Grand Sumo and More April Events in Osaka!

In April, Osaka bursts with vibrant energy and gentle charm as the city welcomes the season of renewal. What unique experience are you most looking forward to this spring? Let’s explore Osaka’s five must-visit April events, starting with the Grand Sumo Minoh Expo Tournament!

Grand Sumo Minoh Expo Tournament

The Grand Sumo Minoh Expo Tournament is an exciting event that showcases the power and tradition of sumo wrestling! This grand sumo tournament is part of the celebrations leading up to the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. It takes place at the Sky Arena in Minoh City, where around 200 sumo wrestlers come together to show off their incredible strength and skills.

Visitors can expect intense sumo battles, with top-tier wrestlers stepping into the ring to compete. In addition, the tournament also includes fun traditional sumo performances. Shokkiri is a hilarious sumo comedy show that plays with forbidden techniques. Sumo-jinku features wrestlers singing sumo folk songs, while Yaguradaiko is a powerful drum performance that kicks off the event.

Expo ‘70 Sakura Expo

The Expo ’70 Sakura Expo is a magical cherry blossom festival held at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Osaka! The festival happens from late March to early April. Every spring, this park bursts into a breathtaking display of pink and white as over five thousand sakura trees bloom. Some cherry trees bloom early in March, while others bloom in April, so you can see many different types, including Somei Yoshino. 

You can walk through the stunning 200-meter-long cherry blossom tunnel on Higashioji Street, perfect for taking photos. This park is also famous for its Tower of the Sun, which stands tall among the blooming trees, creating a breathtaking view! At night, the park lights up with beautiful illuminations. During the event, The Sakura Food Court also serves delicious seasonal treats while admiring the blossoms!

Illumination at Hirakata Amusement Park 

Hirakata Amusement Park transforms into a dazzling wonderland when the lights come on! This magical event features seven beautifully themed illumination areas, each offering a distinctive atmosphere. One of the most majestic sights is the Flower and Fairy Tree, a towering 13-meter (42-foot) display that sparkles at night. 

The Lighted Lantern Square glows with the soft light of 500 lanterns, creating a warm and enchanting setting. For fun, press a button at the Flower Fortune-Telling Fountain and see it change colors based on your fortune!

Furthermore, Hirakata Park’s night attractions bring an extra thrill! Over 20 rides await, including the Skywalker Ferris Wheel, which rises 80 meters for a spectacular view of the glowing park and Osaka’s skyline. Before sunset, you can also enjoy real flowers mixed with twinkling decorations for an amazing view.

Are you looking for great snacks while enjoying events in April? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Japanese treats directly from Japan!

Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Viewing

For one special week in mid-April, the gates of the Osaka Mint Bureau open to a 560-meter cherry blossom tunnel along the Yodo River. The Osaka Mint is famous for its yaezakura, a rare cherry tree with extra petals that bloom a little later than most sakura. With over 300 trees and around 140 varieties, visitors can also see many rare sakura, such as benitemari, kodemari, and otemari.

This tradition started in 1883 when the Mint’s director thought the trees should be shared with everyone, not just the employees. Since then, thousands of people have visited each year to walk under the blossoms and enjoy the peaceful riverside. While you’re here, you’ll have a chance to explore the Mint Museum, which has cool old coins and medals from Japan’s history!

Gundam Next Future Final Exhibition

The Gundam Next Future Final Exhibition is coming to Osaka to celebrate 45 years of Gundam! This exciting event is the grand finale of the Gundam Next Future – Road to 2025 tour, which has been bringing Gundam fun all over Japan. Fans will see huge Gundam displays, try playful activities, and check out rare collectibles. One of the biggest highlights is the life-sized GQuuuuuuX head, which stands 7.5 feet tall!

Moreover, visitors can join the Gunpla Battle VR, where they can scan their own Gunpla model and battle in virtual reality. There’s also the “Operation Gundam R” project, where fans help recycle Gunpla parts to create something new! Plus, there will be limited-edition Gundam merchandise, including exclusive designs from renowned artist Hiroshi Fujiwara.

Why should I head over to Osaka this April?

Osaka in April is full of life with cherry blossoms, lively cultural events, and a welcoming atmosphere. You can walk through tunnels of pink petals, experience the energy of a grand sumo tournament, and explore unique exhibitions that bring history and creativity together.

The city blends tradition with new experiences, making it a great place to enjoy the season. So, which event would you like to visit in Osaka this spring? Share your thoughts in the comments!