Osaka Castle
A main keep and vast park on the site of the castle built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
The current main keep is a Showa-era reconstruction that houses a museum. The grounds, surrounded by tall stone walls and moats, form Osaka Castle Park, great for walks and seasonal flowers.
History & legend
- Fact
In 1583, Toyotomi Hideyoshi began building Osaka Castle.
- Fact
The Toyotomi clan fell and the castle was taken in the Summer Siege of Osaka in 1615. Most of the stone walls you see today were rebuilt afterwards by the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Fact
The current main keep was reconstructed in 1931, funded largely by donations from citizens.
Local tips
- In Japanese, the historical spelling “大坂” and the modern “大阪” are both read “Osaka”.
Nearby & related
- Sanko ShrinePlaceholder imageSamurai era
Sanko Shrine
Home to a statue of Sanada Nobushige (Yukimura) and the “Sanada Tunnel.”
- TamatsukuriPlaceholder imageSamurai era
Tamatsukuri
A neighborhood southeast of Osaka Castle whose name is said to come from ancient bead-making.
- ChausuyamaPlaceholder imageSamurai era
Chausuyama
A small hill in Tennoji Park where both sides set up headquarters during the Siege of Osaka.
Stay nearby
Areas to stay with easy access to this spot.