Osaka: Approaching Full Bloom

Reports of cherry blossoms at full bloom have been announced at many of the cities that had the opening of their first blossoms at the end of March. Cassandra reported that the blossoms in Kyoto were full bloom yesterday, while Matt reported that the cherry blossoms were approaching full bloom in Tokyo yesterday.

I visited three popular cherry blossom spots in Osaka today, and despite full bloom being declared in the city on April 4, I observed that the majority of the cherry trees were not quite at full bloom yet. The temperature was warm and sunny today, and warmer than average temperatures are forecast for the next few days. Some rain is forecast tomorrow morning, but that should not negatively impact the longevity of the open blossoms. Accordingly, I predict that majority of the cherry trees would reach full bloom in 1-2 days, and the best viewing to continue through till the middle of next week at the very least.

My first stop was Kema Sakuranomiya Park, a large park along the Okawa River containing over 4500 cherry trees. I found the cherry trees to be at their best viewing, but not yet at full bloom. I expect cherry blossoms to remain at their best till at least the middle of next week.

My second spot was Osaka Castle, where I found the cherry blossoms mostly approaching full bloom, however, there were areas where the cherry trees were already at full bloom. I expect the cherry blossoms here to remain at their best till at least the middle of next week.

Nishinomaru Park on the castle grounds is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, and requires an admission fee (350 yen). The park is illuminated in the evening from 18:00 to 21:00 (entry until 20:30).

My third and last spot for the day was Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, a spacious public park about 15 minutes by train from Osaka Castle. There are over 1000 cherry trees at the park, and the mainstream Somei Yoshino trees that I observed to be at full bloom were mostly concentrated around the lake. I expect the blossoms to remain attractive till at least the middle of next week.