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Osaka Castle of the Shogun, Japan

Osaka Castle

It was first built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hidayoshi, the powerful shogun in Osaka. With the cooperation of daimyo across the country who enlisted tens of thousands of labor to build this castle Therefore, it took only 3 years to build, but 30 years later, it was destroyed by the army of the shogun Kokugawa Iyeyasu who came to power.

However, in later times, this castle has been renovated several times. The foundation of the castle is still strong with a huge clump of stones until 1997 when Osaka Castle was completely renovated. with a beautiful exterior It is the most modern castle in Japan. because inside there is even an elevator up to the top floor.

Osaka Castle has 8 floors and is a museum showing the history of the castle. Especially in the era of Shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi who built the castle for the first time. It is presented with modern technology such as storytelling through the screen. which shoots a laser beam into the scene as an animation, making it not boring Each floor showcases a different story. The photos of the castle in each season and each period on display look different and beautiful.

Up to the top floor, in addition to the souvenir shop, there is also a surrounding terrace overlooking the city of Osaka as well. Overlooking the Ogawa River on both sides, full of cherry blossoms See the HEP FIVE Ferris wheel in the Umeda area

Looking down around the castle in that expansive grounds There is a moat that surrounds the castle, a sakura garden, a plum garden that adds to the beauty of the castle in every season. On the four sides of the castle are statues of golden dragon fish.

Back down, around the area, there are other places to walk around, such as Nishinomary Garden where cherry blossoms can be seen (entrance fee is 350 yen), Osakajokoen Garden or something to eat where there are desserts containing cherry blossoms for sale. There is a sample to try before buying.

If it’s delicious, then you can buy snacks packed in beautiful paper boxes that are already worth buying. There are many restaurants. Some shops only accept tour groups. There are also many stalls selling Takoyaki, Yakisoba in foam boxes for you to find a seat to eat by yourself. Water can also be bought from a vending machine.

Before leaving, don’t forget to visit the Time Capsule placed in front of the castle. It is a capsule containing a digital storage medium that chronicles Osaka’s hosting of the EXPO in 1970 and is scheduled to be re-opened 100 years from now. Another modern one like no other.

Getting to Osaka Castle

• Take Subway Tanimachi Line, get off at Temmabashi Station, Exit 3 or Tanimachi4-chome Station, walk for 10 minutes.
• Take the JR Osaka Loop Line, get off at Osakajakoen or Morinomiya Station, walk for about 10 minutes.

Opening hours for visitors: 09.00 – 17.00

Admission to Osaka Castle is 600 yen for adults, and free for those under 15 years old.