Osaka is often thought of as a bustling city, but just a short drive away, there are numerous spots where you can experience the richness of nature and history. If you want to get away from the noise of the city and enjoy a drive in the suburbs of Osaka, there are many attractive places worth visiting. In this issue, we will introduce five spots where you can experience a different side of Osaka that you cannot experience in urban areas.
Minoh Otaki Waterfall
About 40 minutes by car from Osaka Station to the north. Minoh Otaki Waterfall is a large waterfall selected as one of the “100 Best Waterfalls in Japan” and is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy nature to the fullest. The powerful sight of water cascading down from the 33-meter-high waterfall is a sight to behold.
Hiking trails have been developed in Minoh Park, where Minoh Otaki Waterfall is located, where visitors can enjoy nature in each of the four seasons, with fresh greenery in spring and autumnal colors in fall being particular highlights. There is also a store near the falls that sells a local specialty, “maple tempura” so a stop during your drive is recommended!
information
- Address: 2-2 Minoh Koen, Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours: Open 24 hours a day
- Admission fee: Free
- Distance from Osaka Station: Approximately 30~40 minutes by car
- Parking: Yes (fee required)
- Official website: https://minohkankou.net/english/
Katsuo-ji Temple
Katsuo-ji Temple is known as a temple of victory and luck, spread out on a 255-meter-high mountain. It has a long history and is said to have been visited by many Japanese samurai to pray for victory. The spacious temple grounds are surrounded by nature and offer a healing environment for visitors.
Of particular note are the many “Kachi no Daruma” (winning dharma dolls) lined up on the temple grounds. Each of the dharmas has a different expression, and they are placed in various places on the temple grounds, making it fun just to walk around and look at them. Representing the spirit of “seven falls and eight rises,” these dharmas are symbolic of prayers for “victory” in sports, examinations, love, and business.
Katsuo-ji Temple is a perfect excursion destination for a nature-rich drive near Osaka. It is recommended to visit at the same time as the Minoh Great Falls mentioned earlier!
information
- Address:Katsuo-ji Temple, Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture
- Business hours:
- Weekdays, Sundays, national holidays: 8:00AM-17:00PM
- Saturdays: 8:00AM-6:00PM
- Admission fee:
- High school students and older: 500 yen
- elementary and junior high school students: 400 yen
- preschool children: 100 yen
- children under 2: free
- Distance from Osaka Station: Approximately 30~40 minutes by car
- Parking: Yes (fee required)
- Official website: https://minohkankou.net/english/
Yodogawa River Park Hirakata District
If you want to spend a relaxing time while feeling nature, Yodogawa River Park Hirakata District is the perfect place for you. The vast lawn and the gentle flow of the Yodogawa River make it a comfortable place for picnicking, jogging, and enjoying sports.
In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the area is crowded with people enjoying cherry blossom viewing. It is also popular with families with children, who can spend a relaxing time enjoying the outdoors.
information
- Address: Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day
- Admission: Free
- Distance from Osaka Station: Approximately 40 minutes by car
- Parking: Yes (free)
- Official website: https://www.yodogawa-park.jp/en/
Shigisan Asagosonji Temple
Located about an hour east of Osaka on the border with Nara Prefecture, Shigisan Asagosonji Temple is a great spot to visit on a road trip. The temple features a tiger motif and is a popular photo spot.
The temple grounds feature unique tiger figurines and a beautiful Japanese garden, allowing visitors to enjoy history and nature at the same time. The observatory also offers a spectacular view of the Osaka Plain, and is a great place to end a road trip.
information
- Address: 2280-1, Shigisan, Misato Town, Ikoma County, Nara Prefecture
- Opening hours: 8:00AM~5:00PM
- Admission: Free (special admission may be charged)
- Distance from Osaka Station: Approximately 1 hour by car
- Parking: Yes(fee may apply)
- Official website: https://www.sigisan.or.jp/en/
Kurondo Pond
Surrounded by nature, Kurondo Pond is a quiet lake located on the west side of Osaka. There are campgrounds and hiking trails in the surrounding area, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy nature. Fishing and boating can also be enjoyed, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while relaxing.
information
- Address:: 1 Sugi, Hirakata, Osaka
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day
- Admission fee: Free
- Distance from Osaka Station: Approximately 50 minutes by car
- Parking: Yes (free)
- Official website: https://www.hira2.jp/ (Only Japanese website)
Summary
Osaka is not only home to bustling urban landscapes such as Universal Studios Japan and Tsutenkaku Tower. A short drive away, you will find quiet nature, historic temples, and beautiful landscapes scattered throughout the city. Whether you enjoy the beauty of the waterfalls at Minoh Great Falls, the spiritual atmosphere of Japan at Katsuo-ji Temple, or the serenity of Kurondo Pond, you will discover new charms in Osaka.
Make memories, take beautiful pictures, and experience the charms of Osaka that can only be enjoyed by car!
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