Experience the History and Nature of Japan’s Three Great Castles! Your Guide to Touring Osaka Castle

Originally built on the site of Ishiyama Hongan-ji Temple, Osaka Castle's construction began in 1583 under the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who aimed to unify Japan.
The castle was completed in 1585, designed on a grand scale with luxurious decorations to showcase his power. However, it fell in 1615 during the Summer Siege of Osaka.
The Tokugawa shogunate rebuilt the castle in 1629, but the castle tower was destroyed by lightning in 1665.
During the Meiji Restoration, it was again destroyed in the conflict between the shogunate forces and the new government army, after which the site became a military facility.
In 1931, Osaka Castle was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens. A major renovation took place between 1995 and 1997, leading to the castle's present state.

The castle tower, known as the symbol of Osaka Castle and a registered tangible cultural property, is a must-see.
Standing at approximately 55 meters tall, it features striking Golden Dolphin-like fish on the roof and cranes painted on the walls.
As a prime example of castle architecture designed for defense, the castle tower offers not only an impressive exterior but also numerous attractions inside.
From the observation deck on the 8th floor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka city.
Floors 2 to 7 house exhibits related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Osaka Castle, along with valuable cultural artifacts from the period, providing a deep dive into history.
After sunset, the castle tower is illuminated, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere different from the daytime.

The Sakuramon Gate serves as the main entrance to the central area of Osaka Castle (the Honmaru). This gate, designed in the Korai-mon Gate style, features a smaller roof to enhance its defensive capabilities, and its doors are made of heavy iron.
The imposing large stones on either side of the gate, named the "Dragon Stone" and the "Tiger Stone," are also quite impressive.
The view of the castle tower from Sakuramon Gate is particularly beautiful, making it a popular spot for photography.
The current Sakuramon Gate, rebuilt in 1887, is designated as an Important Cultural Property due to its rarity and historical significance.

The Otemon Gate, serving as the main entrance to Osaka Castle, was built in 1628 by the Tokugawa shogunate.
Like the Sakuramon Gate, it is constructed in the Korai-mon Gate style.
Together with the earthen walls on both sides (Otemon North Wall and Otemon South Wall), it is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
A notable feature of the Otemon Gate is its "column underpinning" technique.
The east and west sides use a convex "ari-tsugi" joint, while the north and south sides use a mountain-shaped "sogi-tsugi" joint, resulting in a complex interlocking mechanism that appears seamless from any angle.
This sophisticated joinery technique is unique to the Otemon Gate, making it a rare and valuable example of Japanese craftsmanship. Be sure to witness this remarkable technique with your own eyes.

Built in 1620, the Sengan-yagura Turret, along with the Inui-yagura Turret, is the oldest structure at Osaka Castle and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
The Sengan-yagura Turret played a crucial role in defending the Otemon Gate from enemies approaching from the north by shooting arrows.
The structure features various defensive innovations, such as lattice windows and iron plate openings (small holes for attacking enemies). These intricate details are worth noting.
Please be aware that access to the interior is restricted outside of special public viewing periods, and tickets are required for entry.

Located in the northwest of Osaka Castle Park, near the Otemon Gate, is the Nishinomaru Garden.
This garden features the remains of a palace (the former residence of the castle lord) and several turrets. Nishinomaru Garden is counted among the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots" in Japan, making it an ideal location for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
With approximately 300 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino, set against the backdrop of the castle tower, the sight is truly breathtaking.
The serene and tranquil atmosphere allows visitors to fully appreciate the historical scenery.

Located within the multipurpose complex "MIRAIZA OSAKA-JO" with a view of Osaka Castle's main tower, this bar celebrates "Konamon," the representative local food of Osaka. The goal was to have both domestic and international visitors experience and enjoy this local delicacy. The name "Rikyu" pays homage to Sen no Rikyu, a tea master from the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600) who is said to have perfected "Wabi-cha" and is even sometimes considered the originator of Konamon.

Located within Osaka Castle Park, this pancake specialty café offers a unique experience with their “fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth” pancakes, made fresh to order for a delightful taste sensation.

Located in Osaka Castle Park is the renovated historic building complex, "MIRAIZA OSAKA-JO". On its second floor is "CROSSFIELD with TERRACE LOUNGE", offering dishes based on a modern Italian theme. With the classical and grand ambiance of the building, coupled with the magnificent view of Osaka Castle right before your eyes, it's a prime spot to enjoy exquisite Italian dishes.

A standard sightseeing boat in the aquatic city of Osaka that takes you to Osaka Castle and Nakanoshima! A 40-minute cruise along the Okawa River, which runs through the center of Osaka. The area along the Okawa River is lush with greenery and lined with retro architecture, providing a tasteful view of the city.

The Mint Museum converted a building originally built as a thermal power plant in 1911 (Meiji 44). The brick exterior was maintained throughout the transformation to this date. In 1969, the museum opened to the public to display valuable coins and other items stored by the Mint. Later, with the motto of "a people-friendly, environmentally friendly, and attractive museum," the museum introduced the latest techniques to its exhibits and facilities to make it more accessible. As a result, the museum underwent a major renovation and reopened in April 2009.

This shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning. The shrine has been known as "Tenjin-san of Tenma" by the people of Osaka since ancient times, and since its establishment in 949, people have entrusted it with all kinds of wishes, including those for plague, learning, and entertainment. During the exam season, the shrine is crowded with students preparing for exams.