Great Runs in Osaka, Japan
Note: For the Full Guide to Running in Osaka, see the GR Website
Osaka, capital of the Osaka Prefecture, is the second largest city in Japan — an important economic hub known for its foodie culture. Situated at the mouth of the Yodo River on the west-facing port of Osaka Bay, coastal Osaka is sometimes known as the “Water City.” Along with its many satellite cities, the metropolitan area of nearly 20 million is a flat sprawl where humid, busy streets. Your best bet for running in Osaka is to go to a specific spot, enjoying the manicured parks, beautiful waterfront paths, and colorful natural spaces.
Osaka Castle. This historic castle is surrounded by a gorgeous, seasonally changing park with 4 km and 3 km running tracks.
Nakanoshima Park. A waterfront park on an island in the O River, Nakanoshima Park features gardens, skyline views, and plenty of opportunity to extend your run.
Osaka Port. A 13 km out and back explores the waterfront of Osaka “Water City” through ports, fishing docks, and bridges.
Yodo River. Another favorite running location for uninterrupted waterfront views is the dike of the Yodo River, the largest waterway in Osaka.
Nagai Park. The expansive greenery of Nagai Park is a popular spot for activities of all sorts — including a 2.8 km flat asphalt track.
Minoo Park: Mino Falls Trail and More. Run the flat paved Takimichi trail which runs 2.7 km one-way from Mino Station to beautiful Mino Falls.
Ibaraki — Linear Park. This 2.8 km linear park in Ibaraki is known as the “Green Tunnel” for its vibrant vegetation surrounding the reclaimed banks of the Ibaraki River.
Tinnoji Nishisaka. Lovers of history and culture will delight in this 8 km one-way route, which explores the many temples of the Tennoji ward. Mix of paths and roads. Can easily do one-way using transport.
Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, or “Citizen’s Rest,” is an extensive botanical garden with a 4.5 km promenade around the park.
Nishiki-no-Hama Beach and Park. This is a favorite “home route” of the Kaizuka Running Club, located along the waterfront of Kaizuka city about 40 minutes south of downtown Osaka. 5 km.
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Run through former Worlds Fair grounds with beautiful gardens. Perimeter is 5k, but there are good interior options. Museums, a Japanese Garden, and other sites.
Rinku Park. A perfect waterfront sunset run near the Kansai Airport in Izumisano City. Multiple options, including ~7 km or ~11 km routes along mainly waterfront paths.
For the full running guide to Osaka, see greatruns.com.
