Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is 100% worth checking out – it’s stunning. It’s full of history and the view from the top is magical. Really, even if you’re not into towers and city views like me, it’s still quite special. Okay, let’s check out some photos. Oh, and note the landscaping – it’s wild, yet plays second fiddle to the castle itself.

First, when you embark on the castle grounds, you’ll be met with an intimidating wall, a fortis, if you will. It’s big, it’s mammoth, and it’s powerful.

Be sure to check out the maps along the grounds, so you don’t miss anything interesting. The run and walk course is neat, isn’t it?

Okay, up first, getting inside the wall. You can see the tip-top of the castle in the photo below. Also, aren’t the trees neat?!

Up next, the castle. You can’t buy tickets in advance, at least you couldn’t when we visited. We waited about 20 minutes inline before entering. It wasn’t too long and we were in the shade for about 15 of those minutes, so it was pleasant. Plus, some grade-a people watching time!

Once inside there are various floors filled with history exhibits, and we checked them all out. Seeing mock settings of battles and timelines of events. Super neat.

The best part, though, is the lookout at the top. Up what felt like 15 flights of stairs (only 8 floors up), the view is waiting, and it doesn’t disappoint.

We spent about 2 hours inside the Osaka Castle walls and got some really nice photos at the end. There’s a little pond off to the left of the castle and the landscaping is perfect in the fall. Check them out.

All in all, this is a definite highlight of our time in Osaka – the Osaka Castle is most certainly worth the visit. Be sure to check it out if you’re in the area.

Happy travelling!