Just before summer rolls in, Osaka will experience a brief period of rainy days. But don’t let that dampen your spirits, as this is exactly when the city’s hydrangeas bloom in their multi-coloured glory.
Nestled in the northwest corner of the expansive Natural and Cultural Gardens at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, the gorgeous Hydrangea Forest was renovated just last year. It now boasts roughly 50 varieties of hydrangeas in a spectacular array of vivid hues.
During the festival, you can also check out two site-specific installations that double as photo spots. The ‘Forest Palette’ features a circular formation with vibrant ribbons radiating from a central tower. Meanwhile, ‘Graffiti Street’ is more interactive. Here, you are encouraged to write down messages on colourful stickers and affix them to large boards adorned with outlines of rainbows and hydrangeas, ultimately transforming the displays into a collaborative work of mosaic art.
You can check the hydrangeas’ blooming status here before you go. Do note that the Natural and Cultural Gardens requires an admission fee of ¥450 for adults and high school students.
AloJapan.com