Osaka might a buzzing urban metropolis, but there is no shortage of beautifully maintained parks where you can experience some outdoor fun in the heart of the city.
Parks close to the urban centre include the famous Osaka Castle Park, the spectacular waterfront Nakanoshima Park, and Kema Sakuranomiya Park known for its magnificent cherry trees. Venturing north, you can hike up to a waterfall at Mino Park or tour the wonderful Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm Houses at Hattori Ryokuchi. Osaka's two Expo Parks where the Japan World Exposition was held in 1970 and '90 are both lively spots with diverse attractions. Finally, in the city's south, animal lovers can visit Osaka's zoo beside the well-known Tennoji Park and sports lovers can see the stadium that hosts the Osaka International Ladies Marathon at Nagai Park.