Osaka Castle
1:58 AMEnjoy fall foliage in the castle grounds. One of Osaka's iconic sights, the Osaka Castle is among the must-see spots. The grounds are beautiful and it;s great to walk around the park (Osaka -Koen). Even beautiful in the Spring when cherry blossoms are at it's peak and in the fall to enjoy the Koyo or autumn foliage.
The Castle itself is a replica which houses a museum and an
observatory on its top deck.
I wouldn't advise going inside the castle itself. There is
usually a long line to go inside even before it opens. You aren't allowed to
take photos in the museum part. The view on the observation area is beautiful
but is a little blocked with the wire fencing around. There is just a few
elevators going up and you'll have to take the stairs going down. Stairs is
quite narrow and is usually packed with numerous visitors.
I'd suggest visiting early in the day to avoid the crowds and
would work your way down. Start with the observatory then go down to the museum
and displays. If availing of the Osaka Amazing Pass, entrance is free. You'll
just present your Osaka Amazing Pass ticket to enter.
There are souvenir shops inside the castle and around the park.
There is a machine that sells medals you can personalize with your name and
dates your visit in the park. You have the option to purchase a keychain holder
or necklace to hold the pendant.
There is also a time capsule that is buried in front of the castle.
Look for the marker. Enjoy some soft ice cream and some souvenir shopping
around the park.
The Castle is about 15 minute walk from either Morinomiya, Osakajo
koen, or Tanimachiyonchome Stations.
I use the Morinomiya station and have a pleasant walk up.
It's close to where buses park, so there won't be a problem getting lost since
all you need to do is follow the tourists going in.
From Morinomiya exit 1 or 3B, walk up to the grounds passing
the Southern outer moat on your left, then continue up the driveway towards the
Sakuramon Gate then enter. You'll approach the castle's main tower from the
front. There are souvenir stands in the left side and the time capsule is in
the middle part of the area.
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Entrance Fee: Y600
Museum, Castle Grounds: Free
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Nearest Train Station: Morinomiya (Chuo
Exit # 1 , 3-B or Nagahori Tsurumiryokchi Line Exit # 3-B) ; Tanimachi
4 Chome Station (Chuo Line Exit # 9) / tanimachi line) or Osakajo Koen
(JR Osaka Loop
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Hours of Operation: 9:00 -
5:00 PM Museum
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