Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park in Osaka is a spacious, flower-filled escape that blooms with color during cherry blossom season. Originally the site of the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Exposition (Expo ’90), the park is home to about 1,100 cherry trees across 10 different varieties, blooming early March to early April. Its wide-open spaces, scenic pond, and cultural gardens make it a tranquil yet impressive hanami destination away from Osaka’s busiest spots.

Why Visit Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

• Extended Blooming Season: With early-blooming varieties like Kawazu and Okame Sakura and late bloomers like Somei Yoshino and Yoko Sakura, the park offers hanami opportunities from late February through early April.
• Scenic Viewing Points: Enjoy reflections of sakura on Oike Pond, panoramic views from the Mountain Area, and the relaxing atmosphere of the barbecue grounds.
• Less Crowded Experience: Compared to central Osaka parks, Tsurumi Ryokuchi tends to be more relaxed, offering a peaceful hanami escape.
• Cultural and Botanical Attractions: The Sakuya Konohana Kan greenhouse and Japanese garden add extra charm and learning opportunities to your visit.

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Cherry Blossoms

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park features approximately 1,100 cherry trees in about 10 varieties scattered across its vast grounds. The park’s cherry blossom season begins as early as late February with the vibrant pink Kawazu Sakura, followed closely by Okame Sakura, often seen around the northwest of the main pond. The main event comes in late March with the blooming of Somei Yoshino, which makes up the majority of the park’s trees. These are especially stunning around the west and northeast sides of Oike Pond and near the Midoribashi entrance.

In early April, visitors can enjoy Yoko Sakura near the southern side of the park golf course. The Mountain Area offers a scenic overlook of cherry blossoms, while the barbecue area allows for casual hanami parties with a view (reservations required).

Recommended Viewing Spots

• Oike Pond (West and Northeast sides): Known for stunning reflections of sakura on the water.
• Mountain Area: Provides elevated views across the park’s blooming landscape.
• Barbecue Grounds: A rare spot where visitors can enjoy grilled meals alongside cherry blossoms.

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Facilities & Amenities

The park offers a wide range of facilities for visitors. These include reservable barbecue areas, public restrooms, open picnic spaces, and sports facilities like tennis courts and a golf course. The Sakuya Konohana Kan, a botanical garden, is home to exotic plants and indoor floral displays. The Japanese garden and teahouses add a layer of traditional ambiance. Accessibility is well-considered, with paved paths throughout the park.

Dining Options

While there are no yatai food stalls during cherry blossom season, the park occasionally hosts seasonal food festivals with kitchen trucks offering local dishes. Otherwise, visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic meals or check out nearby restaurants outside the park. Reservations are required for the barbecue area, which is a popular option for families and groups.

Travel Tips

• Arrive early on weekends if visiting Oike Pond: The west and northeast sides of the pond get especially crowded from midday, so come in the morning for better photo opportunities and space.
• Visit the Mountain Area in late February to catch Kawazu Sakura: This elevated section blooms first and offers panoramic views of the park, best enjoyed on clear mornings.
• Pre-pack meals or visit local shops near Tsurumi Ryokuchi Station: Since no permanent food stalls operate during hanami season, nearby convenience stores and small eateries are your best bet for picnic supplies.
• Reserve the BBQ area at least a week ahead: The barbecue grounds are in high demand during cherry blossom season and can only be used with a prior booking.
• Check the Tsurumi Ryokuchi official website for variety-specific bloom updates: Because different cherry varieties bloom from February to April, the site posts variety-specific information, helpful for timing your visit.

How to Get to Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park

• By Train: Take the Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi Line to Tsurumi Ryokuchi Station. The park entrance is just a short walk away.
• By Car: Located about 5 minutes from the Daito-Tsurumi IC on the Kinki Expressway. Note that parking may be limited during peak cherry blossom days.

Nearby Attractions

• Sakuya Konohana Kan: One of Japan’s largest botanical gardens, featuring global plant exhibits in a large greenhouse within the park.
• Tsurumi Shinryokuchi Park Golf Course: Ideal for a post-picnic round of golf.
• AEON Mall Tsurumi Ryokuchi: A shopping and dining destination for those looking to unwind indoors after hanami.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Osaka Castle Park: One of Osaka’s most famous cherry blossom destinations with over 3,000 trees.
• Kema Sakuranomiya Park: A riverside park lined with about 5,000 cherry trees stretching several kilometers.
• Nagai Park: Known for both its cherry blossoms and its botanical gardens, making it a good alternative in southern Osaka.