7 Best Gardens in Osaka

Zen gardens in Osaka always look their best! Perhaps even better.

The harmony of modernity and tradition in Osaka is what makes these gardens exude grace, poise, glamour, and spectacle. 

In Osaka, the hottest month can get a temperature of 29 degrees Celsius on average, while the coldest months can go down to six degrees Celsius, setting the perfect environment for these zen gardens.

Let’s check out seven of the best and must-visit zen gardens in Osaka today. 

1. Garden at Expo Park

First on the list is none other than the Garden at Expo Park. Unlike other gardens in Osaka and across Japan, it doesn’t have a Japanese name. But that doesn’t take away the grandeur of this retreat.

This garden is located in northern Osaka, whose elements were completed within the last 50 years. The place where it is, the Osaka Expo Park, is a vast park and recreational facility created on the site of the 1970 Japan World Exposition.

Designed to introduce foreigners to various Japanese garden styles, the Garden at Expo Park follows the Chisen Kaiyu-shiki style garden or strolling garden meandering around a large pond in the middle. 

Hours: 9:30 AM-5 PM (closed on Wednesdays)

Address: 9-3 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan

2. Kiyomizu-dera

In Osaka and its surrounding locations, it’s not just about zen gardens, but gardens around famous temples. The gardens at Kiyomizu-dera Temple are as famous as it is. It was in 1994 World Heritage Site not only because of how magnificent the temple is, but also because of the nature that surrounds it. 

If you wish to check out the garden from above, head to the wooden stage of the temple’s main hall to see the gorgeous views of colorful cherry trees and maple trees. The Otowa Waterfall is waving, too. 

Hours: 6 AM-6 PM 

Address: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0862, Japan (short train ride from Osaka)

ALSO READ: MUST-VISIT HISTORICAL LANDMARKS IN OSAKA

3. Nishinomaru Garden

Many zen gardens in Osaka are located on the grounds of famous temples, such as the Nishinomaru Garden at Osaka Castle. Here is where hundreds of cherry trees lie on such a lush landscape. Make sure to head over to this place during hanami season and witness magic like you’ve never seen before.

Hours: 9 AM-5 PM March to October, 9 AM-4:30 PM November to February

Address: 2 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka 540-0002, Japan

4. Keitakuen Garden

It’s not hard to spot this garden since it is located right near a train station. The illustrious Keitakuen Garden is also situated directly behind the Osaka Tennoji Zoo and the Osaka City Museum of Art. It’s also quite a story here because the garden once became the residence of the crazy rich Sumitomo Family during the Taisho period. Like the garden at Expo Park, it also follows the Chisen Kaiyu-shiki design. 

Hours: 9:30 AM-5 PM (closed on Mondays)

Address: 1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, Japan

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5. teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

Now, this one’s going to break your norms, as well as your notions of what Japanese gardens are. Right here, you should know that teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is the futuristic version of those traditional gardens.

teamLab, an attraction also famous in Singapore, is known for its interactive digital art, featuring exhibitions that blend cutting-edge technology with artistic expression for that immersive experience that’s difficult to forget. The Nagai Botanical Garden will transform into an experiential art space. For the rest, go see for yourself!

Hours: Hours may vary depending on the season, check with the official website

Address: 1-23 Nagai Koen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka 546-0034, Japan

6. Daisen Park

If there’s one thing that Daisen Park has its edge over the others, it is its sheer size. Within this vast landscape, you’ll find tons of natural and architectural spectacles. There are tea houses, municipal museums, a library, and even a playground if you are with your family. The highlight is its seemingly endless trees and flowers. Be sure to visit during February to see the hypnotic plum trees.

Hours: 9 AM-6 PM

Address: 2-204 Mozusekiuncho, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0802, Japan

ALSO READ: BEST ONSEN IN OSAKA

7. Gokuraku Jodo

Last but certainly not the least is Shitennoji Temple’s Gokuraku Jodo. After a session with Japanese tea and snacks at the temple, you can head over to and indulge your senses in this garden, which features a path that allows you to wander through various garden styles, plus a pond and even a waterfall. But, of course, you know these are representations only. Don’t miss the dry rock garden known as the Fudaraku Garden. 

Hours: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM April to September, 8:30 AM-4 PM October to March

Address: 1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka 543-0051, Japan

The history of Osaka blends perfectly well with its natural habitats. Open magic and appreciate the gifts from nature in these gardens in Osaka. Your endless discovery of Japan awaits.

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