Discover the Majestic Osaka Castle
Explore Osaka Castle, a stunning historical marvel surrounded by lush gardens, steeped in rich Japanese heritage and captivating architecture.
A brief summary to Osaka Castle
- 1-1 Osakajo, Osaka, Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, JP
- +816-6941-3044
Osaka Castle stands as a proud symbol of Japan's historical resilience and architectural beauty. Originally built in the late 16th century, this magnificent castle has undergone various restorations and now serves as a remarkable museum showcasing the history of the region. As you approach the castle, you'll be captivated by its grandeur, highlighted by the striking white walls and gold leaf decorations that glimmer under the sun. The surrounding Nishinomaru Garden offers a serene escape, with cherry blossoms in spring attracting countless visitors who come to enjoy picnics beneath the blooming trees. Inside the castle, you'll find a wealth of exhibits detailing the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle's founder, and the significant events that unfolded within its walls. The panoramic views from the top of the castle provide a breathtaking backdrop of Osaka city, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmonious blend of historical and modern architecture. Whether you explore the castle's interior or stroll through the expansive grounds, Osaka Castle offers an enriching experience that highlights the cultural significance of this historical site. Visiting Osaka Castle is not just about admiring its beauty; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the storied past of Japan. The castle's surrounding area is filled with shops and eateries, where you can taste local delicacies and purchase souvenirs. Make sure to allocate enough time to fully appreciate both the castle and its gardens, as the combination of history and nature creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season for a picturesque view of the castle surrounded by blooming sakura.
- Allocate at least half a day to explore both the castle and the surrounding gardens for a complete experience.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the castle and nearby attractions to save on admission fees.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the gardens are best enjoyed on a clear day.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking through the castle grounds and gardens.
Getting There
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Subway
If you're near Namba Station, take the Midosuji Line (red line) towards Sakai-sujihonmachi. Get off at Umeda Station, and transfer to the Tanimachi Line (purple line) towards Yaominami. Get off at Tanimachi 4-chome Station. From there, take Exit 1, and walk straight for about 10 minutes toward Osaka Castle.
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Train
From Osaka Station, take the JR Loop Line in the direction of Osakajokoen. Get off at Osakajokoen Station. Exit the station and head south toward Osaka Castle, which is about a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs for Osaka Castle.
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Bus
From Namba Station, take the Osaka City Bus #62 or #88 towards Osaka Castle. Get off at the Osakajo Koen-mae stop. The castle entrance will be directly in front of you.
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Walking
If you're in the vicinity of Namba or Shinsaibashi, you can walk to Osaka Castle. Start at Namba Station, head north towards the Dotonbori area, then take a left onto Sennichimae Ave. Continue straight until you reach the Osaka Castle Park entrance. It will take approximately 30-40 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
- Nishinomaru Garden
- Sakuramon Gate
- Site of Haunted House
- Osaka Castle’s Plum Grove
Landmarks nearby to Osaka Castle
- World Peace & Federation Statue
- Naniwa-no-Miya-Ato Park (Naniwanomiya Palace Site Park)
- Mint Museum
- 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