Osaka Castle
Built by the “Napoleon of japan,” imposing Osaka Castle towers over the city. Osaka Castle is arguably Osaka’s most prominent landmark and belies bloody power struggles leading up to the 1603 foundation of the Edo era. While its history dates back to 1583, the landmark main tower that is the castle’s icon was only re-constructed in 1931. Today, the history museum adjacent to the castle documents its rich history, while the surrounding park and green space are a hub for Osakans to jog, cycle, and relax.
The view of Osaka Castle from the exquisite Nishinomaru Garden is a sight not to be missed. The garden offers a picturesque setting to admire the castle’s grandeur and take in the beauty of the surrounding cherry and plum groves. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
To get to Osaka Castle, there are several transportation options available. From Osaka Station, you can take the Osaka Loop Line to Morinomiya Station, which will bring you to the southeast side of the park. Alternatively, you may choose to get off at Osakajokoen Station, to the northeast side of the park. If you prefer to explore the area on foot, you can also reach Osaka Castle from Tanimachi Yonchome Station on the Chuo and Tanimachi Metro lines.
Osaka Castle has a fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. Hideyoshi Toyotomi, known as the “Napoleon of Japan,” began construction of Osaka Castle in 1583. Since then, the castle has served as the scene of various conflicts and was burned down and rebuilt several times. The current castle keep was rebuilt in 1931 and now houses a museum that contains information on the history of Osaka Castle. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is 600 yen for adults and free for children age 15 or younger.
One of the highlights of visiting Osaka Castle is the 106 hectares of open park surrounding it. The park offers a green oasis in the city and is a popular spot for locals to engage in outdoor activities. You can join the runners around the outer moat or take a gozabune sightseeing boat for another view of the castle. With an abundance of cherry, apricot, and plum trees, the park promises beautiful displays of flowers in both spring and fall.
Walking the grounds of Osaka Castle is a must-do activity for visitors. The castle sits on a hill and towers above many contemporary office buildings, providing a stunning view of the cityscape. You can climb the stairs or take the elevator up to the observation deck at the top of the castle for a panoramic view. Inside the castle, there is a museum with over 10,000 historical artifacts that offer a deeper insight into the prominent role Osaka played in Japan’s history.
In addition to Osaka Castle, there are several other attractions to explore in the area. Nishinomaru Garden and the surrounding park offer more opportunities to enjoy nature and relax. Osakajo Hall is a large concert venue and event space that hosts many international headliners. The Osaka Museum of History provides an in-depth look at the city’s past, and the Mint Museum Osaka showcases the history of money in Japan.
In conclusion, Osaka Castle is a must-visit landmark in Osaka with a rich history and stunning architecture. The castle and its surrounding park offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, providing a chance to learn about Japan’s past and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to take in the picturesque views, Osaka Castle is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Address And Maps Location:
1-1 osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka-fu
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