Okawa River Sakura Cruise

Okawa Sakura Cruise is a limited-time seasonal cruise that tours some of Osaka’s most famous cherry blossom spots along the Okawa River, including Kema Sakuranomiya Park and Minami-Tenmacho Park, aboard the sightseeing boat "Himawari." The cruise is operated by Osaka Suijobus Co., Ltd. The Himawari features comfortable indoor seating where guests can relax and enjoy cherry blossom viewing at a leisurely pace, as well as an open-air deck on the roof that offers unobstructed views. The cruise departs from Hachikenyahama, a historic riverside area that flourished as a departure point for Kumano pilgrimages since the Heian period, and makes a 25-minute round trip passing OAP Port and Nakanoshima Ken-saki before returning to Hachikenyahama. At Nakanoshima Ken-saki, a large fountain designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando is installed, creating elegant arch-shaped water displays every hour on the hour and at 30 minutes past. In spring, approximately 4,700 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom spectacularly along both banks of the Okawa River. On the Miyakojima side lies Sakuranomiya Park, one of Osaka’s best-known cherry blossom destinations, while on the Kita Ward side stands the Osaka Mint, famous for its "Cherry Blossom Passage" showcasing beautiful double-flowered cherry trees. During the cruise, traditional spring sweets such as hanami dango and sakura mochi are also served, enhancing the seasonal sightseeing experience.