Each week, here at Osaka.com, we bring you a selection of some of the top stories about Osaka making the local and national news here in Japan. Sometimes it’s serious, sometimes it’s funny, but it’s always direct to you, from Osaka.
Osaka has entered one of its most dynamic periods of the year, as the arrival of Golden Week brings a surge in tourism, a packed calendar of events, and renewed international attention. Over the past four days, the city has seen a blend of seasonal beauty, economic activity, and cultural vibrancy that highlights why Osaka remains one of Japan’s most compelling urban destinations.
From the shifting colors of spring flowers to major event announcements and global policy discussions, here is a full roundup of the biggest stories shaping Osaka right now.
Golden Week Tourist Boom Begins
Golden Week has officially begun, and Osaka is already feeling the effects of one of Japan’s busiest travel periods. With a series of national holidays clustered together, both domestic and international travelers are flocking to the city in large numbers.
Popular districts such as Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Dotonbori are seeing heavy foot traffic, while hotels and transport services are operating at near full capacity. Kansai International Airport has reported increased passenger volumes, reflecting a steady recovery in inbound tourism.
Local businesses also stand to benefit significantly from this surge. Restaurants, retail outlets, and entertainment venues are experiencing a spike in demand, with many extending operating hours to accommodate the influx of visitors.
The tourism boom is not just about numbers—it also reflects Osaka’s growing global reputation as a must-visit destination. With its mix of street food culture, historical landmarks, and modern attractions, the city continues to appeal to a wide range of travelers
Cherry Blossoms Fade, But Botanical Tourists Shift to Wisteria
While the cherry blossom season has now passed, Osaka’s spring scenery is far from over. Over the past few days, attention has shifted to wisteria, which are now reaching peak bloom across the region.
One of the most talked-about attractions is a privately owned garden in southern Osaka that has opened to the public for a limited time. Featuring tens of thousands of cascading wisteria flowers, the site has quickly become a viral destination, drawing photographers and nature lovers alike. Kajimoto Wisteria Garden is only open for the next few weeks, but will draw large crowds for the duration.
The transition from sakura to wisteria highlights the extended nature of Japan’s spring tourism season. For visitors who missed the cherry blossoms, the vibrant purple and white clusters of wisteria offer a second chance to experience seasonal beauty.
Local tourism boards are actively promoting these lesser-known attractions, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the city center and discover Osaka’s quieter, more scenic locations.
Osaka Hosts International Fisheries Talks
Beyond tourism and entertainment, Osaka has also been at the center of important international discussions this week.
The city hosted a North Pacific fisheries meeting, bringing together representatives from multiple countries to address concerns about declining fish stocks. A key issue under discussion was the proposed reduction of saury fishing quotas, a move supported by Japan but met with resistance from some participating nations.
These talks underscored Osaka’s role as a venue for global policy discussions. While often known for its culinary and cultural appeal, the city is also increasingly recognized as a center for international cooperation and dialogue.
The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the fishing industry across the region, particularly as sustainability becomes an increasingly urgent concern. Included in the talks were regional powers Russia and China, as well as hosts Japan.
Expo Legacy Events Continue to Draw Tourists and Locals Alike
Osaka’s International Expo 2025 continues to influence the city’s event landscape. It may now be more than 6 months since the event closed, but several new announcements reinforce its ongoing legacy.
A major highlight is the recently announced fireworks event planned for Nishikinohama Beach. Designed as part of a broader effort to maintain momentum following the Expo, the show promises large-scale pyrotechnics combined with festival-style activities.
This type of event reflects a wider strategy to keep visitors engaged both before and after Expo 2025. By investing in high-profile attractions, Osaka is positioning itself as a long-term tourism powerhouse rather than a city reliant on a single global event.
In addition to fireworks, new immersive experiences and exhibitions are opening across the region. These include interactive installations and technology-driven attractions that blend entertainment with innovation—an approach that aligns closely with the themes of the upcoming Expo.
And Finally…
It’s not just the ongoing tourist influx that continues to benefit Osaka in the wake of last year’s Expo.
City and Prefectural governments are also set for a substantial windfall from the cash surpluses left over after the event.
Though the figures remain unconfirmed at time of writing, the estimated total surplus sits at around 37 billion yen. This equates to $232 Million US. Half of this total sum will go directly to Osaka, with the other half being retained by the central government for national projects.
Projects in the Kansai region will be managed by Mirai Sozo Kaigi, a new organization launched at the end of March by the central government, the Osaka Prefectural Government, the Osaka Municipal Government, the local business community and others to act as the body to manage the surplus funds.
Expect several announcements over the next few months as the funds are allocated.
That’s all for now but be sure to check back again same time next week for another round of this week in Osaka!
