Located in the south of Osaka Prefecture, across the bay from Kansai Airport, Izumisano is known as a gateway city—but it’s much more than just a place to transit. Things to do in this seaside gem range from shopping, strolling along the waterfront, eating fresh seafood, and exploring historical streets, shrines, and temples. Plus, for lovers of the outdoors, there are lush forests, hiking trails, the waterfalls of Mt. Inunaki, and the only mountain onsen village in the prefecture.
Although you can visit Izumisano year-round, spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for exploring its natural and historical attractions. Spring brings cherry blossoms and the Sakura Festival, held on the first Sunday of April at Oiseki Park. The Pillow Festival (Makura Matsuri) takes place at the Hine Shrine in May. In autumn, admire fall foliage on the trails of Mt. Inunaki.
From Monday through Saturday, the city operates a paid community bus in three different loop routes (Northern, Central, and Southern). On Sundays and national holidays, a free tourist sightseeing bus covers two circular routes (Hineno-Rinku Town and Izumisano-Rinku Town Peripheral Route). Taxis are also a good option for getting around. Trains on the JR and Nankai lines both stop in Izumisano.
If you only have a few hours before your flight, head to the Rinku seaside area across the bay from Kansai Airport, where there are storage areas for your luggage. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy a meal and pick up last-minute gifts or other items. You can also ride on the Ferris wheel or watch the planes take off and land at Kansai Airport from Rinku Park.
