Every spring, the Osaka Mint Bureau transforms into one of Japan’s most unique and highly anticipated cherry blossom viewing experiences. With a rich history dating back to 1883, the event known as “Sakura no Torinuke” (Cherry Blossom Passage) invites visitors to stroll a 560-meter-long promenade lined with hundreds of blooming trees. The combination of rare cherry blossom varieties, historical charm, and exclusive access for just one week each year makes this spot an unforgettable hanami destination.

Why Visit Osaka Mint Bureau

• Extensive Sakura Varieties: Over 140 different varieties of cherry trees, many of which are rare and hard to find elsewhere.
• Limited-Time Event: Open to the public for only one week each April, heightening its seasonal allure.
• Historic Atmosphere: Dating back to 1883, the event blends Meiji-era charm with floral beauty.
• Nighttime Illumination: Evening light-ups turn the tunnel of sakura into a glowing spectacle.
• Commemorative Souvenirs: Visitors can purchase limited-edition coin sets as a memento of their visit.

Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossoms

The centerpiece of the event is a 560-meter-long promenade that stretches from the Mint Bureau’s South Gate to the North Gate. Along this path, approximately 340 cherry trees of 140 varieties—including Yae-zakura, Kanzan, Youkihi, and 2025’s featured “Ranran”—form a sweeping floral tunnel over visitors’ heads. Unlike parks dominated by the popular Somei Yoshino, the Mint Bureau focuses on double-flowered and late-blooming types, ensuring a full and fluffy sakura experience.

Key Viewing Highlights

• Cherry Blossom Passage (Sakura no Torinuke): The main event—a floral corridor flanked by sakura of various colors and forms.
• Megane-bashi (Eyeglasses Bridge): A historical stone bridge offering a scenic photo spot.
• Mint Museum Backdrop: The museum’s stately building adds architectural contrast to the natural display.

Sakura no Torinuke 2025: Cherry Blossom Festival & Light-Up Event

The 2025 Sakura no Torinuke is scheduled to run from April 5 to April 11. The cherry blossoms are illuminated after sunset, offering a magical night-time spectacle. Weekday hours are from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM, while weekend hours extend from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Reservations are mandatory for entry and can be made online starting March 17, 2025, at 9:00 AM JST. The event draws 600,000 to 800,000 visitors annually, so early booking is advised.

Osaka Mint Bureau Facilities & Amenities

While the passage is beautifully maintained, the route is one-way to ensure smooth flow. Eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly prohibited within the viewing area. Restrooms are located near the entrance and exit, and the path is wheelchair accessible. A small number of wheelchairs are available for rental.

Dining Options

There are no dining facilities within the Mint Bureau grounds, and eating on the cherry blossom path is not allowed. However, food stalls are commonly set up nearby in Kema Sakuranomiya Park during the festival period, offering local Osaka delicacies like takoyaki and yakisoba. The surrounding Tenmabashi area is packed with casual eateries and cafes for post-hanami meals.

Travel Tips

• Book Early Online: Entry to the Sakura no Torinuke event requires advance reservation, available from March 17, 2025, at 9:00 AM JST via the official website. Dates fill up quickly, especially weekends, so set a reminder.
• Aim for Weekday Mornings: To avoid the heaviest foot traffic, visit on weekday mornings right after gates open (10:00 AM on weekdays). Weekend afternoons are typically the most crowded, with slow-moving queues through the passage.
• Arrive via Temmabashi or Osaka-jō Kitazume Stations: Both stations are a 10–15 minute walk from the Mint Bureau. Trains are frequent and more reliable than driving, as no parking is available at or near the venue.
• Don’t Miss the Light-Up: The cherry blossom illumination starts around sunset and runs until 7:30 PM. For photographers, golden hour and early evening provide stunning lighting.
• Follow the One-Way Route: The sakura path is a single-direction route from South Gate to North Gate. Eating, drinking, smoking, and stopping too long for photos are prohibited to keep visitors moving smoothly.

How to Get to Osaka Mint Bureau

The Osaka Mint Bureau is easily accessible by public transportation:

• Temmabashi Station (Tanimachi Subway Line / Keihan Main Line): 10-15 minute walk north.
• Osakajo-kitazume Station (JR Tozai Line): 15-minute walk.
• Osaka Temmangu Station (JR Tozai Line): 15-minute walk.

From major Osaka hubs:

From Namba: Use Osaka Metro with a transfer at Yodoyabashi or Tanimachiyuchome.

From Osaka Station: Take the metro to Higashi-Umeda, transfer to Tanimachi Line.

Nearby Attractions

• Osaka Museum of Housing and Living: An immersive museum where visitors can explore life-sized recreations of Edo-period Osaka streets.
• Kids Plaza Osaka: A hands-on science and learning museum for children, perfect for family visits.
• Tenjinbashisuji: A lively shopping street near the Mint Bureau, known for being the longest shopping arcade in Japan and a great place to explore local food and culture.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Kema Sakuranomiya Park: Adjacent to the Mint Bureau, it features over 4,000 cherry trees lining the riverbanks.
• Osaka Castle Park: Another iconic hanami spot with around 3,000 cherry trees and castle views.
• Nakanoshima Park: Offers a more tranquil experience with riverside walking paths and cherry trees.