The Day Osaka

Known as ajisai in Japanese, the hydrangea blooms during the rainy season, making the flower a symbol of the beginnings of summer in Japan. One of the best events for seeing these seasonal beauties in Osaka is the Maishima Hydrangea Expo, which this year will take place throughout June at The Day Osaka on Maishima Island. Featuring over 100 varieties of hydrangeas, this flower festival invites you to enjoy a wide range of colourful blooms. The event also features two special workshops that take place over two weekends. On the weekend of June 21-22, you get to create hydrangea-themed accessories like pendants, keychains and charms. On the following weekend, June 28-29, you can make stunning flower collages and keepsakes with pressed hydrangeas and other flowers. While admission to the hydrangea expo is free, the workshops require advance reservations at the event website and cost ¥2,000 per person. A special lunch deal is also available during the event at the Day Grill, a restaurant overlooking the flowers, with prices starting at ¥2,900.