Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is a historical landmark located in Osaka, Japan, and stands as one of the country’s most renowned castles. Situated in the heart of Osaka city, it is celebrated for its grand architecture and rich history.
Constructed at the end of the 16th century, Osaka Castle was built by the Japanese military commander Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It features a flatland castle design surrounded by wide moats, forming a formidable defense system. One of its most distinctive features is the main tower, adorned with walls covered in gold leaf, radiating a majestic and splendid atmosphere.
The present-day Osaka Castle was reconstructed in 1931, preserving the essential style and appearance from the time of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Inside the castle, exhibits showcase the history of the Toyotomi family and Osaka Castle, displaying artifacts and weapons from the era of Hideyoshi. Additionally, Osaka Castle Park has become a popular leisure and cherry blossom viewing spot for locals and tourists alike. Each spring, thousands of cherry blossoms bloom around the castle, attracting a multitude of visitors to admire the picturesque scenery.
Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle is located within Osaka Castle Park, and there are four subway stations surrounding the park, making it easily accessible. Many visitors choose to approach from Tanimachi Yonchome or Morinomiya stations. The park is adorned with numerous trees, including approximately 3,000 cherry blossom trees, 1,200 plum trees, and a vast area of maple trees, drawing crowds of flower enthusiasts during both spring and autumn. The Nishinomaru Garden within the park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
HOKOKU-JINJA
Hokoku-jinja is a compact Shinto shrine situated in the southern part of Osaka Castle Park, nestled within the confines of the moats. Devoted to the renowned warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the shrine attracts numerous visitors exploring Osaka-jo’s keep and locals participating in annual events like weddings or traditional matsuri street festivals.
Osaka Castle Main Tower
The Osaka Castle Main Tower is the central structure of Osaka Castle in Japan, featuring a towering five-story design. The exterior walls are adorned with layers of gold leaf, creating a dazzling golden sheen in the sunlight. Inside the main tower, there is a museum showcasing the history and artifacts of Osaka Castle. The exhibits include samurai armor, war relics, and items related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It’s important to note that photography is restricted in certain areas within the museum.
Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat
The Osaka Castle Gozabune is a traditional Japanese pleasure boat, meticulously recreated with inspiration from Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s ‘Hofuru Maru.’ Boatmen guide visitors along the protective moat of Osaka Castle, providing a 20-minute tour narrating the history of Osaka Castle. It is advisable to purchase tickets for the Osaka Castle Gozabune at least 20 minutes in advance, and those with an Osaka Amazing Pass or Osaka e-PASS can exchange them for tickets free of charge by presenting the card or voucher.
Osaka Castle Discount Information
For sightseeing in Osaka, many people prefer using either the Osaka Amazing Pass or the Osaka e-Pass. The main difference lies in the facilities covered by each. The Osaka Amazing Pass includes admission to Osaka Castle Main Tower, Nishinomaru Garden, and the Osaka Castle Pleasure Boat. On the other hand, the Osaka e-Pass covers only the Osaka Castle Pleasure Boat.
| Osaka Amazing Pass(transportation pass) | Contents | Osaka e-Pass(e-Pass) |
| O | Transportation at on additional charge | X |
| 2,800yen | Price (1-day Pass) | 2,000yen |
| 3,600yen | Price (2-day Pass) | 2,500yen |
| Free entrance using the Pass | How to use | Free entrance with a QR-code |
| More than 40 facilities including the Osaka Castle | Facilities available for Free | More than 20 facilities including tTsutenkaku |
| Main Tower、Gozabune Boat、Nishinomaru Garden | Free Facilities at Osaka Castle | Gozabune Boat |
| Tourist Information Centers, Stations, Hotels, and More in Osaka | Sales Locations | Online Travel Sites |
| Click here to enter | Official Website | Click here to enter |
