Osaka Castle Park Must-Visit Destination in Japan for Tourists

Osaka Castle Park is a must-visit destination in Japan, offering a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern amenities that make it a standout attraction for tourists. Located in the heart of Osaka, this park provides a serene escape from the city's bustling streets.

History of Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle was originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi between 1583 and 1598, with the intention of making it the center of a unified Japan. However, the castle's history is marked by numerous destructions and reconstructions. After Hideyoshi's death, the castle was attacked and destroyed by Tokugawa troops in 1615. It was rebuilt by Tokugawa Hidetada in the 1620s but suffered another major setback when the main castle tower was struck by lightning and burnt down in 1665. The current ferro-concrete reconstruction of the castle tower was completed in 1931 and survived the air raids during World War II. Major repair works were undertaken to restore the castle's grandeur, with the latest renovations completed in the late 1990s.

The Castle and Its Grounds

The castle tower is now entirely modern on the inside, featuring an elevator for easy accessibility. It houses a museum that provides detailed insights into the castle's history and the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle is surrounded by secondary citadels, gates, turrets, impressive stone walls, and moats, which add to its historical charm.

Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Castle Park is a spacious oasis covering about two square kilometers. It offers plenty of green space, sport facilities, and a multi-purpose arena known as Osakajo Hall. The park is particularly famous for its cherry blossom viewing (hanami) during late March and early April, with over 3,000 cherry blossom trees. The Nishinomaru Garden, located within the park, is beautifully lit up during the cherry blossom season and features a tea house and the former Osaka Guest House.

Things to Do

• Visit the Castle Tower: Ascend to the top of the castle tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding park.
• Explore the Museum: The museum inside the castle tower offers a comprehensive look at the castle's history and the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
• Cherry Blossom Viewing: Enjoy the stunning display of cherry blossoms in the spring, which transforms the park into a vibrant pink wonderland.
• Nishinomaru Garden: Visit this beautifully lit garden during the cherry blossom season, which requires a small admission fee.
• Boat Cruise: Take a sightseeing boat cruise in the castle moat, reminiscent of the luxury boats used by emperors and feudal lords in the past.

Nearby Attractions

• Osaka Museum of History: Located at the southwest corner of Osaka Castle Park, this museum provides additional insights into Osaka's history and is a nice add-on to a castle visit.
• Naniwa-no-Miya Palace Ruins: A short walk from Osaka Castle, these ruins offer another urban green space that is less crowded and perfect for relaxation.
• Cool Japan Park Osaka: This theater facility and entertainment hub, located inside Osaka Castle Park, showcases local and international shows across various genres.

Practical Information

• Getting There: Osaka Castle is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest JR station is Osakajokoen Station on the JR Loop Line, and the closest subway stations are Tanimachi Yonchome Station along the Tanimachi and Chuo subway lines.
• Opening Hours: The castle is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours during peak seasons like cherry blossom viewing and summer holidays.
• Admission: The regular admission fee is around 600 yen for adults, with free admission for junior high school students and younger children.

Places to Eat and Stay

• Restaurants: The Tanimachi area near the castle offers a variety of reasonably priced restaurants, including Shuhari, which serves moderate-priced soba noodles.
• Hotels: For budget-friendly options, Hotel the Lutheran is a good choice, located just a minute's walk from Tanimachi-Yonchome Station. For family-friendly accommodations, Hotel Keihan Kyobashi Grande offers larger rooms and convenient access to shopping and dining options.

Osaka Castle Park is a multifaceted destination that combines historical significance with modern amenities, making it an essential visit for any tourist in Osaka.