Creating great memories isn’t just about constantly doing things or staying busy, some of the most meaningful moments come when you slow down, relax, and simply enjoy the company of your friends, family, or loved ones. Some of the best memories are made during picnics or BBQs, where everything feels a little more fun and carefree. So if you’re looking to create one of those special moments in the beautiful city of Osaka, come along with me in today’s blog and discover some amazing spots where you can make it happen.
Dutch-style windmill at Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park – Photo Credit: Tsurumi Ryokuchi
Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
This is by far my favourite pick. Ryokucho Park is the kind of place where you go in thinking “just a quick picnic” and somehow end up spending the entire day there. Built as the site of the International Garden and Greenery Exposition (Expo ’90), it still carries that spacious, beautifully designed feel. It’s huge (over 120 hectares of green space) so you’ve got endless spots to lay down a blanket, relax, and enjoy a proper picnic. And if you’re in the mood for something more social, it’s one of the rare places in Osaka where you can actually have a BBQ (check the info and price here), with designated areas that make it super easy to turn it into a fun, laid-back gathering.
What makes it even cooler is that you can still feel that global vibe of the Expo ‘90 today. One of the highlights is the International Garden area, where over 50 countries are brought to life through different landscapes and styles, think Nepal, Indonesia, Iran, Spain, Ireland, Mexico, and more. It honestly feels like a mini trip around the world without needing a passport.
And there’s still more to explore beyond that. You’ve got the iconic windmill surrounded by seasonal flowers, peaceful ponds with birds and koi, scenic walking and cycling paths, and the massive Sakuya Konohana Kan greenhouse filled with plants from all over the world. But it doesn’t stop there, this park really has a bit of everything. Do you feel like playing golf? Check. Trying out tennis or other sports facilities? Check. Want to go horseback riding at the riding club? Also check. You can even camp, explore cultural spots like the Flower Expo Memorial Hall, or take a quiet break at the beautiful Murasaki-tei, a traditional-style tea house where you can slow down and enjoy a peaceful, authentic Japanese atmosphere. Honestly, it’s that perfect mix of relaxing and discovering, Tsurumi Ryokucho Park just makes it effortlessly fun!
Website: https://www.tsurumi-ryokuchi.jp/
Address: 2-163 Ryokuchikoen, Tsurumi Ward, Osaka, 538-0036
The Tower of the Sun – Photo Credit: Parkful
Banpaku Koen Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park
Another option that was also born from an Expo is Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. This is another kind of place where you tell yourself “I’ll just go for a quick walk…” and then suddenly it’s three hours later and you’re still there. Built on the site of the Expo ’70, it’s huge, relaxed, and full of those perfect grassy spots that basically invite you to sit down and do nothing for a while. Ideal for a picnic, and if you’re feeling a bit more organized (or ambitious), there are designated BBQ areas, like the Living Park setup, where everything is ready for you (check the info here). You can book a 4h slot for groups (up to around 15 people), with prices starting at about 2,750 yen per adult, plus optional food and drink plans, just keep in mind reservations are usually required.
What really makes this park stand out is the iconic Tower of the Sun rising in the middle of the park, along with beautiful seasonal gardens that completely change throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn colors. You can also explore museums, rent a bike, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. And then there’s the vibe: on some days, the park hosts music festivals, adding a lively energy to the space. It’s also a favourite spot for families, with kids running around and flying kites, while couples head to the pond to ride boats and enjoy a slower, more relaxed moment.
Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/
Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826
Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Closed on Wednesday)
Admission: Adults (over 15) ¥260, Children (7 -15) ¥80, Children (under 7) Free
Families having a picnic during sakura season – Photo Credit: クシヤン
Nagai Park
Another great option is Nagai Park, and this one has a very different vibe. This is the perfect place if your goal, besides having a picnic, is to get a bit active, as it is the sports park in Osaka. The moment you step inside, you will see runners, cyclists, and people training everywhere, so a small tip is to stick to the sidewalks so you do not get in anyone’s way.
After 2020, the whole park was renovated, and now it feels more like a sports complex than a traditional park, although it still has plenty of green areas to relax. You will find a bit of everything, including a stadium, a skateboarding area, playgrounds, cafés, the immersive teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka, and the Osaka Museum of Natural History, among many other things.
For a picnic, your best option is to stay near the trees, where you can find some shade and a calmer atmosphere. If you go too far into the open grass, you may end up in the middle of a casual football match. Another nice option is the small wooden tables in front of the playground. With a bit of luck, you might also see one of the most charming local scenes, elderly people playing Go, a traditional Japanese board game in which players place black and white stones on a board to control territory through strategy.
Address: 1-1 Nagaikoen, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0034
Osaka Castle Park from above – Photo Credit: Richie Chan
Osaka Castle Park
I can’t talk about parks in Osaka without mentioning Osaka Castle Park. This is a must-go place, not only because it’s one of the most historical spots in Osaka, but also because it’s a perfect place to eat while enjoying beautiful views. It feels iconic from the moment you arrive, with the castle rising in the background and huge open spaces all around it. It’s perfect for a picnic, whether you want to sit under the trees or stretch out on the grass, and the atmosphere is always lively without feeling overwhelming. During cherry blossom season, it becomes one of the most popular spots in the city, full of people enjoying hanami, but even outside of that, it’s great for walking, jogging, or just exploring the grounds. You’ll also find food stalls, cafés, and even boat rides around the moat. BBQ, however, is not allowed, so this one is definitely more about relaxing and soaking in the views.
Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/?lang=en
Address: Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002
Yodogawa Riverside Park – Photo Credit: Shigeaki Nakamura
Yodogawa Riverside Park
Another great option is Yodogawa Riverside Park, especially if you’re looking for something more open and easygoing. Stretching along the river, it offers wide views, fresh air, and tons of space, making it feel much less crowded than central parks. It’s perfect for picnics, but also one of the best places in Osaka for a BBQ, with designated areas where you can grill, sometimes with tables and equipment available. One thing to keep in mind is that open fires are not allowed, so make sure to use a standing portable grill.
The park is also packed with sports facilities, including baseball fields, tennis courts, and football areas, plus long cycling paths that run along the river. You’ll often see people jogging, flying kites, or just chilling by the water. It has a very local, weekend vibe where people come to actually spend the day outdoors.
Website: https://www.yodogawa-park.jp/en/
Address: 7-6 Sotojimacho, Moriguchi, Osaka 570-0098
Reading a book at Tenshiba Park – Photo Credit: けいたろう
Tenshiba Park
If you’re tired of taking the train to go far away and you’re already in the city center, Tenshiba is probably your best option. Located right next to Tennoji Station, it’s incredibly convenient but still feels like a proper green escape. The large, well-kept lawn is perfect for a quick picnic, and since it’s surrounded by cafés, bakeries, and restaurants, you can easily grab food and sit down within minutes.
What makes this place even better is everything around it. Right next to the park you’ve got Tennoji Zoo, the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, open football areas, a dog park, playgrounds, and plenty of space for kids to run around. You’re also just a short walk from Tsutenkaku Tower, so it’s easy to combine it with a bit of sightseeing. BBQ by yourself isn’t allowed here, but there are BBQ restaurants inside the park. Still, it’s ideal for easy, spontaneous picnics right in the middle of the city, with a lively, social atmosphere that feels more like an urban hangout than a traditional park.
Website: https://www.tennoji-park.jp/
Address: 5-55 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063
At the end of the day, it’s not really about finding the “perfect” park, it’s about the moments you create there. Osaka might be known for its food, nightlife, and energy, but it also has this softer, slower side that’s just as special. So grab a blanket, pack your favorite snacks, gather your people, and head out to one of these spots. You never know, what starts as a casual plan might turn into one of your favorite memories in the city.
Featured Photo Credit: Tsurumi Ryokuchi
