Visiting Osaka Castle, The Most Iconic Attraction in Osaka, Japan. — *Osaka’s most iconic landmark*

One of the most iconic landmarks of Osaka, Japan is of course, the Osaka Castle (or Osakajo in Japanese). Towering proudly over the heart of the city of Osaka, This historic landmark was once a showcase of power in ancient Japan. In modern day, the Osaka Castle Park is a great place to learn about Edo Japan and also a great place for a picnic during the spring cherry blossom season.

Despite Osaka having some amazing Japanese street food, as seen in places like Dotonbori and the Kuromon Ichiba Market, sometimes I just need to stop eating and actually explore the history and culture of the country I am in.

I’ve been to Osaka Castle a couple of times now and it’s a really beautiful place, This time around I went during the late Autumn season when the golden tree leaves are blanketing the grounds and a cool yet gentle breeze wafts through the air.

In this blog post, I’ll be taking you with me to explore everything you need to know about Osaka Castle, from the interiors of the main tower, to the best photo spots in the park, to the best seasons to visit to see the Sakura cherry blossoms. So make sure Osaka Castle is in your travel Itinerary, you won’t wanna miss it!

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The History of Osaka Castle

osaka castle history — *The text might be too small to read but don’t worry, I’ll explain it for you*

The current landmark that you see isn’t actually the original Osaka Castle, no the Japanese aren’t lying to you, it's just because the original construction was burned down and destroyed many times since the beginning of its construction in 1583.

The original Osaka Castle was commissioned in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, an ambitious warlord. Hideyoshi’s vision for the castle was for it to not only be a fortress but to also be a symbol of power, strength, and more importantly as symbol for unity in the new era of Japan during the late Sengoku Period. Thus Osaka Castle was to be located on a hill overlooking the entirety of the city of Osaka.

When the project was finally complete in 1597, Osaka Castle was at the time, one of the largest and most majestic castles in Japan, with its massive stone battlements and impenetrable fortress layout.

The Siege of Osaka and the Destruction of Osaka Castle

siege of osaka castle 1614 1615 — *Artwork depicting brave samurai warriors battling it out in the Siege of Osaka*

The Siege of Osaka in 1614-1615 saw the complete destruction of the Osaka Castle and the collapse of the Toyotomi family by the Tokugawa Shogunate, thus bringing forth the beginning of the Edo Period.

However despite the carnage, the Tokugawa Shogunate eventually decided to rebuild Osaka Castle in the following decades as a show of power. Though the castle battlements was reinforced and structures were rebuilt, the original grandeur was lost. What a shameful display.

Modern Restoration Efforts of Osaka Castle

osaka castle showa era — *A picture of Osaka Castle around the Showa Era, post World War 2*

Now despite the relative peace of the Edo period, Osaka Castle still saw many challenges and the fortress was damaged countless times by fires, earthquakes, and especially bombings during the second world war where the Osaka Castle was turned into a military stronghold during the Meiji Restoration.

Fast forward a bit, and the Osaka castle was rebuilt in 1931 with stronger materials like concrete, and in 1997 it underwent major renovations to bring it up to modern construction standards.

For all you warmongers out there, you’ll be disappointed to learn that the Osaka Castle has been repurposed from a fortress to a museum dedicated to showcasing the history of Osaka.

This version of the Osaka Castle is what you currently see today if you were to visit. As you can see, a very long and tumultuous history…

The Osaka Castle Main Tower

If you visit Osaka Castle you can’t miss the main tower. It’s literally the building that everyone gravitates towards.

The Main Tower (known as Tenshukaku) is a five story structure clad in white stucco walls with the roofs being emerald green. Lining the edges of the tower are gold accents and decorations that give the whole tower an elegant feel. I know it sounds weird but looking at the Osaka Castle Main Towers feels like I’m catching a glimpse of a divine princess. Somethings about the architecture and decorations feel so graceful.

Inside are 8 floors which are showcases and exhibits for the museum.

The Osaka Castle Museum and Observation Deck

osaka castle museum inside — *The interior of the Osaka Castle Museum, you can see a miniature display of the Siege of Osaka*

Inside the Main Tower is the Osaka Castle Museum dedicated to showcasing the history of the fortress as well as the history of the city. There’s a collection of historical artifacts, samurai armor and weaponry, a detailed model of the castle’s layout, and even an observation deck on the upper floors where you can take in a breathtaking view of the Osaka cityscape.

In all honesty, the museum was OK, if you’re a history buff you will probably enjoy it. The problem is there is always a long line, mostly students on a field trip, I wouldn’t say it’s particularly worth it if you happen to find yourself in a long line.

The observation deck is nice though, being able to take in the cool breeze while admiring the city of Osaka, you’ll be able to see many of the City’s iconic landmarks from this viewpoint such as the Umeda Sky Building, and also the Osaka police station which has this block-y sort of edgy sci-fi architecture.

If you’re planning to visit the Osaka Castle, the main tower is open every day from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM with the last entry being 4:30 PM, also there is an entrance fee to enter the tower which is around 1,200 JPY (8.50 USD) for adults and 600 JPY (4.25 USD) for students (aged 16-22, younger free entry).

Want to skip waiting in line? You can purchase a ticket to Osaka Castle in advance here!

Want to Stay Near Osaka Castle?

dormy inn osaka hotel onsen natural spring — *Could you resist dipping your toes in this onsen at Dormy Inn Osaka? I think not :)*

If you’re in Osaka for a while it’s worth it to find a hotel near Osaka Castle as the landmark is in the center of the city which has great access to public transportation options, mainly the JR train and subway, making it an ideal place to travel to different attractions throughout Osaka. Here are several great hotels near Osaka Castle that I recommend:

Dormy Inn Osaka Hot Spring - Short walk from Osaka Castle, features a rooftop onsen and easy access to nearby attractions like Nakanoshima Park and Dotonbori.
APA Hotel Osaka Temmabashi Ekimae - Famous business brand hotels, modern and comfortable rooms. Great for budget travelers
Hotel Monterey La Soeur Osaka - Located near Kyobashi Station, this hotel offers both comfort and convenience, with easy access to Osaka Castle and the rest of the city.

Pro Tip: Want to save money on your stay? Compare prices on Booking.com and Agoda to get the best deals!

Exploring Osaka Castle Park

osaka castle transport — *I wouldn’t want to walk in the scorching heat either…*

Firstly if you are spending a considerable amount of time traveling to various attractions in Osaka, I recommend you purchase an Amazing Osaka Pass. It’s basically day (or two) pass that gives you unlimited free access to public transportation, and free entry to many of Osaka’s attractions. The Amazing Osaka Pass also includes coupons and guidebooks for you to use. The pass will run you 20 USD for a day pass and 25 USD for 2 days.

Alright, Osaka Castle is not just a main tower but a large complex with various parks and points of interests. The entrance to the Castle park is quite a walk away from the Main tower, the building where al the tourists go to, but don’t worry as there are little go-cart things that drive around to bring you to the castle.

You’ll have to purchase a ticket for these go-carts though, and the ticket is one way. I don’t quite remember how much is the fare, perhaps around 600 JYP. It’s worth it if you think the walk will be tired but other than that, I’d say that the go-cart feels like a tourist trap…

And walking through the Osaka Castle Park is quite enjoyable anyways.

osaka castle park map — *This place isn’t just a castle, there’s so many random things to be found here as well*

There are 4 main entrances to Osaka Castle Park, two entrances in the front and two in the back, I recommend you enter through the Otemon Gate or the Tamatsukuri Gate which is located on the bottom left or right if you look at the picture of the map above.

Starting your visit through one of these gates will lead you on a path that gives you a breathtaking frontal view of the Osaka Castle Main Tower,

As you explore the stroll your way though the Osaka Castle grounds, you’ll come across a number of interesting points of interests. From the remains of ancient turrets to a tranquil Japanese teahouse, blooming plum groves, and even a traditional martial arts training hall. Take your time to explore the Osaka Castle Park sa there is much to explore, I spent a good 2-3 hours here just walking around and soaking in the atmosphere.

Picnics at the Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Garden

Nishinomaru Garden Osaka Castle — *More like a field rather than a garden, still a popular place for picnics during cherry blossom season*

The majority of the surrounding gardens and areas of the Osaka Castle Park is public space, although certain areas like the Nishinomaru Garden, a garden with 600 cherry blossoms, require you to pay a cheap entrance fee of 200 JPY.

If you come here during the cherry blossom season (March - April) you’ll definitely notice a lot of families and couples come here to have picnics, especially at Nishinomaru Garden, that’s because the Osaka Castle Park is one of the most popular places in Osaka to participate in “Hanami”, a traditional Japanese activity of just simply enjoying the beautiful flowers and the natural environment.

You can buy special Hanami boxed bento lunches to enjoy at these areas as well, if you are buying a bento be sure to get the mochi which are popular snacks during this time!

Unfortunately, I went way after the cherry blossoms bloomed so I did not get a chance to have a nice picnic, but I can imagine how romantic the atmosphere must be.

Entering Inner Walls of Osaka Castle

osaka castle park wall — *Imagine back in the medieval Japan, these walls must’ve been intimidating*

The Osaka Castle Main Tower is separated by another set of battlements here is where you can really see the imposing walls up close.

The massive granite walls of Osaka Castle consists of maybe hundreds of thousands of large and heavy stone bricks, some of which are among the largest in all of Japan. As I got up close to the walls, it’s hard not to feel dwarfed by their sheer scale. Imagine the sheer anxiety of a common foot soldier getting ready to scale these walls durin the Siege of Osaka in 1614.

No doubt these walls showcase the strategic and military importance of Osaka Castle.

osaka castle park entrance — *It’s like the Castle tower is judging you*

This secondary wall is also surrounded by a moat which is now empty, though in previous years you could get on a boat ride along the Osaka Castle moat.

Anyways, I want to highlight the layout of the walls and pathways, while taking a scenic walk to the main tower did you notice that the pathways are winding, like they’ not in a straigth line? That’s because it’s to make traversing and attacking the castle difficult for the enemy, a lot of paths lead to chokepoints or narrow corridors where the enemy is at a disadvantage. It’s just something cool to notice,

I love the aesthetics of the entrance to the Osaka Castle Main Tower by the way. As you are crossing the moat and walking through the large gate , you’ll see the Osaka Castle tower standing tall and perfectly center through the opening of the gate. No doubt this architectural design is intentional, very cool.

Best Photo Spots at Osaka Castle

Upon reaching the grounds of the Osaka Castle Main Tower, you’ll be at a large open area with plenty of space to take photos of the iconic landmark. This is also the best photo spot for the Osaka Castle.

Honestly, there is not much to do in this open area, you can take photos or sit down and relax under the tree. The main attraction is admiring the castle tower and exploring the insides.

As for the time of day, I’d say mid day is the best time, when the sun is directly above and illuminating the castle tower. If you come during the cherry blossom seasons then you’re in for a real treat with all the pink and crimson trees.

I spent about 10 minutes here just taking photos, not long.

The Miraiza Osaka-Jo Shopping Mall

osaka castle cafe — *I wonder about the history of this building, it’s so out of place…*

You’ll notice that off to the right of the Osaka Castle Main Tower is this European style fortress building that really contrasts the traditional Japanese architecture in the area. This is the Miraiza, a mini shopping mall full where you can sit down at cafes or browse for souvenirs. In 1931 the Miraiza served as an army headquarters during World War 2, now it has been renovated and no traces of it’s wartime usage is visible except for the structure itself.

There is a nice stall selling soft serve ice cream, a cafe selling coffee and snacks, souvenir shops selling your stereotypical touristy stuff like Ninja stars and samurai models. If you want to take a rest and enjoy a cup of coffee head over here, but be warned though, a lot of the coffee shops in there are cramp and packed full of tourists.

The Kaiyodo Figure Museum Miraiza Osaka Castle

On the basement floor of the Miraiza shopping center is the Kaiyodo Figure Museum. Now if you are an Otaku, or someone who loves Japanese media and merchandise you are gonna love this. There are over 3,000 figures on display here. All from various pop culture media like Evangelion, Godzilla, Ultraman, and other Anime shows that I don’t know the name of, sorry I’m not really into Anime.

At the end of the museum there is a gift shop where you can buy some figurines and models, as well as section of about 2 dozen Gachapon machines for you to test your luck on.

Despite not being a huge Anime fan, I still found the Kaiyodo Figure Museum very fun and interesting to walk through. I paint Warhammer 40K miniatures myself, so this museum is in the same vein as my interests.

Other Attractions Near Osaka Castle

dotonbori osaka japan — *The cyberpunk future is already here, and it’s in Dotonbori, Osaka*

While Osaka Castle is undoubtedly the main attraction of the city of Osaka, there are plenty of other noteworthy attractions that you should check out that are nearby. Most notably, Osaka is home to some of the best Japanese street food and nightlife in the country, there’s a reason why people from Osaka are known to be rowdy and energetic.

So after you are done exploring Osaka Castle, how about heading over to these other attractions:

Kuromon Ichiba Market - A must-visit for foodies, in my opinion better than Dotonbori. Fresh seafood, wagyu skewers, and sweet Japanese snacks. Amazing street food in Japan.
Universal Studios Japan - Fun and high octane rides, home to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, perfect for families and adrenaline junkies.
Dotonbori District - Dotonbori is Osaka’s famous neon-lit food, shopping, and entertainment district. A plate of Takoyaki is a MUST, and snapping a picture with the iconic Glico Running Man is also a MUST.

Details About Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of the most iconic attractions in Osaka, Japan and is a landmark in the area. I recommend coming here during the cherry blossom season when all the trees will be pink and the atmosphere is immaculate.

Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

Opening Hours: 9:00AM - 5:00PM | Mon - Sun

Entrance Fee: 1,200 JPY for adults, 600 JPY for students age 16-22, free entry for children under 15

How to get to Osaka Castle

I recommend taking the JR train to the Osakajokoen Station via the Osaka Loop Line, the station’s exit is right on the Osaka Castle Park and is only a 10 minute walk to the Castle Tower. However this will put you behind the Castle, and you’ll have to walk further if you want to enter through the front entrance.

Alternatively you can take the JR Train via the Chuo Line and exit at Morinomiya Station this will put you at the front right entrance to Osaka Castle Park, where you can enter through the front Tamatsukuri Gate which is one of the two gates I recommend entry from.

If you have a JR Pass or a JR West Pass, the Osaka Loop Line will be covered.

Looking for Things to Do in Osaka?

Amazing Osaka Pass - Enjoy must visit spots in Osaka hassle free
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass - Skip through long wait times at major attractions
Street Go Kart Experience - Ever wanted to play Mario Kart in real life?
Discounted Tickets - Browse a variety of attractions, tours, and transports all for a great price

Useful Resources for Traveling in Japan

Tourism Information - All the information you need when traveling in Japan
Pocket Wi-Fi - Important for staying connected on the go
JR Rail Pass (Whole of Japan) - Easy , cheap, and unlimited access to JR transports