June is an underrated time for tourists to visit Japan, as it marks the beginning of summer in Japan with cozy, warm weather (and sometimes some rain!) and a more relaxed atmosphere. Since it is not peak season, fewer crowds mean more space to enjoy the city at your own pace. We have handpicked many interesting events to help you experience Osaka’s vibrant mix of culture. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or just looking to soak in the local vibe, you can enjoy a refreshing start to summer adventures in Osaka.
Whisky tasting event – Photo Credit: Whisky Culture Research Institute Co., Ltd.
Osaka Whisky Festival
The Whisky Festival in Osaka is one of Japan’s premier whisky tasting events, making it a must-visit for any alcohol lover. This festival brings together over 100 exhibitors from around the world, it’s open to anyone aged 20 and up. You will get to sample a wide variety of whiskies, many of which are available to taste for free. Since 2007, the festival has made its way through cities like Tokyo and Osaka, growing into a major event that now includes special editions such as the Bourbon Festival and Bottlers Whisky Festival. Visitors can enjoy expert-led seminars, blind tastings, and cocktails crafted by top bartenders, all while browsing whisky-themed merchandise and enjoying tasty snacks.
Admission: ¥5,000 (includes tote bag, bottled water, and unlimited tastings)
Dates: June 28 – 29, 2025
Location: ATC Hall, 2-1-10 Nanko-Kita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka, Japan
Time:
- Session 1: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- Session 2: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Website: https://whiskyfestival.jp/osaka2025/
Colorful hydrangeas – Photo Credit: Hanabun Osaka
Osaka Garden of Floral Culture: Hydrangea Festival
Many may not know that June’s ideal weather can bring hydrangeas into full bloom. Various species of hydrangeas change color depending on the soil acidity, so they can be blue, pink, purple, to soft, pastel colors. One of the top places to enjoy these early summer flowers is the Osaka Garden of Floral Culture — also known as Fululu Garden. Spanning over 10 hectares, the garden features a variety of seasonal flower gardens, including roses, clematis, peonies, plum blossoms, and soon, vibrant hydrangeas this summer. Throughout the year, you’ll find colorful floral displays with a pyramid-shaped greenhouse as a popular photo spot. The garden also hosts various family-friendly events, workshops, and exhibitions. While you’re there, don’t forget to enjoy a relaxing time at the café and take beautiful photos in the hydrangea fields to refresh your summer vibes.
Admission: Adults ¥580, High School Students ¥290
Dates: June 1–30, 2025
Location: Osaka Garden of Floral Culture, 2292-1 Takamukai, Kawachinagano City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Time: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays; if Monday is a holiday, closed the following day)
Website: https://hanabun-osaka.witc-pm.jp/
Oxen plowing ritual – Photo Credit: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Taisha Rice Planting Ceremony (Otaue Shinji)
The Otaue Rice Planting Festival is a special event held once a year in Osaka to honor rice, Japan’s main staple food. It takes place on June 14 at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest and most unique shrines. The festival celebrates traditional rice farming through rituals, singing, and dancing. Other highlights include oxen plowing the fields, a purification ceremony, and participants in samurai costumes planting rice and joining a lively traditional parade. The shrine itself is also worth visiting for its distinctive Japanese-style architecture.
Admission: Free
Dates: June 14, 2025
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka, Japan
Time: 1:00 PM
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/rituals.html
Aizen parade – Photo Credit: Osaka style
Aizen Festival
Aizen Festival is one of Osaka’s three grandest summer festivals, dedicated to the deity of love and charm. In the parade, specially selected young women from the community known as “Aizen Musume” are seated atop decorated floats. Each year, about 300 to 400 women apply to become Aizen Musume, but only 8 finalists are selected based on their charm, energy, love for traditional festivals, and availability to attend all events. Applicants must be 18 to 35 years old and able to wear a yukata without assistance, reflecting their connection to Japanese culture. Apart from parading, there are also festive food stalls, traditional Japanese performances, and sparrow dancing. It truly marks the beginning of summer with a memorable experience for both locals and visitors.
Admission: Free
Dates: June 30 – July 2, 2025
Location: Aizen-do (Shoman-in) Temple, 5-36 Yuhigaoka-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka, Japan
Time: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Website: https://www.aizendo.com/festival.htm
Collaborative menu x CAFE Lab – Photo Credit: Jujutsu Kaisen Exhibition Project Committee
Jujutsu Kaisen Exhibition Osaka
The real anime lovers would never want to miss this event, especially if you are a fan of the famous Jujutsu Kaisen. In this exhibition, you will delve into the unpublished creative process in making the series, from behind-the-scenes sketches to exclusive commentary from Gege Akutami himself. The exhibition will take us through story highlights, character design, and illustration. Visitors can purchase exclusive merchandise featured only at the event, so don’t miss out on Gojo Satoru’s merch or grab your favorite character’s collectibles.
Admission: ¥2,000 – ¥4,200
Dates: April 19 – June 9, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:30 PM); Note: Closes at 5:00 PM on May 15 for exhibit changes
Website: https://jujutsuten.com/
The way to see me – Photo Credit: Atsuchi Tomoko (Artist) Courtesy of Tezukayama Gallery
Kansai Art Annual 2025 “CO”
Kansai Art Annual 2025 is a new exhibition that showcases rising artists connected to the Kansai region. It is a joint project by APCA, known for Art Osaka, and Shinsaibashi PARCO, a supporter of creative culture venues. The event highlights top local galleries and artists whose works reflect today’s spirit. This first edition, titled “CO”, focuses on collaboration between artists, galleries, and the wider art community. The exhibition aims to help visitors connect with modern art in a relatable and fun way.
Admission: Free
Dates: May 23 – June 22, 2025
Location: Shinsaibashi PARCO, 9F EVENT SPACE, 1-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closes at 6:00 PM on June 22)
Website: https://www.artosaka.jp/2025/en/event/904/
OAD exhibition poster – Photo Credit: Osaka Art & Design
Osaka Art & Design 2025
Another art exhibition with free entry, Osaka Art & Design is a citywide event where visitors can explore the streets and discover art and design in various forms, including photography, artworks, graphics, paintings, and furniture design. The theme ranges from imaginative pieces to stylish functional designs as a combined stage for creativity. The event celebrates the intense passion that drives artists and designers to connect with passersby through shared energy. As these passions come together, visitors will be inspired by the new wave of Kansai art and culture.
Admission: Free
Dates: May 28 – June 24, 2025
Location: Hankyu Umeda Main Store, 8-7 Kakuda-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan
Time: Opening hours vary by venue; please check the official website for details
Website: https://www.osaka-artanddesign.com/en/
Food trucks at LOHAS Festa Expo – Photo Credit: LOHAS Festa Expo
LOHAS Festa EXPO 2025
LOHAS Festa is an eco-friendly expo that began in 2006 at the International Exhibition Memorial Park in Osaka, promoting a lifestyle that’s kind to people and the planet. Over the years, it has expanded to cities like Tokyo, Hiroshima, Awaji Island, and Fukuoka. In 2025, LOHAS Festa will showcase handcrafted items made from waste materials, fair trade goods, and healthy food as part of EXPO 2025. Visitors can enjoy interactive workshops to learn more about the SDGs and experience a way of sustainable living. The event will also feature unique upcycled crafts, antiques, and products that reflect eco-conscious choices.
Admission: Free (Expo 2025 admission ticket required)
Dates: June 2–4, 2025
Location: EXPO Arena “Matsuri”, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website: https://lohasfesta.jp/46867/lohasfesta-expo2025
Omurice from the famous Hokkyokusei restaurant– Photo Credit: Osaka Gourmet
Osaka Gourmet EXPO 2025
Running alongside the Osaka-Kansai Expo, the Osaka Gourmet EXPO 2025 will span approximately six months to showcase the region’s rich culinary culture. The event will feature signature dishes from Osaka and highlight top restaurants from across the Kansai area. Around 30 renowned Osaka eateries will participate, including the birthplace of omurice and popular beef cutlet sandwich shops. Visitors can savor these flavors in a comfortable, air-conditioned venue with live music and fun performances. Special events such as a ramen festival and hands-on gyoza grilling sessions will also add to the fun. You should not miss this perfect opportunity to experience authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest!
Admission: Free
Dates: April 12 – October 13, 2025
Location: Taiyo no Hiroba, Osaka Castle Park, Osaka, Japan
Time: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Website: https://osaka-gourmet-expo.com/
People enjoying their food at the riverside – Photo Credit: R Riverside Grill & BEER GARDEN
“R” RIVERSIDE GRILL & BEER GARDEN
A beer garden event opens at Nakanoshima Park, offering Korean BBQ and a daytime BBQ set at a good price in a nice atmosphere. It is easy to enjoy since no prep or cleanup is needed, making it great for both kids and adults. Take-out options like lunch boxes and the special dessert, rose soft serve ice cream, are also available for picnics in the rose garden. The venue sits between two rivers in the city center, providing a nice riverside view. There’s also a covered area, so visitors can enjoy the experience even in bad weather. This event is perfect for family-friendly outings, offering a fun and relaxing spot to enjoy great food and the beauty of nature.
Admission: Free (Food and drink purchases required)
Dates: March 1 – December 25, 2025
Location: Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden, Osaka, Japan
Time:
- Weekdays: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays:
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Dinner: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Website: https://www.walkerplus.com/event/ar0727e189290
From unique exhibitions and colorful art festivals to delicious food fairs, riverside BBQs, and buzzing beer gardens, June in Osaka promises a memorable experience for everyone. It’s the perfect time to soak up the city’s lively atmosphere while avoiding the usual tourist crowds. With fewer lines and a more relaxed pace, you can uncover hidden gems and enjoy a deeper connection with Kansai culture during your trip. If you want to make the most of early summer in Osaka—soak in vibrant events, explore local culture, and experience the city like a true local, let Arigato Japan create a custom itinerary just for you. Feel free to reach out anytime at info@arigatojapan.co.jp.
Featured Photo Credit: iamlukyeee
Discover more of what Japan has to offer this summer, whether in Osaka or elsewhere, with one of our incredible Summer Food Tours!
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