Tennoji Park is a sprawling tourist attraction in Osaka. It spreads over 28.8 hectares and was designed in 1909. The park is not for a mere recreational experience but much more than that. It has Keitakuen, a traditional Japanese garden with huge trees and greenery everywhere. There is also a Tennoji Zoo where you will see over 230 species. It is the perfect destination to spot rhinoceros, lions, red pandas, and penguins. You can also see hippopotamus swimming with fishes in the underwater pool.
This Buddhist Park also has the famous Shitenno-ji Temple where the spiritual vibes simply engulf the aura. Seek blessings from the deity and wish for prosperity and good health while you are here. Another thing which is not worth missing is the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts. It has a collection of craftworks, paintings, and sculptures, allowing you to deep dive into Buddhist culture and history.
• Explore the scenic Japanese garden and Chausuyama Tomb where you will also get the opportunity to interact with the animals and birds of Tennoji Zoo.
• Seek blessings at the Buddhist Temple, Shitenno-ji, located on the grounds of the park and holds immense spiritual significance for the people of Japan.
• Shop and eat to your heart’s pleasure from the numerous dining facilities and retail stores available for tourists in Tennoji Park.
• Participate with your family in the events scheduled throughout the year for parents and kids and immerse yourself in a never-before experience.
• Learn about the park’s history and Japan’s culture at the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts inside the Tennoji Park premises.
By Car: Tennoji Park is merely 8.2 km from Osaka City Centre and will take you approximately 20 minutes to reach. There is parking available on the premises.
By Train: Take the train to Tennoji Station from your source point. If you take the train from Kitahama Station, it will take approximately 7 minutes. Walk towards the west as Tennoji Park is right across the street.
Tennoji Park is open to the public throughout the year.
Best Season: The best time to visit Tennoji Park is in spring when there are cherry blossoms everywhere.
Best Day in the Week: Visit on weekdays as the crowd is comparatively less and you get an immersive experience of the park.
Best Time of the Day: Visit early morning around 7 a.m. to catch the first glimpse of the park without overcrowding to trouble you.
Tennoji Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Japan and was constructed in 1915. This place is home to more than 1,000 animals, categorised into around 230 species. It is divided into multiple themed spaces like the African Savanna where you can observe elephants, giraffes, and lions. Another house is for the reptiles where you can see a nocturnal exhibit. This zoo focuses on education and conservation, giving you a chance to learn about wildlife and what it depicts. The place is perfect for families as kids can gain insight into the animal stories in a fun way.
This is the traditional Japanese Garden located within the Tennoji Park premises. It is a picturesque retreat designed by the famous architect Ogawa Jihei. The garden was established in 1918 and focuses on the traditional Japanese elements. They include a central pond, enveloped in stone lanterns and pruned trees. Watch across the garden and enjoy the scenic beauty of Japan. If you visit in spring, you will witness cherry blossoms everywhere. During autumn, the garden is filled with foliage. This promises a tranquil experience for everyone.
If you are a history buff then the museum will impress you. The place has a rich collection of Asian and Japanese art from modern and ancient times. There are more than 8,000 pieces including a mix of sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and calligraphy. The various exhibitions give you a glimpse of the historic and cultural art movements of Japan. Various lectures, exhibitions, and workshops are scheduled within the museum premises for interactive learning sessions.
Ten-Shiba is a lively recreational area located inside the park. It is popular for its elaborate lawns, cafes, playgrounds, and shops. The green space is perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. There is a wide area which is perfect for leisure, picnics, and sports. Playgrounds are also available for children to have fun. As the weekend hits, Ten-Shiba also hosts food festivals, markets, and concerts.