Utsubo Park

Osaka’s flashing lights, rich food culture and youthful, vibrant atmosphere make it a favorite destination with travelers, but it can all become overwhelming. The city’s Utsubo Park offers an escape. Housed on grounds that once served as U.S. airfield followed by a fish market, the oblong, rectangular park now serves as an urban green space where Osakans come to unwind and breathe the fresh air.

The Utsubo Tennis Center occupies the western end of the park, with eight courts available to the public by reservation. Of greater interest to the visitor are the extensive rose gardens at the east end of the park, and in May, flower lovers and shutterbugs flock here to take in the multi-hued summer display. While not as impressive as rose season, the park is also beautiful in mid-spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.