From March - November
Pre-booking Highly Recommended
Pre-booking tickets online is highly recommended as the line for door sales can exceed 30+ minutes. Pre-purchasing online with instant confirmation allows you to skip ahead of the queue and see the Osaka Castle sooner.
Book NowOsaka Castle, also known as Osaka-jo in Japanese, is a historic and iconic landmark located in Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan. It is one of Japan’s most famous castles and holds significant historical and cultural importance, and today is a popular tourist destination in Osaka.
The castle was originally constructed began in 1583 and took several years to complete, by the Shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He intended it to be a symbol of his power and a fortified residence.
Osaka Castle is known for its imposing appearance, featuring a distinctive white exterior with gold detailing. The castle’s design blends both defensive features and aesthetic elements. The interior of the castle has been transformed into a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the surrounding region.
Osaka Castle has faced destruction and damage due to fires, wars, and other factors throughout its history. As a result, it has undergone multiple reconstructions and renovations over the centuries. The current main tower is a reconstruction built in 1931 using concrete and modern construction techniques, while still maintaining the original appearance and design. While damaged in World Was II, this is the oldest iteration of the castle to date, with the previous two iterations only managing to stay together for less than 35 years each.
The castle’s keep houses a museum with exhibits that detail the history of Osaka Castle, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and the surrounding region.
Osaka Castle is situated within a spacious park known as Osaka Castle Park. The park features expansive lawns, cherry blossom trees, and various walking paths, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
During the cherry blossom season in spring, the park becomes particularly picturesque, attracting numerous visitors who come to enjoy hanami (flower viewing) picnics beneath the cherry blossoms.
Hours and Admission
- 9:00am-5:00pm (Final entry at 4:30pm)
- 600JPY
- Official Website
Accessing Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle can easily be accessed from Morinomiya Station if you are coming in from the south of the city, or Osakajokoen Station if you are travelling from Osaka Station. From Osaka Station, Osakajokoen Station is only 10 minutes on the Osaka Loop Line train, costing 170JPY one way, or free with the JR Pass.
Both stations are located on the Osaka Loop Line, and are both about a 5-10 minute walk from the base of the castle keep.
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Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience. Read More…
Forget the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for every journey. The JR Pass offers exceptional value for money, available in flexible durations ranging from 7 to 21 days, allowing you to tailor your travel experience to suit your itinerary. Read More…
Where To Stay
Hotel New Otani Osaka
Hotel with views of Osaka Castle and convenient connections for easy exploring.
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Imperial Hotel Osaka
Classy hotel centrally located with stunning views of the city and excellent service.
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Via Inn Prime Osaka Kyobashi
Modern riverside hotel with great views located near the popular Kyobashi station.
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