Automn 2024 Japan

7 top places to see in Osaka in automn 2024

It is quirky emotions right there. Osaka in autumn is like a party whose dress code is ‘why don’t you go with the colors of nature? Red, yellow, and orange.’ Though it is mainly known for its energetic fads, tasty street food, and lots of let’s get crazy, they also don’t miss out on enjoying the fall foliage in Osaka, which they probably do, in a very subtle and satisfying way. Even if you are a hawk eyed for raunchy reds or a crowds’ knockabout novice trying to know what the hope is all about, here are the top 7 autumn colors in Osaka in 2024 – with humor added for some lightness in sight.

1. Osaka Castle Park

Ah, Osaka Castle, a Japan icon that seems like it was borrowed straight out of a Samurai film. But when the fall season sets in, the landscapes around the castle are transformed into beauty that will awe you such that you’d think you’re walking through a work of arts. Over 600 trees have been planted around the park and these include the ginkgo and maple trees that create an awesome backdrop with the green and white colored castle. It is a beautiful clock of nature with such great and awesome things and people within and you would amaze,” don’t trees know they look so good?” You are right. They do. Indeed they do.

Pro tip: If you wish to avoid the commotion within the trees and temples, get there on time or if you want a more urban experience which is the buzz, then go ahead. Surely, it could have been “the more the merrier” in pride slogans in Osaka.

2. Minoh Park

Less than an hour from hamburgers temple, sits the stage for the autumn enchantment; Minoh Park. Located here is a magnificent waterfall surrounded by vibrant autumn colors that ensures one has a picture perfect post that requires little effort in terms of captions. The trail up to Minoh Falls is little more than a stroll in the park, but just about enough intensity to justify the snack you’re dreaming about. Flush with images of fried maple leaves dootoo dooto ‘plane!’ Who’d have thought that, well, yes; it is indeed a delicacy here. I ask the question, if you were to consume a leaf, what better way would there be than in fall?

Pro tips: Please don’t stand at the edge of the waterfall and yell out “I am the king of the world.” It’s not as high as you may believe and it’s likely someone will film such brilliance.

3. Nakanoshima Park

Located at the center of Osaka, surrounded by two rivers, is Nakanoshima Park where the hustle and bustle of the city becomes very calm. Though the year-round supporting beauty is good, it is like their ginkgo trees come out to play during the fall. It is nice to get away from the crowd and go for a stroll or maybe a leisurely picnic most probably away from Osaka temptations. And as it is not far from the very heart of the metropolis, one can easily go leaf-handling and then visit the favourite corners of saturine Osaka- the honorary cafés and cellettes.

Pro tip: You are almost required to make a fuss over the golden ginkgo leaves; the mature Prague ladies are surprisingly convinced there is real beauty in them.

4. Shitennoji Temple

Japanese fall season is incomplete unless you visit one shrine and Shitennoji which happens to be one of the most ancient places in Japan is good for the history and nature lovers. The beauty does not stop there, for even as the season changes and the leaves turn a variety of colors, the great harmony between the ancient structure and the nature- changing foliage is amazing. You may be sitting feeling strangely pensive and introspective instead, mulling over I have even deeper thoughts, such as: where is the ramen shop? Good thing in Osaka, there is always an answer to that question.

Tip for you: The best way to enjoy within the temple premises is to take a stroll around, but do not fret if your mouth goes loud to discuss your thoughts, autumn leaves will hear you quite well.

5. Expo ’70 Memorial Park

This large park was built to honor the 1970 International Exposition and boasts over 5000 trees that adorn itself orange, red and golden colors during the fall season. It is that kind of place which you just wanted to get some delightful landscape photos, making why you wish you shoot with a drone up the landscape. For those who are looking for perfection and transition from summer to autumn Japanese Garden in Commemorative Park deserves special attention.

Tip for you: Do remember to seek out ‘The Tower That Sheds Sunlight’ – a surreal, slightly odd piece of plastic which serves as a metaphor that even in the thicket of trees, the Osaka still manages to add a twist to the tale.

6. Sumiyoshi Taisha

One of the most popular Shinto shrines of Osaka, Sumiyoshi Taisha is also famous for its unique arched bridge along with its significance. In the autumn, the mound is filled with red and yellow leaves which create a calm skyline that is neither too sacred nor too ostentatious for the modern day. The arched Sorihashi Bridge is quite stunning too especially when surrounded with the hues of autumn foliage. And if you are fortunate enough, you may also be able to witness an authentic shinto wedding ceremony, adding even more charm to your day.

Pro tip: Wish while crossing the bridge—It takes attraction to bring players good fortune. (You never know, perhaps it will work but no promises!)

7. Daisen Park

Few people may be aware that there is another flower park in southern Osaka that is close to the Mozu Tombs, which is designated as one of the world heritages. Daisen Park is not as well known as the other places in Osaka for viewing the autumn foliage, which makes it a great option for people who love nature and want a break from crowds - you, trees, and a couple of rodents. The Japanese Garden in the park is superb during the fall season as well, where the lovely saplings full of red maples all in one place create a calm oasis from the bustling city.

Pro tip: Before leaving in haste, do not forget to pay a visit to the Mozu Tombs which will give you a perspective on Osaka’s oldest settlement – as in this city, one can always look for something interesting and learn.

Bonus: Osaka’s Autumn Street Food Scene

Your adventure to Osaka wouldn’t be justified without indulging in the cuisine offered by this place. Although considered autumn as the most picturesque season of the year, it is still the season of kuris (chestnuts), satsumaimo (sweet potato) and matsutake mushrooms which can be very delectable also .These ingredients can be found emerging in many food stalls and backstreet chain izakayas. Thus while you are busy craning your neck looking at the trees, remember to keep your eyes (and stomach) open for Osaka’s autumn tidbits as well.

Enjoyable as a walk in the park for the wide city of Osaka during the autumn season, this season is an explosion of colors as state-of-the-art skyscrapers and ancient temples bask in autumn’s glory. From the famous osaka castle to the tranquil minoh park there are many places where you can view the fall colors. Hike, or picnic, or even foot through the woods on a quiet path simply experiencing the windy autumn leaves in osaka is sure to make you feel easy and if distance permits the season make you want to have the’ll opens the closet of a philosopher’ type of feeling.

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Image: Automn leaves sprinkled