When I arrived at Osaka Castle Park, the first thing that caught my eye was the majestic Osaka Castle tower! The park is truly expansive, with impressive stone walls, a moat, and large green spaces along the way, giving you a real sense of history as you walk around.
Although I didn't visit during cherry blossom season, the smaller crowds actually made it easier to take a leisurely walk and snap photos. Seeing the old Osaka Castle blend with the modern cityscape had a unique charm.
Kohfukuji Temple
This temple was first built as a private residence of Fujiwara no Kamatari in Yamashina-suehara of Yamashiro-no-kuni (current Kyoto prefecture) and named Yamashina-dera, and later, Fujiwara no Fuhito decided to relocate to the current place at the time of the establishment of the Heijo Ⅽapital in 710, and the temple was renamed Kohfukuji.
What impressed me most about Kohfukuji Temple was seeing the ancient temple and Nara deer together in the same scene! Admiring the majestic five-story pagoda and traditional architecture while watching deer leisurely strolling nearby really felt uniquely Nara.
Ebisu Bridge
Ebisu Bridge, which is said to have been constructed almost simultaneously with the excavation of the Dotonbori River.
Ebisu Bridge is located in Osaka's Dotonbori area and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. From the bridge, you can take in the lively Dotonbori River, with many restaurants, shops, and huge signs on both sides. The most famous is the familiar Glico Running Man sign.
Tower of Osaka Castle
Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens.
It was my first time visiting Osaka Castle, and even from a distance, the castle tower looked truly imposing! After entering Osaka Castle Park, the expansive greenery, impressive stone walls, and moat created a strong sense of history.
Standing near the castle tower and taking in the view of the entire castle, the contrast between the historic architecture and modern Osaka cityscape was especially striking.
