month with a bang! Meanwhile, the city-wide Osaka Art & Design 2026 runs through mid-June, alongside a steady stream of events, exhibitions and markets across the city. So don’t let the weather get you down. Scroll on for our curated list of the best things to do in Osaka this June, and make it an exciting month filled with festivals, culture and amazing experiences. Note: we update this list frequently as new events are announced – check back often for the latest happenings in Osaka. Want to enjoy the great outdoors? Check out these top beaches and hiking trails in and around Osaka

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do > 初夏に訪れたい、大阪・京都のアジサイ名所5選 春の象徴が桜なら、夏の訪れを告げる花はアジサイだろう。6月から7月上旬にかけて、色鮮やかな花々が葉の茂る低木に大きく咲き誇り、そのフォトジェニックな姿は、春から夏へと移り変わる梅雨の到来を感じさせる。 雨の日が続き、湿度も高くなるこの時期を少し憂鬱に感じるかもしれないが、本格的な暑さが到来する前に自然を満喫できる絶好のシーズンでもある。 大阪では、府内屈指の景観を誇る公園でアジサイが見頃を迎え、京都では市街地から離れた静かな寺院で、その美しい姿を味わえる。中には、6月中旬に夜間ライトアップを実施するスポットもある。 この機会に足を運び、初夏を彩る景色を堪能してほしい。

Spend some time in Osaka and you’ll realise the city has a rebellious streak, especially when it comes to food. A good example of this culinary ingenuity is spice curry, which has become an iconic Osaka dish, just like takoyaki. Curry came to Japan from India via the British Navy during the Meiji era (1868–1912), and it has evolved over decades into a beloved yoshoku (Japanese-style western cooking) staple across the country. Since then, it has also spawned an array of variations including curry bread, curry udon and soup curry (synonymous with Hokkaido). But while Japanese curry in general relies heavily on pre-mixed curry powder and sports a thick flour-based roux, Osaka takes the dish in a radically different direction. Osaka spice curry bypasses the heavy flour roux for a lighter, more fluid base built around savoury stocks like dashi. This gives the dish a comparatively lighter texture. More distinctively, this Osaka-style curry utilises a robust handpicked mix of warm spices – including cardamom, black pepper, ginger, cumin and clove – to deliver a punchy, more complex flavour. It is also intensely aromatic and visually striking, as a plate of spice curry often features a vibrant mix of colours and textures. So the next time you’re hankering for heat and spice in your meal, head to these speciality restaurants for some of the best Osaka spice curry in the city. RECOMMENDED: Did you know Osaka is one of the world best cities for food in 2026?

Early summer in Kyoto is an exciting time, especially with hydrangeas blooming in some of the ancient city's most atmospheric and historic temples. If you're looking to experience Kyoto's biggest draw – its temples – in a completely different light, you’ve come at just the right time. Tofukuji is open for special night viewings this month, during which its grounds are transformed by enchanting illuminations and calming soundscapes. Of course, there is plenty more to see and do in Kyoto this month, including a spectacular music-synchronised fireworks display. Check out our list of events and festivals below to plan your perfect month in Kyoto. Spending some time in Osaka as well? Here are our top picks for the best June events and festivals happening in Osaka.

Osaka’s caffeine scene has come on leaps and bounds in recent times. Whether it’s a sleek speciality coffee shop or a traditional kissaten café you’re after, there’s a plethora of options to choose from throughout the city now. Independent and small-batch roasters who source, roast and blend their own beans are becoming more common, too. Some of these local roasters have even become mini-destinations in themselves, as they roast their beans right on site: you can pick up a bag of freshly roasted coffee to go after enjoying an energising shot on the spot. So upgrade your next coffee run by heading to some of our favourite roasters in Osaka. All these establishments feature seating – though some are limited to just a few benches while others are more spacious – where you can kick back with a freshly brewed cuppa after a day of exploring the city. While you're there, consider pairing their signature roast or blend with something sweet for that perfect pick-me-up. Prefer something stronger? Here are some of Osaka's best cocktail bars

Cada any elaborem una classificació de les millors ciutats del món per menjar i beure. L'objectiu és retre homenatge als xefs, els fogons i les parades de menjar de carrer que alimenten la ciutat. I com es decideix la llista? Enguany, el rànquing de les Millors Ciutats per Menjar de Time Out s'ha creat a partir d'una enquesta a més de 24.000 residents de tot el món. Els vam demanar que valoressin la qualitat general de l'escena gastronòmica del seu lloc de residència, el preu de sortir a sopar i els punts gastronòmics en els quals creuen que destaca la seva ciutat. A continuació, vam combinar aquestes milers de respostes amb el criteri del panell d'experts culinaris de Time Out (editors i crítics gastronòmics de tota la nostra xarxa), que van votar per les ciutats que consideren els destins gastronòmics més estimulants del planeta en aquest moment. Per garantir que la llista reflecteixi fidelment les capitals culinàries globals, només la ciutat amb la puntuació més alta de cada país va aconseguir entrar al Top 20 definitiu. Com demostra la nostra selecció, vivim un moment divertidíssim per sortir a menjar per la ciutat. Restaurants des de Lisboa fins a Lima estan servint alguns dels plats més sorprenents, atrevits i francament deliciosos que es puguin trobar. Què hi ha al menú? Polos de crema de mandarina a Nova York, fideus d'espina de peix a Copenhague i un sofisticat phở a Ciutat Ho Chi Minh. Hi ha alta cuina a Melbourne i fun dining (alta cuina divertida) a Ciutat del Cap

Cherry blossoms are the icon of spring, while summer is defined by hydrangeas. These colourful blooms appear in large clusters on leafy bushes from June through early July, and their photogenic arrival marks the start of the rainy season that sees Japan transition from spring into summer. We get it, the regular wet days and rising humidity may feel uncomfortable, but this early summer period is perhaps your last chance to head out for one final romp in the great outdoors before the intense heat sets in. In Osaka, hydrangeas grow in abundance at some of the prefecture's most scenic parks, while in Kyoto, you'll find them at serene temples tucked away from the city centre crowds – one of which even hosts an after-dark illumination in mid-June. So, head out and catch these gorgeous blooms now. And if you're looking to explore more nature, here are the best beaches and hiking trails in and around Osaka.

There's always something exciting to do in the great city of Osaka. With summer just around the corner, the city continues to host a variety of fantastic events and festivals leading up to the highly anticipated fireworks season. Meanwhile, Osaka Art & Design 2026 enters its third week, with a host of exhibitions and art tours taking place across the city. And if you're looking to check out the now-blooming hydrangeas, here are the best Osaka parks and Kyoto temples to see these early summer blossoms. So, are you ready to head out for a fantastic weekend? Explore our curated list of the best events and things to do in and around Osaka right now. Plan ahead: Here are the best events and things to do in Osaka and Kyoto for the rest of June 2026

Every year, we create a definitive ranking of the world’s greatest cities for eating and drinking. The aim is to celebrate the chefs, kitchens and street food stalls that feed the city, bringing locals and visitors together to savour life’s one greatest pleasure: an excellent meal. So, how is the list decided? This year, Time Out’s Best Cities for Food with Intrepid Travel was created on the back of a survey of more than 24,000 locals, based all around the world. We asked them to rate the overall quality of the food scene where they live, how affordable it is to eat out and the food spots they believe their city does best.  We then paired their thousands of responses with the insight of Time Out’s expert food panel – editors and food critics from across Time Out’s network – who voted for the cities they think are the most exciting dining destinations on the planet right now. Only the highest-scoring city in each country made the final 20, ensuring our list reflects culinary capitals globally.  As our list demonstrates, it’s a very fun time to be eating out in the city right now. Restaurants from Lisbon to Lima are serving up some of the most striking, daring and downright delicious plates of food you can find. On the menu? Satsuma creamsicles in New York, fish bone noodles in Copenhagen and fancy phở in Ho Chi Minh. There’s fine-dining in Melbourne and ‘fun dining’ in Cape Town, food trends from sandwich crazes to elevated tacos, and coffee and cocktail scenes well worth trav

Every year, Time Out publishes the results of its international survey ranking the world’s best cities. Our team then dives deeper into the data to uncover other fascinating insights, like the world’s best cities for culture, the coolest neighborhoods and—the one I look forward to most—our ranking of the world’s best food cities. To get there, we surveyed thousands of city dwellers and asked them to rate their city’s food scene across 18 different criteria, including quality, affordability and diversity. Then we tapped our global network of chefs, editors and food critics to provide local insight into what makes their particular cities such wonderful places to eat—and not just right now. Our global network of food writers shared knowledge about the history of food in their cities, the dishes each place is known for, and the influence of different cultures on the local food scene. We’re serving up all this delicious intel in the tastiest list you’ll read all year, filled with nuggets from folks who frequent the bars, are restaurant regulars and know their city’s food scene inside and out. Ready to dig in? Here are the greatest cities for food on the planet.

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do > 大阪、6月に行くべきイベント23選 6月は一年の折り返し地点。そして大阪では、少し不思議な季節でもある。春から夏へと移り変わる時期で、雨の日が増える一方、気温や湿度も徐々に高まっていく。しかし、そんな天候など気にしていないかのように、大阪では今月も見逃せないイベントが数多く開催される。 中でも、6月最初の週末だけで3つもの花火大会が予定されていること。まさに月の幕開けを華やかに彩るスタートだ。さらに、街全体を舞台にした「Osaka Art & Design 2026」が6月中旬まで開催されるほか、各地で展覧会やマーケットも続々と実施する。 梅雨空に気分を左右される必要はない。この時期ならではの体験が詰まった、注目のイベントをチェックしてみよう。 関連記事『大阪、6月に行くべき無料のアート展12選』

While Kyoto is renowned for its Unesco World Heritage Sites and immaculately preserved ancient temples, the former capital of Japan is more than just a living museum. This vibrant city is an amalgamation of old and new, where historical traditions exist harmoniously alongside modern infrastructure. May is an exciting month to be in Kyoto, as it kicks off one of Japan's busiest domestic travel periods with the Golden Week holidays. The city comes alive with a vibrant mix of activities, from a world-class exhibition to a storied festival dating back more than a thousand years. So, if you're in the city this spring, plan your visit with our guide to the best events and festivals happening in Kyoto this month. Going to Osaka instead? Check out our list of the best May events and festivals in Osaka

A highly rated curry restaurant in Osaka, Kyu Yam Tei Nakanoshima Yokan offers a good variety of curries, from Japanese-style spiced versions to Indian and even Thai ones. A standard meal lets you choose two or three curries from the day’s selection, which usually features four options. Each set comes with rice, a bean curry, a small salad and a dessert. On our past visits, we enjoyed the chicken keema curry, pork keema curry and Thai red curry with shrimp. For an even more substantial meal, the special plate is available after 1pm. This generous platter comes with spiced grilled chicken, two kinds of keema curry, a meat or fish soup curry, pickles, a bean curry, two side dishes and a dessert. You can also choose your preferred rice: Japanese brown rice, Thai jasmine rice or a mixed-grain blend. The restaurant’s interior looks like an old-world English mansion, with chandeliers, lace table mats, dainty vases and china, and floral wallpaper lending it a retro countryside charm. At the entrance, a deer trophy mount hangs on the wall, reinforcing the restaurant’s eccentric vibe. Peculiar as it may sound, the décor seems to captivate the restaurant’s devoted regulars, who cite the setting as a unique part of its dining experience. Note: this restaurant only takes cash

A symbol of hope and peace, sky lanterns have become so popular that there are now festivals dedicated to them in many cities across Asia. This July, you can enjoy the experience in the city of Sennan in Osaka prefecture. Held over the July 4–5 weekend at Sennan Long Park, Senshu Beach Lantern Fest is set to release a sea of sky lanterns each evening at around 7.30pm. This year, the organisers are adding special blue and red lanterns to the usual orange ones, as a nod to the Osaka Expo last year. Participants can choose their preferred colour on a first-come, first-served basis. For safety and environmental reasons – and with the venue just across the water from Kansai International Airport – the lanterns are tethered with strings and don’t float away. They’re also lit with LEDs, so they’re child-friendly with no fire hazards. While entry to the event is free, you’ll need a ticket to release a lantern or access the special viewing areas. The ¥5,000 Lantern Exchange Ticket (¥5,500 on the day) allows a group of up to four to release one lantern. The Family and Pair Seats, on the other hand, are priced at ¥4,400 and ¥2,200 respectively. These tickets grant access to the special viewing area and include drinks (four for families, two for couples), but you’ll need to purchase a lantern separately should you wish to release one. Of course, there’s more to Senshu Beach Lantern Fest than just lanterns. Kids can enjoy traditional festival games and a giant bouncy castle. There’s also

One of Japan’s most iconic summer folk dance festivals, Awa Odori can be traced back to its origins in Tokushima prefecture more than 400 years ago. This lively celebration has since brought its infectious energy to many cities across Japan.  Awa Odori is famous for its distinctive choreography. Women dance gracefully on the tips of their wooden geta sandals while wearing fan-shaped straw hats known as amigasa, accompanied by other dancers performing a crouching-style manoeuvre in short happi coats – all backed by a live band of flutes and drums. The mood is so exuberant that the festival often culminates in a giant block party.  As a lead-up to the grand Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima this August, the organisers are throwing a preview celebration at Osaka Station City over the June 20–21 weekend. The two-day event is spread across two sites. On the second-floor Atrium Plaza, you’ll find screenings of Awa Odori videos, official festival merchandise and local produce from Tokushima. The Time and Space Plaza (also known as Toki-no-Hiroba) on the fifth floor will feature a stage hosting two hour-long Awa Odori performances a day: 3pm and 5pm on Saturday June 20, as well as 12.30pm and 3pm on Sunday June 21. Between the shows, do check out the tourist information booth to learn more about travelling in Tokushima.

Osaka’s take on the classic Japanese curry will easily appeal to those who appreciate bold, fiery and spice-forward flavours. Instead of the thick consistency of regular Japanese curry, Osaka spiced curry skips the stew-like roux in favour of an aromatic blend of cumin, black pepper, clove, cardamom and a host of other warm spices. These complex, palate-tingling flavours are cooked into a base of dashi-like stock for a comparatively lighter finish. Moreover, the dish is often served with bright, acidic pickles to take the edge off the heat. Khaos Spice Diner, located in Kitahorie near Amerikamura, serves a tantalising selection of this Kansai speciality. The menu always features three different curries, two of which rotate on a weekly basis. The restaurant’s signature Chaos Keema Curry is an evergreen staple that wins over patrons with a beautiful balance of sweet, sour and spicy notes.  The weekly chicken curry takes inspiration from global cuisines, with options such as kyet thar hin (a traditional Myanmarese chicken curry), North Indian-style chicken ginger curry, pepper chicken masala, and many others. The third option is the ‘chef’s choice curry’. This is where Khaos goes wild with some interestingly inventive fusions. Past highlights included a clam chowder masala, a tongue-numbing black mapo keema curry, and even a Korean-inspired sundubu masala. For your curry plate, you can have one type of curry (¥1,200), two (¥1,300) or all three (¥1,350), alongside your choice of

Two of Abeno ward’s most cherished traditions will take over Abeno Harukas on the morning of Sunday June 21. Carried out as a protection against misfortune and to usher in prosperity, the rituals will culminate high above the city at the Harukas 300 observation deck. The Abeno Mikoshi portable shrine has a history dating back 130 years. Today, it’s closely associated with the area's Abe Oji Shrine. During the Heisei era (1989–2019), the shrine disappeared from public view for more than a decade before its revival in 2018. The Hannan Shishimai, on the other hand, suffered a similar fate. This local version of the classic Japanese lion dance was once a common occurrence at summer festivals. Following a period of decline, the lion dance was proudly brought back in 2019.  On June 21, you’ll get to witness both traditions in and around Abeno Harukas. The procession kicks off at 9am at the first-floor concourse of Osaka-Abenobashi Station before moving around the Abeno Harukas perimeter. At around 10.30am, the portable shrine and the lion will appear at the Harukas 300 observation deck for a blessing ritual. Throughout the event, prayers will be accompanied by the traditional Osaka Jime rhythmic hand-clapping.

Kagami is an awe-inspiring project conceived and created during the final four years of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s life. Here, visitors don special headsets to experience a digitally reconstructed performance by Sakamoto at a grand piano within a mixed-reality space. This allows for a fully immersive enjoyment of the performance, at a proximity that’s impossible in a traditional concert setting. The experience will also be enhanced by dreamy 3D visuals that respond to the music.  The exhibition premiered in New York in 2023 and has since toured London, Taipei, Singapore, Melbourne and several other international cities to critical acclaim. Now finally arriving in Japan, this exhibition will feature an expanded version titled ‘Kagami+’. The venue will be designed for a multi-sensory immersion incorporating video, photography, text and even a scent blended by Sakamoto himself. In addition to the main Kagami+ experience, visitors will be able to explore other exhibits that offer deeper insight into Sakamoto’s music. These include the theatre and visual piece ‘Time, Time’ by Ryuichi Sakamoto and Shiro Takatani, ‘Ryuichi Sakamoto: Playing the Piano 2026 - D’, and a new sound installation, among other works.

There’s been a lack of major alcohol events in Kyoto since the pandemic, and this inaugural sake and beer festival aims to change that. Known as 'Kome to Mugi' in Japanese, the Rice & Barley Festival will bring together 14 sake and 14 craft beer breweries from across Japan, accompanied by ten popular Kyoto-based restaurants. Held at the Shichijo Entrance Square of Umekoji Park, the event offers free entry, with drink tickets priced at ¥200 each. You can also purchase an advance ticket package at ¥2,700. It comes with a sake tasting glass, a beer cup, a glass holder and ¥2,000 worth of drink tickets. Participating sake breweries include Matsui Shuzo from Kyoto, Miyoshino Shuzo from Nara, Otsuka Shuzo from Gifu, and Akishika Shuzo from Osaka. As for the craft beer, you can expect Woodmill Brewery Kyoto, Yellow Beer Works from Fukushima, Gangi Brewing from Niigata, and Free Spirits Brewing from Hyogo, just to name a few.

The only Osaka entry in the 2026 ranking of the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops, Ult is a beautifully designed coffee shop and roastery set in the unassuming foodie neighbourhood of Kyomachibori. Replete with calming earth tones and artisanal design details that give the space a refined, ceramics-studio-like aesthetic, the coffee shop half of Ult is compact compared to the far more spacious roastery next door. Seating is also limited to just a few benches inside and out. Led by its World Barista Champion founder Boram Um, Ult deals in competition-level coffee, micro-lot beans and speciality blends – all of which are available to purchase at the coffee shop. The competition series features ultra-rare beans roasted with the utmost precision for master baristas, while the micro-lot selection caters to coffee drinkers who revel in terroir. For drinking on-site or takeaway, you can choose from among the espresso-based drinks, or go for a pour-over to sample one of the house-roasted beans.

Famous Tokyo-based bakery-café chain Bread, Espresso & has set up its flagship roastery in the quiet neighbourhood of Nishitenma in Osaka, and it’s easily one of the city’s most atmospheric places to enjoy a cup of coffee.  Formerly a factory from the nostalgic Showa era (1926–1989), the facility now supplies coffee to the brand’s 30-plus outlets across Japan, all roasted here using a state-of-the-art Probatone roasting machine from Germany. Moreover, the repurposed space also houses a gelato workshop producing an enticing selection of flavours including matcha, earl grey, salted caramel, black sesame and many more. To best savour the coffee and gelato freshly roasted and churned on the premises, order one of the signature affogatos. Designed to look like its namesake pastry, the doughnut affogato comes in two variants: a 'white' version that pours espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato, and a 'black' version that reverses the composition by pouring milk over rich espresso gelato.  For something even more indulgent, the canelé affogato combines your choice of gelato with a beautifully caramelised canelé, topped with a strong shot of espresso. On the menu, you’ll also find an array of toasts made with the brand’s signature loaf, featuring toppings like prosciutto and eggs, salmon and cream cheese, as well as the classic Japanese pairing of red bean and butter. Bread, Espresso & Roastery has beautifully preserved the factory’s original retro vibes. The ground floor offers a mo

One of Kansai’s most popular seafood purveyors and restaurant operators, Daiki Suisan is hosting a special bluefin tuna-cutting demonstration at 45 of its outlets across the region. For one day only, each of these participating outlets will showcase the skills of its master chef, who will butcher and fillet bluefin tuna delivered directly from fishing ports. These fish are fresh and never frozen; this ensures that their unique texture and richm unctuous fat are well preserved. Tuna-cutting showcases are not common, as they’re usually reserved for selected festivals and private events. For this one Saturday in June, however, you can witness the spectacle at multiple locations across Osaka, and watch in awe as the chefs break down massive bluefin tuna with mind-blowing precision with their immaculate knife skills while the crowds cheer them on. After the massive tuna has been broken down into parts and carved into fillets, the fish will be served fresh as sashimi, sushi and other dishes. You’ll also get the chance to sample ultra-rare cuts such as kama-toro (fatty collar meat) and nakaochi (meat scraped from the backbone). However, do note that these food items are for purchase. You can catch the bluefin tuna cutting demonstration at Daiki Suisan conveyor belt sushi restaurants in Dotonbori (12noon), Abeno Q’s Mall (12noon), Temmabashi (12noon), Namba Takashimaya (1pm and 6pm) and Namba City (1pm and 6pm), as well as the flagship Maguro Park seafood market and food court (11am)

Good Coffee Fest is one of Hanshin Umeda department store’s signature pop-up food events, and this year, it’s bringing together 19 of Japan’s most popular roasters for a two-week caffeine extravaganza. This edition focuses on highlighting exceptional coffee for everyday drinking, and it’s divided into two halves, each with its own lineup of roasters. Alongside these coffee experts, you’ll also find stalls offering brewing equipment, coffee lifestyle merchandise, as well as sweets and treats that pair well with coffee such as canelés and bean-to-bar chocolate. The first half of the festival runs from Wednesday June 24 to Monday June 29. It features roasters highly regarded for their expertise, such as Ethicus Coffee from Shizuoka, Rec Coffee from Fukuoka, Kent Coffee Makers from Kagoshima, and Appartement from Kumamoto (known for its Peruvian Inca Geisha coffee), just to name a few. Then, in the second half between Tuesday June 30 and Monday July 6, you’ll find a selection of roasters known for their innovative approaches. Highlights include Keyaki Coffee from Miyagi, Ignis from Tokyo, Nomad Coffee from Shizuoka, and Baristart Coffee from Hokkaido, which serves a mean latte made with Jersey milk from Chiyoda Farm) To fully enjoy the festival, get the ¥2,530 starter kit. It comes with an event-exclusive mini mug plus four tasting tickets. Additional tasting tickets are available in sets of two at ¥880. The participating coffee shops will also be selling regular-sized coffee and

Nestled in the forests of Higashi-Osaka straddling the border between Osaka and Nara prefectures, Nukata Park is home to the Kansai region’s largest hydrangea garden. It boasts roughly 25,000 plants of 30 varieties, including the rare, star-shaped Shichidanka, also known as the Phantom Hydrangea. During peak bloom, usually between late June and early July, the hydrangeas burst out in a spectacular riot of colours. You’ll find them all along a 1.5km hiking trail on the slopes of Mt. Ikoma. The Nukata Park Information Center will open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the festival period, offering guidance to visitors as well as selling drinks and ice cream to help everyone stay cool. As the garden follows a mountain trail, proper walking or trekking shoes are recommended. For the easiest access, take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Ikoma Station, transfer to the Kintetsu Ikoma Cable Line, and alight at Ikomasanjo Station. From there, the Hydrangea Garden is about 40 minutes’ walk away.

Moss enthusiasts, this one's for you: JR Tokai Tours is offering its oddly specific Kyoto Moss Tour Passport again this year. The ¥1,500 booklet is available until September 30, granting admission into any four of the six participating Kyoto temples known for their spectacular moss gardens. It's a strangely niche proposition, we know, but we promise they're all quite lovely. Photo: JR TokaiKyoto Moss Tour Passport 2026 Given that buying separate tickets for any four of these temples would add up to more than the cost of the booklet, it's quite the bargain. To get your hands on the 'passport', you can purchase an e-ticket here, which you must then use to pick up your booklet in person at the Kyoto Tourist Information Center 'Kyo Navi' in Kyoto Station.Read on for more info on the six participating temples. Photo: Digital Love/PixtaMyoshin-ji Temple Keishun-in Myoshinji Temple Keishunin (妙心寺桂春院) Built in 1337, the majestic Myoshinji Temple has evolved over centuries into the sprawling Buddhist complex seen today. Scattered across this massive site is a network of historical sub-temples, many of which, particularly those erected in the 1600s, have been officially designated as Tangible Cultural Properties of Kyoto. Tucked away in the furthest northeast corner is Keishunin Temple, home to a garden so splendid it is now officially a National Site of Scenic Beauty. The grounds are made up of four distinct dry-landscape gardens, including the Shojo courtyard garden featuring whi

Osaka is obsessed with food. That is a fact. And we are also very good at cooking, serving and eating it – so much so that the city is widely known as ‘the nation’s kitchen’. While we don’t need anyone else to tell us this, it still feels good to have our pride and joy validated on the world stage, as the latest Time Out global survey just did by naming Osaka one of 2026’s best cities for food. So, how did we get here? Through sheer numbers. Time Out consulted more than 24,000 locals around the world to rate the food scene in their cities, based on a host of criteria including quality, choice and affordability. This data was then combined with votes and insight from Time Out’s international network of food experts and critics. Only the city with the highest score from each country made the final 20. The 2026 list of the World’s Best Cities for Food is topped by Lima, the capital of Peru, with Osaka coming in at No. 12. What’s really interesting is that locals in Osaka rate the city higher for affordability (at 71 percent) than quality (at 68 percent), but not by much. This is very telling, actually, as the narrow gap points to an exciting evolution in the city's food scene, a key reason why Osaka is in this year’s top 20. For the longest time, Osaka has been the undisputed street food capital of Japan. But lately, the city is rapidly evolving into a serious dining destination. This transformation is largely driven by a new generation of chefs who are reinterpreting Japanese f

Plastic pollution, especially at sea, has reached a critical point. And the issue becomes even more tangible – and alarming – when you look at the actual numbers. Today, roughly 150 million tons of plastic are floating in the world’s oceans, and by 2050, it’s estimated that the amount of marine debris could exceed the total weight of fish in the sea. Every year, Japan alone collects around 30,000 to 50,000 tons of marine plastic from its coastlines. What’s even more worrying is that research has shown that the microplastic concentration in Japan’s waters is a staggering 27 times higher than the global average. Photo: Saga PrefecturePlastic waste washed ashore at Cape Hado in Saga prefecture Cape Hado in Saga prefecture, located on northern Kyushu island, is struggling with this eco-crisis, as it sees a non-stop barrage of marine plastic wash ashore from both domestic and international sources. Local volunteer groups and authorities have been tirelessly clearing and even tried upcycling this waste, but the impact on marine life, fisheries and local tourism continues to intensify. This led to the creation of the World Ocean Plastic Planning Center at the cape. Also known as PlaPla, the facility serves as an educational hub for people to understand the severity of the issue and discover the actions they can take to fight it. This will hopefully lead to a reduction in plastic waste, which will also help preserve the beautiful waters of the Karatsu–Genkai region. Photo: Saga Pr

It's almost two and a half years since the New Year’s Day earthquake devastated the picturesque Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture. Massive efforts have gone into rebuilding the region, and Pokémon is contributing to the reconstruction in the cutest way possible. ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Wakura Pokémon Footbath The global pop culture phenomenon has recently opened a new footbath at Wakura Onsen, one of the largest tourist destinations on the Noto Peninsula. The Wakura Pokémon Footbath, located within Yuttari Park, is open to the public for free – and it is just adorable.  ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Pikachu at the Wakura Pokémon Footbath Fed by natural hot spring water, the facility features 3D sculptures of some of the franchise’s most iconic creatures including Gyarados, Vaporeon, Poliwag, Politoad, Psyduck and, of course, Pikachu. Here, you get to take a relaxing foot soak among your Pokemon buddies while gazing out at the sea, as Yuttari Park sits right by the coast. ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Vaporeon at the Wakura Pokémon Footbath The Wakura Pokémon Footbath is free – just remember to bring along a small towel to dry your feet afterwards.  ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.Quaxly at the Wakura Pokémon Footbath While Wakura Pokémon Footbath is accessible from Osaka, the destination is a bit of a trek and involves multiple transfers. First, hop on the Thunderbird Limited Expre

A Kyoto headliner, the annual Gion Festival is Japan’s most iconic celebration, with a history dating back to the year 869. Held every July for a full month, this grand affair honours Yasaka Shrine with an elaborate line-up of traditional events. The festival’s crowning moments, however, are the Yamaboko processions on July 17 (Saki Matsuri, or the first procession) and July 24 (Ato Matsuri, or the second procession). On these two days, the streets of central Kyoto come alive with majestic floats, live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Photo: Pia Corporation The enormous Yamaboko floats are a major reason why the Gion Festival is so beloved. Some reach up to 25 metres in height and weigh as much as 12 tonnes, yet they are still pulled by hand. Lavishly decorated with tapestries and embroidery, the floats are often referred to as moving art museums. Saki Matsuri is the larger of the two processions, featuring 23 floats compared to 11 in Ato Matsuri. While the processions are free, public events, those wishing to enjoy the spectacle in comfort can book paid seats at a prime viewing spot. Photo: Kyoto City Tourism Association July 17 procession The first and grandest procession begins at the Shijo-Karasuma intersection. The paid viewing area on Oike Street offers regular seats starting at ¥6,000.  If you want to listen to a live commentary in English, you’ll have to get the Special Learning Seats. These will set you back ¥14,500 for the front row, or ¥12,500 for the subsequent

日本の夏の風物詩といえば花火。しかし近年は猛暑や湿気の影響で、真夏の花火大会に足を運ぶのもひと苦労だ。その点、比較的過ごしやすい気候の6月初旬に開催されるのはうれしい。 6月最初の週末には、3つの花火イベントが立て続けに実施される。2026年6月6日（土）には大阪の異なるエリアで2つのイベントが同時開催されるため、どちらに行くか悩んでしまいそうだ。また、4月に延期となっていた「JAPAN FIREWORKS EXPO 2026 in Osaka – Nishikinohama」も、7日（日）に行われる。 チケットは既に売れ始めているため、気になるイベントは早めのチェックしてほしい。 1. りんくう花火2026（6日） Photo: Rinku Fireworks Festival 「りんくう公園」の「マーブルビーチ」で開催される「りんくう花火2026」が、今年で10回目を迎える。約40分間にわたり、音楽とシンクロした演出で7000発の花火を打ち上げ。花火は19時30分からスタートするが、会場は16時からオープンするため、早めに訪れて場所取りをしたり、キッチンカーや屋台グルメを楽しんだりできる。 チケットは子どもが500円、大人は3,000円（以下、全て税込み）から販売中だ。 2. OSAKA BAY SKYLUMINA FIREWORKS & DRONES（6日） Photo: Osaka Bay Skylumina 大阪湾に浮かぶ人工島「舞洲スポーツアイランド空の広場」で開催予定の「OSAKA BAY SKYLUMINA FIREWORKS & DRONES」は、次世代型をテーマにした花火イベント。伝統的な花火と最先端ドローン演出を融合させたショーが展開される。当日は、日本を代表するドローンオペレーター「REDCLIFF」が2000機のドローンを飛ばし、夜空に幻想的なフォーメーションを描き出す。 また、花火は日本を代表する3つの有名な花火会社によって制作され、その中には1899年に創業し127年の歴史を持つ長野の名門「伊那火工堀内煙火店」も含まれる。音楽に合わせ、100分の1秒単位でシンクロする1万発の花火が打ち上げられる予定だ。さらに、直径約500メートルにも及ぶ大輪を描く8号玉も登場する。 チケットは子どもが6,600円、大人は8,800円から販売している。 3. JAPAN FIREWORKS EXPO 2026 in Osaka – Nishikinohama（7日） Photo: Japan Fireworks Expo 4月に延期となっていた「JAPAN FIREWORKS EXPO 2026 in Osaka – Nishikinohama」が、「2025年日本国際博覧会」（以降、関西・大阪万博）を彩った花火演出を再現する形で行われる。主催者によると、前回以上のスケールになる可能性もあるという。 演出を担当するのは、関西・大阪万博開幕日の花火を手がけた「Wakino Art Factory」。19時30分から20時30分までの約1時間にわたり、壮大な花火ショーを繰り広げるほか、「にし阿波の花火」でファイナリストに選ばれた「岸火工品製造所」による特別演出も予定されている。さらに、関西・大阪万博に関連した楽曲とシンクロする花火演出に加え、直径330メートル以上に広がる10号玉も打ち上げる。 当日は「二色の浜海水浴場」周辺に屋台やバーベキューエリア、各種アクティビティも登場。会場は12時からオープンするため、早めに訪れてイ

Studio Ghibli is a cultural phenomenon, with its heartfelt, beautifully crafted anime amassing legions of fans around the world. In recent years, the Ghibli Universe has leapt off the screen into tangible experiences, much to the delight of fans. There’s the sprawling Ghibli Park in Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park. At the same time, Japan has seen several travelling exhibitions offering deep dives into the studio's creative process and notable themes in the Ghibli Universe, as well as interactive ways for fans to engage with their favourite anime. The good news is, there are two brand new Ghibli exhibitions coming to Osaka and Kyoto in the second half of the year. The Ghibli Park Exhibition in Osaka will bring some of the Aichi park’s most iconic attractions to the city. The Kyoto show, on the other hand, will be more contemplative in nature, as it explores the connection between Hayao Miyazaki’s 'The Boy and the Heron' and the philosophy of Zen. Tickets for Osaka are now available online. Photo: Ghibli ParkA 'Porco Rosso' set piece from a previous Ghibli exhibition Ghibli Park Exhibition, Osaka July 18–September 26 A continuation of the hit ‘Ghibli Park and Ghibli Exhibition’ which toured ten venues across Japan, the new ‘Ghibli Park Exhibition’ will highlight the iconic park’s current state. This, too, will be a travelling show, kicking off in Osaka before moving to other cities in the country. Ghibli Park Exhibition will be, for most parts, interactive and experientia

Shinkansen is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel across Japan – and it’s even more memorable when you catch one of its special themed trains. Among the most popular is the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, which runs along the Sanyo Shinkansen line connecting Shin-Osaka and Hakata in Fukuoka, Kyushu. The route serves western Japan’s major destinations including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama and Hiroshima. Launched in June 2018, this charming bullet train is beloved for its cute design bursting with colours, motifs and characters inspired by the global Japanese icon. Its eye-catching pink exterior features Hello Kitty’s signature bow and ribbon, and the interior is even more adorable. Photo: ©1976, 2020 Sanrio, Co. Ltd, Approval No. L613133Car 1 of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen Car 1 serves as a display area and gift shop offering exclusive Hello Kitty merchandise, while Car 2, the ‘Kawaii! Room’, is fully decked out in Hello Kitty designs, from the walls and ceiling to the seats. There’s even a dedicated photo spot where you can take pictures with a one-of-a-kind Hello Kitty train conductor. Photo: ©1976, 2020 Sanrio, Co. Ltd, Approval No. L613133Car 2 of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen Sadly, after eight years of service, the Hello Kitty Shinkansen will cease operations on Sunday May 17 2026. To celebrate its farewell, train operator JR West has rolled out a campaign to mark this momentous event. © 2026 Sanrio Co., Ltd. Approval No. L664814 For the final send-off,

You can eat well for lunch and not break the bank at Time Out Market Osaka, the curated food and culture hub at Grand Green Osaka in bustling Umeda. With the recent introduction of new restaurants including ramen-and-sake joint Tenmei and British comfort food specialist Furai Guys, the market now serves up a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy your midday cravings. Here’s what you can enjoy for lunch without spending more than ¥1,500 in one of Osaka’s most exciting districts. Photo: Time Out Market OsakaGinger beef stir-fry set meal at Nikutoieba Matsuda If you’re looking for Japanese cuisine A collaboration between notable noodle specialist Jinrui Mina Menrui and sake sommelier Keita Akaboshi, Tenmei’s ramen lunch is priced from just ¥890. Moreover, with any shoyu ramen order, you’ll get to enjoy side dishes including pork rice bowls and gyoza at a ¥50 discount each. Over at Nikutoieba Matsuda, the hearty ginger beef stir-fry set meal, complete with salad and miso soup, is available at only ¥1,190 (or ¥1,500 for a larger portion). Udon lovers, head to Passion Udon Sanshu for satisfying bowls of the thick, chewy wheat noodles. From just ¥1,000, you’ll get to choose an udon bowl complete with seasoned rice and green tea. Spend a bit more, from ¥1,100, and your udon will be served with freshly fried tempura. The restaurant’s signature curry udon, made with a 20-spice roux on a rich Kansai-style dashi base, will only set you back ¥1,400, and it even comes with rice and a small

Summer is fireworks season in Japan. However, with the rising temperatures in recent years, heading out into the oppressive heat and humidity can be uncomfortable, to say the least. Perhaps it’s a good thing that Osaka is kicking off the 2026 summer fireworks season early, while the weather is still pleasant. The thing is, there isn't just one, but three fireworks events happening back-to-back in the first weekend of June alone. As two of them take place concurrently on opposite ends of Osaka on Saturday June 6, you’ll have to pick a side. Meanwhile, the postponed Japan Fireworks Expo 2026 is set to make up for its April cancellation with a jaw-dropping show on Sunday June 7. Read on for the deets on each fireworks event and make your choice quickly, as tickets are selling fast. Photo: Rinku Fireworks Festival Rinku Fireworks Festival, June 6 Held at Rinku Park’s Marble Beach, Rinku Fireworks Festival returns for its 10th edition this year. The 40-minute display will feature 7,000 fireworks synchronised to music.  While the fireworks begin at 7.30pm, the festival grounds are open from 4pm, giving you plenty of time to stake out a good spot and enjoy the spread that the festival food trucks and booths have to offer. Tickets from ¥3,000. More details here. Photo: Osaka Bay Skylumina Osaka Bay Skylumina Fireworks & Drones, June 6 Held at the Sky Plaza on the artificial island of Maishima in Osaka Bay, Skylumina bills itself as a ‘next-generation’ fireworks show that combines

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