Japan’s Biggest Seafood Festival
Japan’s massive SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL arrives in Osaka for four days of seafood bowls, grilled shellfish, regional specialties, and live tuna-cutting demonstrations at Expo ’70 Park.
Japan’s love of seafood takes center stage when SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL arrives at Expo ’70 Park this March. The touring food event has become one of the country’s largest celebrations of fish cuisine, bringing together seafood vendors, regional specialties, and live culinary demonstrations for a four-day outdoor festival in Osaka.
Dozens of food stalls serving dishes drawn from fishing communities across Japan. Popular menu items typically include fresh tuna and salmon rice bowls, oysters and grilled shellfish, seafood ramen, and specialty dishes showcasing regional ingredients.
One of the biggest highlights is the live tuna-cutting show. During these demonstrations, expert fishmongers carve a massive whole tuna in front of the crowd using traditional long knives before portions are prepared and served fresh to visitors.
Beyond the food itself, the event also reflects a broader effort to promote Japan’s seafood culture. Organizers launched the SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL series to introduce younger generations to regional fish dishes and support the country’s fishing communities.
With dozens of vendors, outdoor seating areas, and the relaxed park setting of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, the Osaka edition promises a lively spring gathering where seafood lovers can taste specialties from across the country in one place.
Tuna-Carving Spectacle — Watch expert fishmongers carve a massive whole tuna live on stage before it’s served fresh.
Seafood Street-Food Village — Dozens of stalls offer tuna bowls, grilled shellfish, seafood ramen, and regional fish specialties.
Nationwide Fishing Ports — Vendors showcase seafood dishes representing fishing regions across Japan.
Expo Park Festival Setting — Outdoor venue at Festival Plaza creates a relaxed open-air festival atmosphere.
Support Japan’s Seafood Culture — The event promotes Japan’s seafood traditions and regional fishing communities.
Photos: Official Website
Maps
Contact
Opening Hours
THE SCENE: FAQ’s
ACCESS
Venue: Festival Plaza, Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
Address: 1-1 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826
Nearest Station
• Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station
• Walking time: approximately 5–10 minutes
How to reach Expo ’70 Park from central Osaka
• Midosuji Line → Senri-Chuo Station → Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station
• From Umeda / Osaka Station area: about 35–45 minutes total travel time
• Exit Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station
• Follow signs for Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Central Entrance
• After entering the park, walk toward Festival Plaza, the main event area used for large outdoor festivals
Other transport options
• Osaka Monorail also connects from Hotarugaike Station (Hankyu / Osaka Airport line)
• Direct monorail access from Kadoma-shi Station
Tip
• The park is large — allow 10–15 minutes walking time inside the park to reach the festival area.
SCHEDULE
Event Dates: March 19–22, 2026
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM each day
Typical Festival Flow
• Morning: crowds arrive when gates open
• Midday (11:30–14:00): busiest period for food stalls
• Late afternoon: shorter lines but some popular items may sell out
Special Demonstrations
• Live tuna-cutting shows are often scheduled during the day
• Exact demonstration times are typically announced on-site or via the event website
Recommended visiting time
• Early morning (9:30–11:00) for shortest food lines
• Mid-afternoon (after 15:00) once peak lunch crowds leave
TICKETS
Festival Admission
• ¥500 entry fee
• Elementary school age and younger: Free
Important: Festival admission is separate from park entry.
Expo ’70 Park Admission
• Adults: ¥260
• Elementary & Junior High: ¥80
Total expected cost
• Adults: approximately ¥760 total entry (festival + park)
Where to buy
• Festival tickets typically purchased at the event entrance
• Park admission purchased at Expo ’70 Park gates
Food purchases
• All food and drinks are sold separately at vendor booths
Payment
• Many stalls accept credit cards and electronic payment, but cash is recommended
INFO & TIPS
Expect crowds
• The festival can attract large weekend attendance, especially during lunch hours
Arrive early for popular dishes
• Seafood bowls, oysters, and specialty items may sell out by mid-afternoon
Best strategy
• Walk the festival first
• Identify must-try stalls
• Return to purchase food to avoid missing popular items
Seating
• Outdoor seating areas are available
• Seating may be limited during peak hours
Weather
• The event is outdoors
• Dress for early spring weather — March can still be cool
Families
• The festival is family-friendly
• Strollers are permitted inside Expo ’70 Park
Venue Information
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
https://www.expo70-park.jp
Organizer
SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL Organizing Committee