Osaka Castle 大阪城 Osakajo
A magnificent white fortress that screams “I’m historically significant!” while technically being about as authentic as your local Sushi restaurant’s wasabi. Osaka Castle is a concrete reconstruction from 1931, but don’t let that stop you from appreciating this iconic symbol of Osaka that dominates the skyline with all the subtlety of a group of American tourists on the metro.
Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle was destroyed, rebuilt, burned down, struck by lightning, and bombed – making it the architectural equivalent of a cat. The current iteration houses a museum spanning eight floors with historical exhibits, armor, and screens showing dramatic reenactments of samurai battles with special effects that range from “surprisingly well-done” to “unintentionally hilarious.”
Getting there:
- Tanimachi 4-chome Station (Tanimachi and Chuo Lines)
- Osakajokoen Station (JR Loop Line)
- 15–20 minute walk from either station
When to visit: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30). Castle grounds and park open 24/7.
Admission: 600 JPY for castle museum, park grounds free
Bonus tip! Visit during cherry blossom season when approximately 4,000 cherry trees throughout the grounds transform the place into a pink wonderland. Or come in autumn when the castle is lit up dramatically against red maple leaves. You just missed cherry blossom season?! Maybe just enjoy the museum then.