Discover the Majestic Osaka Castle: A Timeless Treasure
Experience the historical grandeur of Osaka Castle, a stunning fortress reflecting Japan's rich heritage and culture, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Osaka Castle stands as a symbol of Japan's storied history, attracting tourists with its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings. Originally built in the 16th century, the castle has been reconstructed and restored over the years, standing proud against the backdrop of Osaka's modern skyline. Visitors can explore the castle's intricate design, which features a five-story main tower adorned with gold leaf, and learn about its significance during the unification of Japan under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle grounds are equally impressive, with expansive gardens that bloom with cherry blossoms in spring, making it a picturesque spot for leisurely strolls and photography. Inside the castle, a museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that narrate the history of Osaka and its castle. Interactive displays provide insights into the castle's past, including tales of samurai warriors and the battles that shaped the region. The top floor offers breathtaking views of the city, allowing visitors to appreciate the juxtaposition of historical and contemporary landscapes. Surrounding the castle, the lush Nishinomaru Garden offers a serene escape, where visitors can relax and take in the beauty of nature. For those seeking a deeper connection to culture, seasonal events and festivals often take place in and around the castle, providing a vibrant atmosphere that highlights traditional Japanese customs. From the tranquil gardens to the rich history encapsulated within the castle walls, Osaka Castle promises an enriching experience that resonates with all who visit.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season for breathtaking views and stunning photo opportunities.
- Consider arriving early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Explore the surrounding park for a complete experience, including picnic spots and walking trails.
- Check the schedule for special events, such as festivals or nighttime illuminations, for a unique visit.
- Don’t forget to try local street food at nearby stalls for a true taste of Osaka.
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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Train
If you are starting from Osaka Station, take the JR Loop Line (Osaka Loop Line) towards Kyobashi. The journey takes about 10 minutes. Get off at Osakajokoen Station, which is the closest station to Osaka Castle. After exiting the station, follow the signs to Osaka Castle, which will take you approximately 15 minutes on foot. You will walk through a park area, and the castle will be visible as you approach.
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Subway
From Namba Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line towards Senri-Chuo and transfer at Umeda Station to the Yotsubashi Line. Ride towards Nishi-Nakajima-Minamikata and transfer again at Hommachi Station to the Chuo Line. Get off at Tanimachi 4-chome Station. From there, take Exit 1 and walk towards Osaka Castle, which will take about 20 minutes through a pleasant park.
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Bus
From Namba or Umeda area, you can take the Osaka City Bus #62 or #97. Both buses head towards Osaka Castle. The journey will take around 30 minutes. Get off at the Osakajo Koen-mae stop, which is right at the entrance to Osaka Castle Park. From there, follow the signs leading you to the castle itself, which is a short walk away.
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Walking
If you're already in the Chuo Ward area, you can simply walk to Osaka Castle. Start from the nearest subway station such as Tanimachi 4-chome or Osakajokoen Station. From Tanimachi 4-chome, head north through the park, which should take about 15 minutes. If coming from Osakajokoen Station, walk directly towards the main entrance of Osaka Castle, which will take about 10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Osaka Castle
- Osaka Castle Main Tower (Osaka Castle Museum)
- Kimmeisui Well Roof (Osaka Castle)
- Site of Tenshushita-shikirimon Gate
- Kakushi-kuruwa Bailey
- Osaka Castle Park
- Bullet marks on the Yamazato-maru Bailey's stone walls
- Japanese garden
- Miraiza Osaka-Jo
- Gokuraku-bashi Bridge (Osaka Castle)
- Huge Stones at Sakuramon-masugata Square (Takoishi)
- Osakajo Gozabune Pier
- Sakuramon Gate
- Nishinomaru Garden
- Site of Haunted House
- Osaka Castle’s Plum Grove
Landmarks nearby to Osaka Castle
- World Peace & Federation Statue
- Site of South Gate of CHODOIN, part of the Imperial Naniwa Palace
- Nakanoshima Park
- Shinsaibashi
- Shingonzaka
- Osaka City Datum
- Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
- Tombori River walk
- Shinsaibashi Shopping Street Promotion Association
- Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street
- Kitanosaurus
- スパイダーマンの館
- Ukiyo Koji
- 旧大阪毎日新聞大阪本社 旧社屋玄関 玄関ポーチ
- Hep Five Ferris wheel