What other travelers are saying about Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest, Osaka
To be honest i think i was more excited than my son exploring this beautiful library. Although they are in japanese, google translate helps me read it.
They have allocated sessions and limit entrance to avoid the space being overcrowded. When we arrived, there’s sessions on going so we cannot enter and have to wait until the next session starts. There’s a board stating the sessions of the day (I can’t remember if it’s 30 or 45min sessions) about 5min before it starts, staff came out asking if we have online reservation (which we don’t) but it doesn’t matter. Then they give out pamphlet on basic rules inside the library (no taking photos of the other participants and on the stairs)
Throughly enjoy my session here, only wish it could be longer 😊
Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima is a unique public library and cultural facility designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, located on Nakanoshima island in Osaka, Japan. This innovative children's library features a distinctive concrete architecture and houses an extensive collection of children's books from around the world.
Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays and national holidays. Admission is completely free for all visitors, making it an affordable family attraction in Osaka for children and parents to enjoy reading together.
To reach Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima, take the Keihan Main Line to Nakanoshima Station or the Osaka Metro to Higobashi Station, both within walking distance. The library is easily accessible from central Osaka and is located near other Nakanoshima attractions like Osaka Central Public Hall and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics.
Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima welcomes visitors of all ages, with books suitable for toddlers, elementary school children, teenagers, and adults. The library features picture books, educational materials, and international children's literature, making it perfect for families visiting Osaka with children of different age groups.
Children's Book Forest Nakanoshima operates as a reading space rather than a traditional lending library, so books cannot be borrowed or taken home. Visitors can read and enjoy the extensive collection of children's books on-site in the beautifully designed reading areas created by architect Tadao Ando.
The books are so neat and displayed really well. I loved how the architecture was built near the river view and how it could fit a lot of books and chairs to feel relaxing. The staff was very friendly and helped me take a photo cause I visited alone.
No fee is needed and you can roam around freely in the area for a few hours. It's not too big so it's enough unless you're too locked in on your book.
I came here specifically because the library was designed by Tadao Ando; however, it turned out to be more than I expected. The spatial and light design, along with his iconic béton brut, is superb. I also spent time with my friends exploring some unique children’s books.
A note for everyone: don’t miss the green apple candy at the souvenir shop.
We stumbled upon this place after crossing the Toshahori river looking for the nice park. Hold up?! Giant green apple and a kid’s library? Wait a sec. We love them. I and happen to own 2 children! Sign us up. Luckily we didn’t need any type of reservations and the ladies in the front desk spoke a little English. Super impressed by the layout and design of this architecture. I shouldn’t be surprised but am. Love the staircase for the people to chill and get lost in a book. Great vibe with children and families. We spent almost 1 hour there. My children really enjoyed flipping through some Japanese books. They had a tiny selection of English books too but not a lot. We didn’t have much to complain about.
I came specifically to see the architecture by Tadao Ando, and I was truly impressed. The spatial design, atmosphere, and use of light were all beautifully done. The natural lighting and overall mood felt perfect for a children’s library — warm, welcoming, and a place you’d want to stay in for a while. The design has playful elements, yet it doesn’t take away from the calm, focused atmosphere a library should have.
