Best Time to Visit Osaka

The city experiences its peak crowds, whether locals or from overseas, during the spring Sakura season. If you wish to avoid the crowds, a trip during the off-season from December to February and from June to August is highly recommended to find your personal best time to visit Osaka.

The climate in Osaka is subtropical. Summer is hot, reaching 84.2 °F. In June and July, the city experiences its maximum waterfall. Winter is from December to February, and the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 42.8 °F.

Spring comes to Osaka by the end of March and reaches its full force at the beginning of April when cherry blossoms burst into bloom. The months from September to early December signify autumn, a time to enjoy Osaka's autumn colors.

The city has the right blend of historical and contemporary attractions suitable for visitors of all age groups. Plus, Osaka is family-friendly, making it easy to plan the perfect vacation for your loved ones.

So, let’s find out: when is the best time to visit Osaka?

Peak Season (March to May)

Spring is the peak season in Osaka. By making your Osaka jaunt in early spring, you’ll have an opportunity to witness the parks and gardens blossoming and hit the city’s weather-sweet spots. That's when you are more likely to run into big crowds due to hanami celebrations and perfect weather to tour the city. The average spring temperature hovers between 59°F and 68°F.

Key events:

• Cherry Blossom Viewing (late March – early April)
• Osaka Nemophila Festival (April-May)
• Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival (early May)
• Osaka Comic Con (early May)

Shoulder Season (September to November)

September to November is the next best season to visit Osaka as the weather lingers around 50°F to 70°F degrees during the daytime. The city is still crowded with tourists well into late October. These months feature many annual events, especially the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, which is deeply rooted in Osaka and Japan’s history.

Key Events:

• Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (mid-September)
• Kansai Queer Film Festival (mid-late Oct)
• Hannan City Yagura Festival (early October)
• Osaka Mecha Happy Festival (early Oct)
• Goryo Jinja Shrine Autumn Festival (mid-October)
• Midosuji Runway (early November)
• Shitennoji Wasso Festival (early November)
• Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Japan (early Sep-early Nov)
• Mini Momiji Festival (mid-November – early December)
• Shinno-sai Festival (November 22-23)
• Osaka Flower carpet (late November)

Low Season (December to February, June to August)

The months from December to February and June to August fall under the low season in Osaka.

December to February

If you are looking to save money, the best time to visit Osaka is during the chilly winter season, especially in January and February. Though temperatures average in the 46°F to 50°F range, with January being the coldest month (42°F), you will enjoy a more authentic Osaka while avoiding large tourist hordes. The city sparkles with winter illumination, particularly the famed Midosuji Street and the Osaka City Central Public Hall lights.

Key events:

• Oshogatsu (several days in January after New Year)
• Osaka’s Toka Ebisu Festival
• Osaka Christmas Market (early - late Dec)
• Ramen Expo (early - late December)
• Christmas at Universal Studious Japan (late Nov – early Jan)
• Shitetenoji Doya Doya Festival (Jan 14)
• Festival of Lights Osaka (early Nove – late Jan)
• Dojima Yakushido Setsubun Omizukumi Festival (Feb 2)
• Ichiya Kanjo (One Night) Festival (Feb 20)
• Osaka Auto Messe (mid-Feb)

June to August

Summer in Japan is hot, humid, and sticky. The rainiest month is June. On top of that, the first month of summer marks the start of typhoon season. July receives the highest amount of sunshine, with temperatures between 75°F and 88°F. The humidity remains quite high. Keep an eye out for the typhoon forecast to modify your travel plans if necessary. Packing an umbrella, loose clothes, and sunscreen is a must.

Key events:

• Sumiyoshi Shrine Rice-Planting Festival (mid-June)
• Aizen Festival (late June – early July)
• Tenjin Matsuri (late July)
• Senshu Beach Lantern Festival (early July)
• Daigaku Festival at Ikune Shrine (July 24 and July 25)
• Yodogawa Fireworks Fest (early Aug)
• Summer Sonic Osaka (mid-Aug)
• Tenjin Tenwa Awa Odori (late Aug)