Nakanoshima: Great spot with historic buildings and rose garden

While Umeda, Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Tennoji number among Osaka’s well-known sightseeing spots, Nakanoshima is a hidden sightseeing spot that is located between Umeda and Shinsaibashi.

Nakanoshima is the area surrounded by the river, as shown in this photo. It is approximately 3 km in length from east to west, which makes it a perfect place for strolling.

Copyright © National Land Image Information (Color Aerial Photographs), Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Nakanoshima has many historical buildings.

If you visit Nakanoshima, you’ll want to take a look at the architecture that was built there in the very first years of the 20th century. Allow me to introduce three of Nakanoshima’s top buildings.

Osaka City Central Public Hall

Osaka Central Public Hall was built in 1904 and serves as a symbol of the city together with Osaka Castle.

The building is used for lectures and concerts, in the aim of serving Japan’s cultural, artist, and social life.

Bank of Japan, Osaka branch

This brick building was constructed in 1903, based on the design of the National Bank of Belgium building.

Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library

This library was built in 1904.

If you visit Nakanoshima, do be sure to go and take a look at these old, historical buildings.

Also, close by Nakanoshima is the Free WiFi Cafe Brooklyn Roasting Company Kitahama that I wrote about some time back. This is another spot that is good to visit.

Winter brings events featuring illumination and 3D mapping.

You’re in luck if you can visit Osaka around Christmas time. This is because of the illumination and 3D mapping events that are held at this time of year.

3D mapping projected on to Osaka City Central Public Hall.

Night views of Nakanoshima are also lovely.

Both children and adults will enjoy this event, so you can spend a wonderful time here with your family or sweetheart.

During May and October, the roses in Nakanoshima Park are in full bloom.

This is also great news for people who can visit Osaka in May or October.

(c)　Osaka Government Tourism Bureau

Nakanoshima Park was constructed in 1891. This historic spot was the first park to be built within the city. Currently, the park is home to 310 varieties of roses. The roses are at their best around mid-May and mid-October and are a must-visit if you are able to visit Osaka at this time.

Nakanoshima offers the opportunity to learn about Japan’s history or enjoy its nature. There are still many people who do not know about this spot.

When you get a chance, be sure to pay a visit to explore Nakanoshima.