Osaka Castle: A Symbol of Osaka's Rich History
Explore Osaka Castle: A historic landmark with a museum, gardens, and panoramic views of Osaka, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
Osaka Castle (Ōsakajō) is more than just a beautiful structure; it's a symbol of Osaka's rich history and resilience. Construction began in 1583 by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, designed to be a strategic military stronghold and to impress both allies and enemies. The castle was intended to be the center of a unified Japan. Over the centuries, Osaka Castle has been damaged and destroyed multiple times due to war, lightning, and fire. The main tower was rebuilt in 1931 after being destroyed by lightning in 1665. During World War II, air raids damaged the reconstructed main keep. The castle underwent a major restoration in 1997 to restore it to its Edo-era splendor. Today, Osaka Castle Park spans approximately 106 hectares, offering green space, sports facilities, and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the castle tower, which houses a museum with over 10,000 historical artifacts. They can also visit the Nishinomaru Garden, a lawn garden with 600 cherry trees, offering stunning views of the castle tower. The Osaka Castle Toyotomi Stone Wall Museum, opened in 2025, exhibits original stone walls covered up by the Tokugawa shogunate. The park is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the long lines, especially during peak season.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot within the castle grounds.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, bringing an umbrella or sunscreen as needed.
- Enter through the Otemon Gate for the best view of Osaka Castle.
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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Public Transport
To reach Osaka Castle via public transport, several options are available. The closest JR station is Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line, about a 10-minute, ¥180 ride from JR Osaka Station. Alternatively, take the Tanimachi or Chuo subway lines to Tanimachi Yonchome Station, followed by a 15-minute walk. From the Osaka Bus Terminal, bus numbers #10, #21, #31, #46, or #62 will drop you off at the Osaka-jo koen bus stop, a 10-minute walk from the castle. Ensure you have a valid travel pass or purchase a ticket for the relevant train, subway, or bus line. Prices vary based on distance and type of transport, but expect to pay around ¥160-¥200 for a short subway or JR ride.
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity, walking to Osaka Castle is a pleasant option. From Tanimachi Yonchome Station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. From Osakajokoen Station, it's about a 10-minute walk through Osaka Castle Park to the castle. The park is free to enter. Follow the signs and enjoy the scenery as you approach the castle. Note that the final bridge to the keep can be a bit steep.
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Taxi
Taxis are a convenient way to reach Osaka Castle directly. From Osaka Station, a taxi ride to Osaka Castle typically costs between ¥1500 and ¥2000, depending on traffic. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that there may be additional fees for highway tolls if the taxi uses expressways. Parking is available near Osaka Castle, with all-day parking costing around ¥1200. However, parking may be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
