If you’re scared of heights – this hike isn’t for you.
Hoshida Park, known as the ‘Forest of Osaka’, is home to the largest suspension bridge in Japan at a length of 280 meters and a height of 50 meters. The bridge, Hoshi no Buranko, is locally known as the Star Swing Bridge, stemming from the belief that standing on the bridge at night feels like floating among the stars. Despite its name, unfortunately you cannot walk across the bridge at night; it currently closes at 1630hrs.
This hike takes you through a well-signposted forest route, leading you across the bridge, before making your way back down. The route to the bridge and back spans around 8km and is suitable for beginners. To get to the start of the hike take the Keihan Main Line from Kyobashi to Hirakatashi Station. From Hirakatashi Station, take the Katano Line to Kisaichi Station (the end of the line). Follow the trail around the scenic Amano River which should be on your left-hand side on your way up. It will take around 1-hour to get to the bridge from the start of your hike, depending on your pace.
The longest wooden footbridge in Japan! 📍 Hike to Hoshi no Buranko 🌉✨ Looking for a perfect half-day adventure near Osaka? 🏞️ Start your hike from Kisaichi Station 🚉 and immerse yourself in forests, peaceful trails, and breathtaking views. 🌳🌲 👟 Trail Details: 📏 ~2.5 km one way 🌿 Easy to moderate difficulty 🕒 Takes about 2-3 hours round trip The highlight? Hoshi no Buranko—a massive suspension bridge that makes you feel like you’re walking among the stars! ✨ The view from up there is absolutely incredible, with a canopy of greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. 😍 🍙 Pro Tip: Pack a snack or bento to enjoy at the picnic area nearby—it’s the perfect way to recharge before heading back! 🌅 End your adventure with a serene walk back to Kisaichi Station as the sun sets over the Kansai wilderness. 📸 Tag your hiking buddy and save this post for your next outdoor escape! 🌟 #HikingJapan#Osaka#Japan#HoshiNoBuranko#KansaiAdventures#OsakaHikes#NatureLovers
Akame 48 Waterfalls Trail is a well-known trail for deep mountain valleys and waterfalls of various sizes, widths, plunges and waterflows. The hike will take you into the Murō-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park, past multiple stunning waterfalls. The 48 waterfalls are a collective name for a string of waterfalls flowing through Akame-cho, Nabari, Mie.
This location is where the first Ninjas used to train and perfect their art form. Go to the home of the Ninja, viewing the history of ninjas from stalls, shops and even restaurants. Enter a giant salamander museum, view these impressive creatures which are native to this area.
There are different routes that you can take, which vary in their difficulty. The three route options are:
Route 1 – Short and easy course, 20-minutes (one-way). This route is mostly paved and suitable for casual hikers. It will take you past three out of the five best waterfalls, Fudo Falls, Senju Falls and Nunobiki Falls. Be sure to not miss the deep valley at the start of the route which is said to date back over 15-million years; an unfathomable amount of time.
Route 2 – Moderate course, 90-minutes (one-way). This route is paved and includes some steep staircase sections, which can be slippy if it’s been raining. This route will ensure that you experience all five of the best waterfalls, adding Ninai Falls and Biwa Falls to your route.
Route 3 – Advanced course, 170-minutes (one-way) with a 584m elevation gain. This route takes you past the same waterfalls as route 1, before deviating onto the advanced course toward Mt. Nagasaka. The trail is steep but includes plenty of rest spots, making it manageable for intermediate hikers. To fully enjoy the experience, plan for a whole day.
To get the starting point of all three routes, take the Kintetsu-Osaka Line from Tsuruhashi Station (accessible via the Osaka Loop Line) to Akameguchi Station, this takes around 1hr 05mins. From Akameguchi Station, catch a bus from the bus station to Akamedaki.
The bus takes just 10-minutes on the Akame Line. Be sure to note the time of the last bus back from the falls and give yourself plenty of time to head back. From Akamedaki, follow the road around to the start of the hike.
All paths are well-signposted from the bus stop. Follow the route uphill and pass through the Salamander aquarium where you pay a small fee of 1,000 yen before starting your hike.
🌿✨ Explore the breathtaking beauty of Akame 48 Waterfalls! 🌊🍃 Just a short trip from Osaka, this serene hike offers cascading falls, lush green forests, and magical vibes! 🌟 Whether you’re spotting salamanders 🦎, soaking in the peaceful sounds of nature 🎶, or dressing up as a ninja 🥷, this spot is a must-visit! 💧🏞️ ⏰ Duration: 2–3 hours round trip (easy-moderate hike) 🎒 What to bring: Comfy shoes, a water bottle, and your sense of adventure! 💬 Tag someone who’d love this hike! 🥾💚 #Akame48Waterfalls#OsakaDayTrips#HikingVibes#NatureLovers#JapanTravel#Osaka#Travel#Daytrip
Tsurumi-Ryokuchi Park is located on the lime green subway route and can be easily accessed from near Osaka Castle (Morinomiya station). The park was home to the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Expo, where different countries showcase flowers and landscaped areas. This is where the park gets its title as the ‘Osaka Expo ‘90 Commemorative Park’.
Hire a scooter for the day
Upon entering the park I noticed that you can hire a bike or hire some futuristic looking e-scooters and mobility scooters which I discovered were called Tsuru Mobi. To ride the Tsurumobi, all passengers must register as members and make a reservation in advance, so bear this in mind before your trip. As this was my first time visiting, I decided to walk to make sure I didn’t wizz past something worth exploring more. I checked the park map before making my way around. The map of the park looked big, and I was excited to explore it.
Shortly after I entered, I spotted a tower which I now know is called the Tower of Life! Osaka city government closed the tower more than 10 years ago, due to declining tourist numbers, and had initially planned to demolish it. However, calls have emerged for the tower to be used to boost momentum for the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025. City officials say plans to topple the structure will go ahead without a feasible proposal to preserve it. I took a lot of photos of it, hoping that it will remain but knowing it could be demolished, and knew it would be a good point of reference during my park adventures.
Tour the old-expo site and take a photo next to a windmill
After entering the park, if you head right, you will enter the site of the 1990s flower expo and will be met with displays from all around the world. The most iconic is the dutch-style windmill which is surrounded by impeccable rows of flowers all year round. The flowers vary from tulips in spring, to sunflowers in august and more prime photo opportunities throughout the year. The displays from all around the world have been restored recently, with highlights including a waterfall from Canada, and temples from China and South Korea.
Throughout the park, I noticed people sitting beneath mushroom-like shelters, and thought they looked really unique and cool in their design. Here is a photo!
Mushroom Design Seating Areas
Spot wildlife near the pond
The large pond ‘Oike Pond’ in the centre of the park had a lot of birds flapping around, and herons perched quietly on rocks within the water. The backdrop of the pond included temples and a dutch-style windmill in the distance.
On my way around, I found that the park has something for everyone, this includes a Horse Racing Track, a Forest Adventure filled with playgrounds for children, a BBQ and Camping area for those who want to camp in the park! If you wish to do this, remember to book in advance and bring your own tent.
The abundance of wildlife, flowers and trees in the park was what I noticed most. The Sakura (blossom) trees were blooming in mid-March. A lovely surprise as they’re not forecast in most areas until April. Locals were naturally gathered to take photos of this fleeting moment. I was suprised to discover that the park is also home to a large indoor botanical garden with over 15,000 plants! The park is called Sakuya Konohana Kan, which costs just ¥500 to enter.
Sakura Blossom Trees
My walk around the park lasted around 3 hours, so I can see why you can rent bikes and scooters near the entrance! At the end of my walk, i was quite hungry, so I stopped at the restaurant near Oike Pond. The restaurant is ideally named ‘Botanical House’ and has a lovely terraced dining area near the water. It is one of the best locations for a romantic dinner that I’ve found in Osaka so far. A perfect scene to end the day before catching the train or if you want further time to relax, Tsurumi Onsen Suishun is a public bath house and gym located directly opposite the train station.
View from Botanical House Restaurant
So, is Tsrumi Park worth visiting? Yes, absolutely, i’d say that Tsrumi Park is arguably the best park to visit in Osaka when it comes to the variety of activities, plants and nature. While the park can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to visit Tsrumi Park is in Spring (April-June) to see the flowers in bloom or toward Autumn (September-November).
A trip to the Osaka History Museum is a great thing to do on a rainy day in Osaka. It has something for all of the family alongside panoramic views on each level. The entrance fee is just ¥600 per person and the exhibits have english written alongside them as well as Japanese – very considerate for tourists!
To reach the Osaka History Museum, I recommend taking a short walk from Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The route is straightforward and gives you a glimpse of Osaka’s vibrant cityscape before you step into its rich history. Along the way, you might pass small cafes and convenience stores—ideal for a quick refreshment before starting your visit.
The museum itself is designed as a journey through time, starting at the top and working your way down floor by floor. This layout makes it easy to immerse yourself in Osaka’s evolving story, and it’s one of the reasons so many visitors praise the experience. A common question I see online is, “How much time should I spend here?” I’d recommend at least two to three hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and observation deck.
What’s on Each Floor?
10th Floor: Osaka Castle View and Ancient Osaka Your journey begins on the 10th floor, where the observation deck offers stunning views of Osaka Castle and the city skyline. It’s a good spot for photos, especially on clear days. This floor also dives into Osaka’s early history, featuring artifacts and reconstructions from the Naniwa Palace, a 7th-century imperial residence. Many visitors ask, “Are the exhibits interactive?” The answer here is yes—you can walk through models and dioramas that recreate the grandeur of the palace and its role in Osaka’s early political and cultural life. Kids can also enjoy getting hands on in the archeology section.
9th Floor: Osaka as a Merchant Hub Moving down to the 9th floor, you’ll explore the Edo period, when Osaka flourished as a center of trade and commerce. The exhibits include a detailed recreation of a bustling 17th-century merchant district, complete with miniature models and vibrant storytelling. This floor gives an excellent sense of how Osaka earned its nickname, “The Kitchen of Japan.” For those wondering, “Is there English signage?” rest assured that most displays have English translations, so you won’t miss out on the details.
8th Floor: Modernisation and the Meiji Era The 8th floor focuses on Osaka’s transformation during the Meiji Restoration and early modern period. You’ll find exhibits that highlight the city’s industrial growth, urbanisation, and cultural shifts. There are fascinating photos and artifacts from this era, showing how traditional lifestyles blended with new influences.
7th Floor: Post-War Osaka and Beyond The final exhibit floor covers Osaka’s post-war recovery and rapid development into the metropolis it is today. This section is particularly engaging for history buffs, as it provides insight into Osaka’s resilience and how it became a center of innovation. It also touches on the city’s cultural contributions, including the rise of iconic food and entertainment industries.
Tips for Visiting
Plan ahead: Start your day early and aim to visit in the morning when it’s less crowded. This way, you can take your time exploring without rushing.
Combine with Osaka Castle: as it is SO close by, I suggest pairing your visit to the museum with Osaka Castle, which is just a short walk away.
Is It Worth Visiting?
If you’re curious about whether the Osaka History Museum is worth your time, the answer is yes. A question I often came across online was, “Is it worth visiting if you’re short on time?” Even if you only have an hour or two, the top floors with their immersive exhibits and castle views make the visit worthwhile. For families, the interactive displays are a hit with kids, while history lovers will appreciate the depth of the artifacts and storytelling.
By the end of my visit, I felt I had gained a deeper understanding of Osaka’s past, its identity as a city of resilience, innovation, and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, make sure this museum is on your itinerary—it’s a journey through time you won’t want to miss.
Hiroshima today is a symbol of hope and resilience. It has become a global advocate for peace and a place of reflection and learning. When I visited Hiroshima with my husband, we spent a couple of days exploring its history and beauty, including a trip to the stunning Miyajima Island nearby. This two-day itinerary offers a balance between the city’s poignant history and the natural charm of its surroundings.
Day 1: Exploring Hiroshima’s History
Morning Catch the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima. The fastest train, the Nozomi, costs around ¥10,570 (£58) one way and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to take the slightly slower Hikari or Sakura trains, as the Nozomi is not covered.
Once in Hiroshima, head straight to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a place of reflection and remembrance. Begin at the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a sobering and detailed account of the events of 6th August 1945. Then take a quiet walk to reflect through the park and visit key landmarks, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims.
Finally, stop at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, a tranquil space dedicated to honouring those who lost their lives.
Lunch By midday, recharge with a plate of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake layered with noodles, seafood, and vegetables. Two popular spots near the park are Okonomimura and Nagata-ya. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8) per person and make sure to bring cash with you as some locations don’t accept card payments.
Afternoon After lunch, make your way to Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed samurai stronghold surrounded by a peaceful moat and park. Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city and learn about Hiroshima’s history before the war.
Next, stroll to Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with scenic ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal flowers. This is an ideal spot to relax and reflect after a morning of learning about the city’s past. Entry is just ¥260 (£1.50).
Evening End your day with dinner in downtown Hiroshima. Try the region’s famous oysters at a local izakaya, or explore the lively Hondori Shopping Arcade for a mix of restaurants and boutiques. If oysters aren’t your thing, Kanayama Base has a cosy atmosphere, welcoming staff and delicious food (& beer!). For a quieter evening, take a walk along Peace Boulevard, where the riverside atmosphere is particularly charming.
Stay overnight near Hiroshima Station for easy access to the next day’s adventure. We opted for En Hotel which was affordable at £48 a night, close to the station and had all we needed!
Day 2: Exploring Miyajima Island
Spend your second day exploring the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Miyajima Island. The Global Peace Summit is often held here.
Morning Set off early by taking the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (30 minutes, ¥420/£2.30 one way), followed by a short 10-minute ferry ride to Miyajima. The ferry is included in the Japan Rail Pass, or costs ¥180 (£1) each way without it.
As you approach the island, you’ll see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most famous views. Spend your morning wandering through the shrine, exploring its beautiful wooden structures and marvelling at the torii gate from various vantage points. At low tide, you can even walk out to the base of the gate for a closer look.
Wild Deer: Throughout the island, you’ll encounter Miyajima’s free-roaming deer, considered sacred in Shinto belief. These friendly creatures will happily approach you for snacks, so keep an eye on your belongings!
Fog on approach to Miyajima (view from Ferry)A wild deer on the island
Lunch Sample Miyajima’s street food, including grilled oysters, freshly skewered fish, and momiji manju, a sweet treat shaped like a maple leaf. Omotesando Shopping Street is a great spot for a relaxed lunch and souvenir shopping. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8).
Afternoon Adventure awaits on Mount Misen, the island’s highest peak. You can hike up (around 90 minutes each way) or take the Miyajima Ropeway (round trip ¥2,200/£12) for spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea. At the summit, visit the Reikado Hall, where the “eternal flame” has been burning for over 1,200 years, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas.
After descending, spend a little more time exploring the island’s temples, shops, or quiet coastal paths before returning to the mainland.
Evening Head back to Hiroshima by ferry and train, then catch the Shinkansen back to Osaka. Aim to leave Hiroshima by 6:00 PM to arrive in Osaka by 7:30 PM.
This two-day itinerary offers a thoughtful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Hiroshima’s resilience and Miyajima’s timeless charm. I hope that you find it useful and that it inspires you to go on your trip!
Morinomiya is known as one of the nicest areas in Osaka. The JR Osaka Loop Line and Osaka Metro Chuo Line both have stops at Morinomiya Station, making it convenient to explore from anywhere in the city. Having lived in Morinomiya myself, here are some of the best things to do within the immediate area.
Visit Osaka Castle
At the heart of Morinomiya stands the iconic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle played a pivotal role in Japan’s history. Today, visitors can explore the museum inside, which offers fascinating insights into the castle’s past. You can also dine like a king or queen near the castle at the Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace, which provides an ideal summer BBQ style setting with views of the castle.
Surrounding the castle is Osaka Castle Park, a beautiful green space that changes with the seasons. In spring, it becomes a prime cherry blossom viewing spot, while in autumn, the golden leaves create a picturesque landscape. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a peaceful picnic. You can also take a relaxing boat ride along the river surrounding the castle to rest your legs.
Osaka History Museum
A trip to the Osaka History Museum is a great thing to do on a rainy day in Osaka. It has something for all of the family alongside panoramic views on each level. The entrance fee is just ¥600 per person and the exhibits have english written alongside them as well as Japanese – very considerate for tourists!
To reach the Osaka History Museum, I recommend taking a short walk from Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The route is straightforward and gives you a glimpse of Osaka’s vibrant cityscape before you step into its rich history. Along the way, you might pass small cafes and convenience stores—ideal for a quick refreshment before starting your visit.
I provide more information on the museum and whats included inside in a separate blog, check it out here.
Naniwa Palace Ruins Park
If you’ve been to the Osaka History Museum you will know all about this site. This historic park spreads over the area of Hoenzaka in Chuo Ward, Osaka City. In 1961, an excavation by Dr. Yamane Tokutaro, a professor at Osaka City University, confirmed the remains of two Naniwa Palace palaces, one from the Asuka period to the Nara period. Currently, the central area of the palace, covering an area of about 90,000 square meters, has been designated as a national historic site, and is being developed as a historic park.
The historic site is marked in two ways: the later Naniwa Palace, built from 726, is marked on a level above ground level with a stone foundation; the earlier Naniwa Palace, built from 650, is marked on a level below ground level with red tiles, red granite pillars, and a camellia hedge. Also, in the north central part of the park is the restored Daigokuden, which is said to have been used by the Emperor when holding official national ceremonies, from which Osaka Castle can be viewed.
Discover Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine
For a taste of traditional Japan, visit Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Osaka, dating back to 12 BCE. This shrine is believed to bring good fortune, especially in love and relationships.
At the shrine, a curved jewel is the dominant motif that the head priest has developed a kind of magatama philosophy with. In addition to describing the four souls possessed by all people，which must be kept in balance, he elaborates a theory of social and marital harmony. If there is a good fit between two magatama in a yin-yang pattern, they form a circle and can roll smoothly. In similar fashion, when two people’s souls fit in this way they can work well together to progress in the world. A special comma-shaped amulet helps keep these spirits in balance.
E-Mobility Metro Town (LIMITED TIME ONLY)
For transport enthusiasts, and those looking for something fun to do with kids in Osaka, the recently opened E-Mobility Metro Town provides an interesting activitiy. You may have seen posters for this across Osaka on subways and be wondering what it is!
e METRO MOBILITY TOWN is a temporary experiential theme park running from January to October 2025. Designed by Osaka Metro, it offers futuristic and interactive attractions centered on urban living and transportation.
Highlights include the “Future Experience Area,” featuring projection mapping, virtual time-space tours, and activities like designing vehicles in the “Kids Train.” Visitors can ride EV and autonomous buses, explore the “Future Station” metaverse, and enjoy the EV Kart Circuit. Sustainable concepts are showcased with repurposed subway cars and flying car displays, providing a glimpse into transportation’s future.
Ticket prices vary by purchase method:
e METRO App: Adults ¥1,320–¥1,980, children ¥660–¥990
On-site: Adults ¥1,600–¥2,200, children ¥800–¥1,100.
Children under 6 enter free (limit 2 per adult). Group discounts are available. Additional fees apply for some attractions, like EV Karts, which cost ¥2,000–¥4,000 depending on size. You can buy your tickets here.
Dining in Morinomiya
After immersing yourself in the historical and natural beauty of the area, Morinomiya offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes. The relaxed Morinomiya Q’s Mall base is located just over the road from the park and includes a food-hall offering a variety of affordable options for food. The mall contains several second-hand vintage, shops, a climbing wall, gym, and a running track on the roof! so it really caters to everyone. Beyond the mall, here are some notable dining establishments in the area:
Gyoza no Ohsho Morinomiya
A popular chain specializing in gyoza (Japanese dumplings) and a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes, known for its quick service and affordable prices.
Warabimochi Kadofuji Morinomiya
A dessert shop renowned for its warabimochi, a traditional Japanese confection made from bracken starch and covered in sweet toppings.
Anbai Morinomiya
A cozy eatery offering a range of Japanese comfort foods, including set meals and seasonal specialties.
Suikoden Morinomiya
An izakaya-style restaurant serving a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing over drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
Morinomiya Wa Cafe Kitajima
A café blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern touches, offering a selection of teas, desserts, and light meals.
That’s Pizza!
A local pizzeria (and personal favourite of mine) known for its handcrafted pizzas with a Japanese twist, providing a unique dining experience.
If you’re looking for a stylish and creative side of Osaka, Orange Street (オレンジストリート, Orenji Dōri) is a must-visit. Officially known as Tachibana-dori, this trendy shopping street in the Minami district is a hub for fashion, design, and culture. Unlike the bustling neon lights of Dotonbori or the historic charm of Osaka Castle, Orange Street offers a more refined, laid-back experience—perfect for those who appreciate boutique shopping, artisanal cafés, and cutting-edge design.
A Brief History of Orange Street
Orange Street has a history dating back over 150 years. Originally, the area was a centre for furniture and home décor, with craftsmen and merchants selling high-quality goods. Over time, it evolved into a stylish destination, attracting fashion-forward brands, independent designers, and trendy cafés. While some furniture shops still remain, today’s Orange Street is better known as a creative district, blending Osaka’s traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
What to Expect on Orange Street
1. Fashion & Boutique Shopping
Unlike the mainstream shops of Shinsaibashi, Orange Street is home to independent boutiques, local designers, and vintage stores. Here, you can find:
• Japanese streetwear brands like Porter, Journal Standard, and Neighbourhood.
• Concept stores that mix fashion, art, and home décor.
If you love unique and carefully curated clothing, Orange Street is a paradise.
2. Stylish Cafés & Restaurants
No visit to Orange Street is complete without stopping at one of its many Instagram-worthy cafés. Some popular spots include:
• Brooklyn Roasting Company – A favourite for coffee lovers, offering high-quality, sustainable brews in a cool, industrial-style setting.
• Granknot Coffee – A cosy, minimalist café with expertly crafted lattes.
• Café No. – Famous for its sleek, monochrome aesthetic and beautifully presented drinks.
OHOTORO FLAGSHIP STORE / CAFE HTR is located here and has amazing coffee & a store upstairs. I went there yesterday and the atmosphere was incredibly relaxing.
Whether you’re in the mood for speciality coffee, matcha treats, or a casual brunch, Orange Street has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
3. Art & Design Spaces
With its roots in furniture and craftsmanship, Orange Street remains a hotspot for interior design and contemporary art. You’ll find:
• Modern furniture shops that blend Japanese aesthetics with Scandinavian minimalism.
• Local art galleries showcasing works by up-and-coming Osaka artists.
• Creative studios where designers and makers experiment with new ideas.
If you appreciate well-crafted design and artistic innovation, you’ll love wandering through this part of the city.
How to Get to Orange Street
Orange Street is located in the Minami (South) district of Osaka, between Namba and Shinsaibashi. The easiest way to get there is:
• By train: Take the Yotsubashi Line to Yotsubashi Station (Exit 6) or the Midosuji Line to Shinsaibashi Station (Exit 7). Both are about a 5-minute walk away.
• On foot: If you’re already in the Namba or Shinsaibashi area, it’s a short and pleasant stroll.
Final Thoughts
Orange Street is the perfect place to experience Osaka’s modern creativity and stylish urban culture. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a coffee lover, or an art and design aficionado, this trendy district has something to offer. It’s a great contrast to the city’s more famous attractions and provides a glimpse into Osaka’s youthful, artistic, and stylish side.
Next time you visit Osaka, be sure to explore Orange Street—you might just discover your new favourite boutique or café!
Nestled in the town of Takarazuka, just outside Osaka, Nakayama-dera Temple is an enchanting destination steeped in history and natural beauty. Among its many highlights is the striking blue pagoda, a rare architectural gem that captivates visitors with its vibrant color and serene surroundings.
Unlike the traditional red pagodas commonly seen across Japan, this four-tiered structure is painted in a vibrant shade of blue, symbolising tranquility and enlightenment. The pagoda is nestled against a backdrop of lush greenery, which only enhances its striking appearance.
The Temple’s Historical Significance
Nakayama-dera is one of the 33 temples on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist deity of mercy. Founded in the 6th century, the temple is a place of deep spiritual resonance and a popular site for prayers, particularly for safe childbirth. The grounds have beautiful gardens, ancient stone lanterns, and a variety of Buddhist statues (over 700 in one of the shrines!) but the blue pagoda stands out as a truly unique attraction.
Getting to the Blue Pagoda
Getting to the Blue Pagoda itself is easily accessible from Nakayama Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line. The station is just a 25-minute ride from Osaka’s city center, making it a convenient escape from the urban bustle. The distance from the station to the pagoda is then short, and doesn’t require much physical effort to reach, taking around 15-minutes to walk.
The hike!
The hike begins at the base of Nakayama-dera Temple (to the left of the blue pagoda). After about 45 minutes to an hour of hiking along the path, you’ll reach awe-inspiring views across Osaka to rewards your efforts.
The view halfway along the hike
As you ascend, the path meanders through a picturesque landscape of tall cedar trees and gentle streams. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all levels, though sturdy footwear is recommended due to occasional steep sections. Along the way, you’ll encounter small shrines and Jizo statues, offering opportunities to pause and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Visitors often remark on the profound sense of peace they feel here. The location is relatively secluded, ensuring that the site remains uncrowded, even during peak travel seasons. This makes it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or simply enjoying the surrounding beauty.
Seasonal Highlights
The hike is a year-round delight, but each season brings its own charm. In spring, cherry blossoms blanket the temple grounds in soft pink hues. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn transforms the landscape with fiery red and orange foliage. Even winter has its appeal, as the pagoda looks particularly enchanting against a dusting of snow.
Tips for Your Visit
Time Your Hike: Morning is the best time to start, as the trail is cooler and less crowded.
Bring Essentials: Pack water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Respect the Space: Nakayama-dera is an active temple, so be mindful of worshippers and maintain a respectful demeanor.
Explore the Area: After your hike, take time to explore the rest of Nakayama-dera or enjoy local delicacies in the nearby town of Takarazuka.
Conclusion
Hiking around, and seeing the blue pagoda, in Nakayama-dera is an opportunity to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage and the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, this serene escape near Osaka offers a perfect blend of adventure and mindfulness. Make it a part of your next trip, and let the vibrant blue pagoda leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.
I went on the hike with a group that I found via the ‘meetup’ app! A photo of my group is below. I’ve also recorded a short youtube video for you to see some of the grounds near the temple:
Visit Osaka 