Osaka Castle: A Journey Through Time
Explore the majestic Osaka Castle, a historical fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage.
Osaka Castle stands as a proud symbol of Japan's historical significance and architectural beauty. Constructed in the late 16th century, the castle played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the tumultuous Sengoku period. Today, it attracts millions of visitors each year who come to explore its stunning stone walls, intricate wooden interiors, and lush gardens that create a serene escape from the bustling city life. The castle is surrounded by a sprawling park, offering picturesque views during cherry blossom season and a peaceful retreat for a leisurely stroll. Inside, the castle houses a museum that details the history of Osaka and the castle itself, showcasing artifacts and informative displays that provide insight into the era's culture and battles. Visitors can climb to the top of the castle's main tower, where a panoramic view of the city awaits, providing a breathtaking backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes Osaka Castle a perfect destination for tourists seeking to experience Japan's rich heritage. Whether you are wandering through the gardens, learning about the castle's storied past, or simply enjoying the aesthetic beauty of the architecture, Osaka Castle promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the vibrant cherry blossoms in spring or the fiery foliage in autumn, as these seasonal changes only enhance the castle's allure.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Don't miss the museum inside the castle for fascinating insights into its history.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top of the castle.
- Explore the surrounding park, especially during cherry blossom season for breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Osaka Castle
- 1-1 Osakajo, Osaka, Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, JP
- +816-6941-3044
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Buzen, get onto the Oita Expressway (E10) heading towards Fukuoka. Continue on the expressway for approximately 90 km (around 1 hour) until you reach the junction for the Hanshin Expressway (E1). Merge onto the Hanshin Expressway (E1) towards Osaka. Follow signs to Osaka City and exit at the Osakajo exit. Once on the local roads, follow signs to Osaka Castle. There is paid parking available nearby at the Osaka Castle Park for around 600-1000 yen per day.
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Train
Start at Buzen Station and take the JR Nippo Line heading towards Kokura. After about 30 minutes, transfer at Kokura Station to the Shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Osaka Station. The Shinkansen ride will take approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at Osaka Station, transfer to the JR Loop Line. Take the train towards Osakajokoen Station (about 15 minutes). From Osakajokoen Station, it's a 15-minute walk to Osaka Castle. Be prepared for a total travel cost of around 4000-6000 yen including the Shinkansen and local train fares, depending on the type of Shinkansen selected.
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Bus
To travel by bus, head to the Buzen bus terminal and take a highway bus to Osaka. The journey will take approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic. Upon arrival at Osaka, you can take a local bus or taxi to Osaka Castle, which is about 15 minutes away from the main bus terminal. The bus fare will be around 3000-4000 yen one way.
Attractions Nearby to Osaka Castle
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Osaka Castle Main Tower (Osaka Castle Museum)
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Kimmeisui Well Roof (Osaka Castle)
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Site of Tenshushita-shikirimon Gate
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Kakushi-kuruwa Bailey
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Osaka Castle Park
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Bullet marks on the Yamazato-maru Bailey's stone walls
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Japanese garden
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Miraiza Osaka-Jo
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Gokuraku-bashi Bridge (Osaka Castle)
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Huge Stones at Sakuramon-masugata Square (Takoishi)
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Osakajo Gozabune Pier
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Sakuramon Gate
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Nishinomaru Garden
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Site of Haunted House
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Osaka Castle’s Plum Grove
Landmarks nearby to Osaka Castle
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World Peace & Federation Statue
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Site of South Gate of CHODOIN, part of the Imperial Naniwa Palace
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Nakanoshima Park
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Shinsaibashi
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Shingonzaka
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Osaka City Datum
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Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
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Tombori River walk
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Shinsaibashi Shopping Street Promotion Association
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Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street
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Kitanosaurus
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スパイダーマンの館
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Ukiyo Koji
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旧大阪毎日新聞大阪本社 旧社屋玄関 玄関ポーチ
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Hep Five Ferris wheel