Breathtaking Autumn Scenic Spots: Top 5 Hidden “Autumn Leaf” Spots in Osaka

Text & Photos /Matcha

Autumn offers various joys such as “Sports Autumn,” “Reading Autumn,” and “Appetite Autumn,” but don’t forget to fully enjoy the beauty of the season. As autumn arrives and the weather cools down, the trees gradually turn red, creating a stunning sight. MATCHA has selected five excellent maple leaf viewing spots in Osaka and introduces them in this article.

1. Minoo Park

Osaka Koyo photo02 Photo source: Minoo City Tourism Association

The nature-rich national park “Minoo Park” is located on the northern side of Osaka and can be reached by train from downtown Osaka in about 30 minutes. Covering an area of 83.3 hectares, the park features a trail from the entrance that follows the river to Minoo Waterfall, spanning approximately 2.8 kilometers. This path leading to Minoo Waterfall is called the “Momiji-dani Valley,” where the valley is particularly famous for its autumn leaves.

Osaka Koyo photo03 Photo source: Minoo City Tourism Association

On a clear day, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the autumn leaves, waterfall, and even a rainbow.

Osaka Koyo photo04 Photo source: Minoo City Tourism Association

The Momiji-dani Valley also features several charming cafes and rest areas. The “Minoo Gorge Walk” is especially recommended for those looking to fully experience autumn.

2. Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Koyo photo05 Photo source: Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

“Osaka Castle Park” is located in Chuo Ward, Osaka. The vast natural landscape spreads out around the iconic Osaka Castle keep, and during autumn, you can enjoy the rows of golden ginkgo leaves alongside views of the castle. The castle stands tall in the city center surrounded by skyscrapers, and this park is known as an oasis in the urban core due to its rich natural surroundings.

3. Midosuji Avenue

Osaka Koyo photo06 Photo source: Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

“Midosuji” is a major north-south road running through the “north” and “south” of central Osaka, completed in 1937. This approximately 4-kilometer-long street is lined with about 800 ginkgo trees. During the autumn foliage season, the entire road is dyed in vibrant golden hues.

4. Hosoda Garden

Osaka Koyo photo07 Photo source: Osaka Prefecture Greenery Public Corporation

Easily accessible by train, “Hosoda Garden” is a national nature park nestled in a valley. The expansive park boasts rich natural surroundings, making it perfect for hiking. In addition to the “Forest Railway-style Nature Trail” where you can stroll while overlooking the riverbed, there is also a 16.5-meter-high artificial climbing wall, offering not just hiking but also rock climbing experiences.

Osaka Koyo photo08 Photo source: Osaka Prefecture Greenery Public Corporation

You can also take in the magnificent panoramic view from the park’s most famous attraction, the 280-meter-long giant suspension bridge called the “Star’s Swing.” The sweeping autumn leaf scenery visible from the bridge is breathtaking.

5. Daisen Park

Osaka Koyo photo09 Photo source: Daisen Park

The Japanese garden “Daisen Park” has been selected as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Historical Parks.” It is situated between the tomb of Emperor Nintoku (※1) and the Mozu Kofun Cluster’s Hirano-Senbontsubaru Minami Tomb. The vast grounds feature rich natural environments and small ancient burial mounds, offering visitors stunning views. In spring, 400 cherry blossom trees bloom vibrantly, and in autumn, you can admire the vivid contrast of green lawns and colorful autumn leaves. On clear days, you may even see the reflection of trees on the water’s surface.
※1: Kofun... Ancient burial mounds of Japan’s nobility, varying greatly in size.

Postscript:When it comes to autumn leaf viewing spots in the Kansai region, many may think of Kyoto, but Osaka also boasts numerous renowned sites. Since it’s “Appetite Autumn,” why not go leaf-peeping in Osaka, the food capital?

Author: MATCHA
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