Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area


2018.05.28

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

  • South of the Yodo River, Osaka Castle sits in an oasis of greenery in the center of the city. Originally constructed in the 16th century, this castle has become one of Japan’s most recognizable castles. Throughout its history, the castle has played an important role in the region and Japan as a whole. Today, it stands as a monument to old Japan and has made the rounds in popular culture by appearing on multiple TV shows and even being destroyed by Godzilla once (but just in a movie).

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    There are several buildings designated as important cultural properties, but the main castle tower is the most eye catching structure. These days, the castle functions as a museum for visitors. Each floor contains art, dioramas, and interesting information about the castle’s history. On the top floor of the museum, the deck offers an amazing view of the surrounding area. One thing to keep in mind is that people will be lining up to use the elevator, but you can bypass the line by taking the stairs. It’s only eight floors, so walking will save you some valuable time. Entrance to the castle itself is only 600 yen for adults and free for children under 15 years old.

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    The castle attracts many visitors who come to appreciate it for its historical significance and also those who come to enjoy the surrounding park. At two square kilometers, the park is often full of picnickers or people enjoying the cherry blossoms in the spring.

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    The high walls and moat surrounding the castle grounds protected the castle from invaders. Seeing the palace walls from the water is a unique and enjoyable way to experience the castle if you have time. Various pleasure boat companies offer tours around the castle for as little as 1,700 yen per person to as much as 7,500 yen per person with dinner served on the boat.

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    There are plenty of places to visit in the area. Right next to the castle, Landmark Square has a few choices if you’re looking for a place to eat or relax. The new Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace, which offers a great view of the castle and the surrounding area. This restaurant charges based on where you want to sit, so better views come with a higher price. There are two other restaurants in Landmark Square. Restaurant Raspberry is a French fusion restaurant that uses carefully selected local ingredients to create an ever changing menu that keeps guests coming back. The restaurant’s Moon Bar also has a long list of upscale cocktails you can enjoy in a meticulously decorated setting. Crossfield is another restaurant in the building that offers guests a gourmet European menu at affordable prices. Enjoy a white vegetable salad with Gorgonzola sauce and truffle oil or steak tartare prepared with tender, Japanese wagyu beef.

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area

    It’s easiest to get to the castle by train or subway. If you want to go by train, you can get from Osaka Station to Osakajokoen Station in just 10 minutes for about 160 yen. There’s also subway access if you get off at the Tanimachi 4 chome Station, but the subway is slightly less convenient since you’ll have to change lines a few times.

    Osaka Castle
    rating

    4.0

    7958 Reviews
    place
    Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Osakajou 1-1
    phone
    0669413044
    opening-hour
    9:00-17:00(Last entry16:30)
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    Osaka Castle Ticket

    ¥600

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    Update date:2024/04/27

    THE LANDMARK SQUARE OSAKA
    place
    大阪府大阪市中央区大阪城1-1 MIRAIZA OSAKA-JO
    phone
    0669417771
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    no image
    BLUE BIRDS ROOF TOP TERRACE
    rating

    3.5

    19 Reviews
    place
    Osaka Osaka-shi Chuo-ku Osakajo 1-1
    phone
    0669417100
    opening-hour
    【Lunch】12:00-17:00【Cafe】…
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    Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group

    北区梅田3丁目1番1号 Osaka

    Agoda
    • Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group
    • Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group
    • Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group
    • Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group
    • Hotel Granvia Osaka - JR Hotel Group
  • Osakajokoen
    place
    Osaka
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    Hotel New Otani Osaka

    1-4-1 Shiromi, Chuo-ku Osaka

    Agoda
    • Hotel New Otani Osaka
    • Hotel New Otani Osaka
    • Hotel New Otani Osaka
    • Hotel New Otani Osaka
    • Hotel New Otani Osaka

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