Japan Mint Cherry Blossom Passage
The gates of the Japan Mint open for just one week each April to reveal a rare cherry blossom corridor of late-blooming yaezakura — but entry is strictly by advance reservation.
Each spring, after Osaka’s main sakura parks begin to fade, a second wave of blossoms quietly takes over along the Okawa River. For one carefully controlled week in early to mid-April, the Japan Mint’s Cherry Blossom Passage (Sakura no Torinuke) opens its gates to the public, unveiling a 560-meter corridor lined with hundreds of late-blooming cherry trees.
Unlike other popular Sakura spots, like Osaka Castle or Kema Sakuranomiya, this is not a free-flowing park visit. The Mint Bureau grounds are normally closed to the public, and access during cherry blossom season is limited to a single annual viewing period. Most of the trees here are yaezakura (double-flowered varieties), which bloom later than standard Somei-yoshino. That timing makes the Mint one of Osaka’s most reliable “second peak” sakura experiences.
The walk itself is one-directional, guiding visitors slowly beneath layers of dense pink blossoms. With more than 100 varieties represented, including rare cultivars not commonly seen in city parks, the atmosphere feels almost botanical in focus — less picnic-oriented and more about close viewing and appreciation.
Because of heavy demand in recent years, advance online reservations are required for all visitors, even though admission is free. Same-day walk-in entry is not permitted. For locals, it’s a beloved annual ritual; for inbound travelers, it’s one of the most unique and structured cherry blossom experiences in Japan. Take advance of Osaka’s second chance to see the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
Advance reservations for the Cherry Blossom Passage opened on March 18. Since slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, don’t miss out and reserve your spot today!
Late Bloom Advantage — Yaezakura varieties peak after main sakura season.
560-Meter Corridor — A one-way blossom tunnel through restricted grounds.
Rare Varieties — Over 100 cherry cultivars on display.
Limited Window — Open to the public for just one week annually.
Reservation Required — Timed-entry system controls crowds.
Photos: Japan Mint Official Website
Maps
Contact
THE SCENE: FAQ’s
ACCESS
Venue: Japan Mint Osaka
Address: 1-1-79 Tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka
JR Tozai Line → Osakatemmangu Station
(Exit 1) About 15 minutes on foot toward the Okawa River.
Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line → Minamimorimachi Station
(Exit 3) About 15 minutes on foot.
JR Osaka Loop Line → Sakuranomiya Station
(West Exit) About 15 minutes on foot along the river.
Entry is one-directional during the event; visitors exit on the opposite side from entry.
SCHEDULE
The Japan Mint Cherry Blossom Passage is traditionally held for one week in early to mid-April. Exact dates are announced annually on the official Mint website, usually several weeks before the event.
Opening hours:
- Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Weekends: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Hours and entry windows are subject to official confirmation for 2026.
RESERVATIONS
Admission is free, but advance online reservation is mandatory.
2026 Reservations began Wednesday March 18th at 9:00AM and slots are limited so get in early.
Reservation Flow (Typical Process):
1. Visit the official Japan Mint reservation page once dates are announced.
2. Select your preferred date and available time slot.
3. Enter visitor information (name, contact details).
4. Receive a confirmation email with a QR code or digital entry pass.
5. Present the QR code at the entrance checkpoint on the day of your visit.
Reservations are typically required for each visitor, including children.
Walk-in entry without reservation is not permitted during the viewing period.
Slots may fill quickly during peak weekend hours.
INFO & TIPS
Eating and lingering inside the corridor is discouraged due to one-way flow.
Strollers are allowed but may be slowed during peak periods. Photography is permitted, but tripods may be restricted.
Because yaezakura bloom later, pairing this visit with earlier-blooming parks (like Osaka Castle or Kema Sakuranomiya) creates a multi-week sakura experience in Osaka.
