Osaka Castle: A Must-Visit Landmark in Osaka

🏯 Osaka Castle (大阪城, Osaka Castle) Osaka Castle was originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi during Japan's Sengoku period as part of his efforts to unify the country. It was later destroyed during the Osaka Campaign and rebuilt during the Edo period, serving as a key base for governing western Japan. The current structure, reconstructed in 1931 using reinforced concrete, has become a symbolic landmark of Osaka. ⸻ 🕰️ Operating Hours and Admission Fees • Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission: 4:30 PM) • Closed: Year-end holidays (December 28 – January 1) • Admission Fees: - Adults: 600 yen - High school and university students: 600 yen - Middle school students and younger: Free (with student ID) - ※ Starting spring 2025, adult admission will increase to 1,200 yen. ⸻ 🚆 How to Get to Osaka Castle • JR Osaka Loop Line: Get off at Osakajokoen Station, about a 15-minute walk. • Osaka Metro Chuo Line: Get off at Morinomiya Station, about a 15-minute walk. • Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line: Get off at Tanimachi Yonchome Station, about a 15-minute walk. ⸻ 🏰 Highlights of Osaka Castle • Tenshukaku (Main Tower): An 8-story tower housing a museum dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of the Sengoku period. The observation deck at the top offers panoramic views of Osaka city. • Osaka Castle Park: A sprawling park covering approximately 2 km², famous for its cherry blossoms during spring. Visitors can also enjoy scenic spots like Nishinomaru Garden and the plum tree grove. • Gozabune Boat Ride: Traditional boats that operate along the castle's moat, offering a unique perspective of the castle. ⸻ 🌸 Seasonal Highlights • Spring: Renowned for cherry blossom viewing (hanami), attracting numerous visitors. • Autumn: A great time for a stroll as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. • Winter: Enjoy the illuminated night views and festive lighting displays.