
Hotels near Osaka Castle
Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan
Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo) was first built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the warlord who unified Japan. The current main keep is a 1931 ferroconcrete reconstruction (with elevators and air-conditioning) of the original which burned down in 1665 and was rebuilt then destroyed again. The 8-storey tower stands 55 metres tall, surrounded by massive stone walls and twin moats - the outer moat encloses 60 hectares of parkland.
Inside, 7 floors house a museum of Hideyoshi's life with elaborate golden screens and samurai armour. The 8th-floor observation deck offers a sweeping view over Osaka. The surrounding park has 3000 cherry trees and is a top hanami destination in early April. Admission 600 JPY; combined with Sakuya Lujo gardens 950 JPY. Open 09:00-17:00 daily, extended to 19:00 in spring/summer holiday periods.
Pro Tip: Enter via the eastern Aoyamon gate rather than the main southern Otemon gate - the eastern approach is more atmospheric and crosses the inner moat with the keep dramatically framed by trees. Skip the elevator and climb the stairs to see the museum properly.
Hotels (10)
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