When Should I Visit Osaka?

Short version: The best times to visit Osaka are in spring or autumn, with winter being a quieter off-season option.

Long version: Like much of Japan, Osaka has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters but hot and humid summers. June and July mark the tsuyu, or rainy season, while September into early October brings tropical storms and occasional typhoons. Since a lot of the charm of Osaka lies in strolling through its outdoor entertainment districts, wet weather may not be ideal.

There’s a reason why spring blossoms and autumn leaves are the most popular seasons to visit Japan. They provide stunning scenery but also attract crowds. While Osaka is quieter than its neighbor Kyoto, the two cities share airports and the Shinkansen line. If your primary interest is exploring Osaka's cityscape and nightlife, the quieter winter season might be a fantastic time to visit.

If you choose summer, you’ll at least enjoy Osaka’s vibrant festivals. The city hosts three major summer events:

• Aizen Matsuri: The first major summer festival, held in late June to early July.
• Tenjin Matsuri: Known for its spectacular fireworks, taking place in late July.
• Sumiyoshi Matsuri: Held in late July to early August.

September and October also bring the thrilling Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, just south of the city, featuring dramatic wooden floats crashing through the streets.