The Ultimate Guide to Castles in Osaka, Japan
Osaka, the third most populous city in Japan, stands as one of the finest destinations for learning more about Japanese history and culture.
This port city has witnessed countless pivotal events that have left a permanent mark on the nation. To truly grasp Osaka's significance, one must explore its magnificent castles.
These formidable structures not only showcase some of the most breathtaking architecture in the Land of the Rising Sun but also hold profound historical value.
Conveniently, they are easily reachable via the Kansai JR lines. With that in mind, we've curated a mix of six renowned castles in Osaka, Japan, for your exploration and enjoyment!
Osaka Castle
Arguably, the most famous Japanese castle, Osaka Castle, held a crucial role in Japan's feudal history.
From the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 to the unification of Japan in 1614, Osaka Castle was an invaluable fort that made or broke resistances for the warring clans.
Today, this majestic castle overlooks the bustling metropolis of Osaka, serving as its most famous landmark.
Visitors can also walk inside Osaka Castle Museum to learn more about its history. But make sure to take photos of the grand castle as well.
It can serve as a picturesque site for professional photo shoots. Residing in the castle's former western citadel, you can visit the Nishinomaru Garden for a serene escape within the castle grounds.
Although it's a private area, access is available for a nominal fee. The castle also draws a massive crowd during the cherry blossom season, when the sakura trees are in full, breathtaking bloom.
Step inside Osaka Castle to discover its intricate architecture and its rich history. The castle has five floors on the outside and eight floors on the inside.
Despite modern amenities like an elevator system, the traditional interior design of Osaka Castle remains remarkably preserved.
Today, the eight floors serve various functions. The roof tiles of the castle still adorn a classic Japanese design, each plated with nearly a quintal of pure gold.
The castle's striking white walls also stand out as a prominent feature.
Don't miss Osaka Castle Park if you want to have a beautiful walk through the meadows. Be sure to check the Osaka Castle opening hours for your visit.
Address: Osaka Castle, 1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan (Map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9am to 5pm
Osaka Castle Entrance Fee: Adults ¥600, Children free.
How To Get There: The journey from Osaka Station to Osaka Castle takes approximately 10 minutes by car.
Pro Tip: For a truly magical experience, visit Osaka Castle at night when it's beautifully illuminated, creating a stunning contrast against the darkened surroundings and reflecting in the moat for an enchanting view - perfect for photographers and those seeking a unique, tranquil atmosphere.
Kishiwada Castle
In the heart of the town is Kishiwada Castle, which also served as a refuge during conflicts that shaped Japan.
It was considered a strategic location, facing Osaka Bay, which provided accessible routes to neighbouring towns.
The original five-storey main tower was destroyed by lightning in 1827 and was replaced by a three-storey tower in 1954. This replaced tower now houses the Kishiwada Castle Museum.
The castle's top floor offers a panoramic view of the city and Osaka Bay, making it a popular spot for photography.
Be sure to check out Honshu Garden within the castle complex. The Japanese Government recognises this impressive garden as a National Place for Scenic Beauty.
Address: 9-1 Kishikichō, Kishiwada, Osaka 596-0073, Japan (Map)
Opening Hours: Tues to Sun, 10am to 5pm. Closed on Mon
Kishiwada Castle Entrance Fee: Adults ¥300, Children free.
How To Get There: To get to Kishiwada Castle, first, take a train to Kishiwada Station. Then, it's a short 15-minute walk from there.
Pro Tip: Explore the surrounding Kishiwada City Park, where you can enjoy a stroll and get picturesque views of the castle.
Eboshigata Castle
A castle that did not survive in Osaka Prefecture was Eboshigata Castle.
Located on top of Mount Eboshigata, the castle is strategically positioned between the port city of Sakai and the Imperial City of Kyoto.
Eboshigata Castle is one of the seven castles built by Kusunoki Masashige.
Today, the Japanese Government recognises the castle ruins as part of Eboshigata Park, which also encompasses the Eboshigata Kofun Burial Mound.
Address: Eboshigata Park, 725-725-1 Kitacho, 喜多町 Kawachinagano, Osaka, Japan (Map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 12am to 11:59pm
Eboshigata Castle Entrance Fee: Free
How To Get There: The Eboshigata Castle ruins are about a 15-minute walk from Kawachinagano Station on the Nankai Electric Railway Kōya Line. You can also walk north, about 20 minutes from Mikkaichicho Station.
Pro Tip: Visit Eboshigata Castle in autumn when the surrounding marshland and reeds turn vibrant shades of red and gold, creating a breathtaking natural backdrop for your exploration.
Kami-Akasaka Castle
While it only remains as a shell of its former glory, Kami-Akasaka Castle was known as a tough castle to penetrate.
At the heart of a strategic defensive network, Kami-Akasaka Castle lies at the heart of a defensive position, supported by numerous smaller fortifications on the surrounding hills.
Shimo-Akasaka Castle, situated at a lower elevation, is on the opposite side of a small river.
In 1331, during Emperor Go-Daigo's attempt to overthrow the Kamakura shogunate in the Genkō War, he took the help of Prince Moriyoshi and a local lord from the Chihaya-Akasaka area, Kusunoki Masashige, to build an army.
However, this initial endeavour met with failure. Emperor Go-Daigo was subsequently captured and exiled to the Oki Islands.
At the same time, Kusunoki Masashige, faking his death during the Siege of Akasaka, sought refuge in the remote mountains of his territory. There, he went on to construct Kami-Akasaka Castle and Chihaya Castle.
Kami-Akasaka Castle had fortifications from top to bottom, from dry moats to high stone walls. The castle also benefits from being surrounded by valleys. It was razed to the ground in 1360 but is now recognised as a Japanese Historic Site.
Address: Kiriyama, Chihayaakasaka, Minamikawachi District, Osaka 585-0043, Japan (Map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 24 hours
Kami-Akasaka Castle Entrance Fee: Free
How To Get There: If you have access to a car, you can drive directly to the vicinity of Kami-Akasaka Castle. Use a GPS or map app to navigate to the location.
Pro Tip: Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to experience the site in a quieter and more serene atmosphere.
Bonus: Nijo Castle in Kyoto
At only 45 minutes from Osaka, Kyoto has many historic sites for the history buff.
Start by visiting Nijo Castle, the residence of the famous leader Tokugawa Ieyasu (the first shogun of the Edo Period).
The castle's construction began in 1601 and was completed under the guidance of Ieyasu's grandson, Iemitsu, after almost 25 years. In 1939, the castle was generously donated to the city of Kyoto, and shortly after that, it was officially opened to the public.
Nijo Castle is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and celebrated for its historical and architectural importance.
One of the unique features of Nijo Castle is its "nightingale floors" (uguisubari), designed to chirp like birds when walked upon, providing an audible alert to potential intruders.
While the main castle tower has burned down, Ninomaru Palace can still be visited.
This lavish palace has ornate decorations of gold leaves and elaborate wood carvings on its walls. Aside from their beauty, these designs are meant to impress and even intimidate people with the shogunate's power.
Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8301, Japan (Map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 8:45am to 5pm
Nijo Castle Entrance Fee: Adults ¥1,300, Junior High and High School Students ¥400, Elementary School Students ¥300.
How To Get There: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Nijo Station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to Nijo Castle.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to rent an audio guide available in many languages to get in-depth information about the history and significance of Nijo Castle as you explore.
Hotels Near Osaka's Historic Castles
Osaka, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to some of Japan's most iconic castles. As you embark on a journey through time, immersing yourself in the stories of samurai and ancient emperors, finding suitable accommodation is crucial to enhance your experience.
Luckily, Osaka has many hotels very close to these historic landmarks, offering comfort, luxury, and easy access. Join us on this journey as we unveil the best hotels near Osaka's enchanting castles!
Hotel Osaka Castle
Located next to the Tenmabashi Subway Station, Hotel Osaka Castle offers guests comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a view of Osaka Castle and Osaka Castle Garden.
If you want to explore, walk to Osaka Temmangu Shrine in just 10 minutes or get to Osaka Castle by train in 20 minutes. And if you're in the mood for shopping and fun, it's only a 15-minute subway ride to the lively Umeda area.
For meals, Restaurant Riviere has a great view of the Okawa River and serves food from around the world. You can also try Kinjokaku Chinese Restaurant, Cafe Le Port, and Main Bar Kawamo for delicious options!
Address: 1-1 Tenmabashikyomachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0032, Japan (Map)
Hotel Route Inn Osaka Izumifuchu
Situated in Izumi, Hotel Route Inn Osaka Izumifuchu is close to Saifuku-ji Temple (just a 6-minute walk!) and Izumi Inoue Shrine (not even 700 yards away). The hotel has a restaurant, and you can use the free WiFi everywhere in the hotel.
It's approximately a 20-minute drive from Kishiwada Castle. If you're driving, there's also a free parking spot just for you!
Address: 594-0071 Osaka Prefecture, Izumi, Fuchumachi 4-10-37, Japan (Map)
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Osaka-Uehonmachi
Only a minute's walk from Osaka-Uehonmachi Train Station, this hotel provides modern amenities and is easily accessible from Eboshigata Castle.
You can enjoy free Wi-Fi everywhere in the hotel, and they offer laptop rentals at the 24-hour front desk.
Address: 543-0001 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Tennoji-ku Uehonmachi 6-7-5, Japan (Map)
Miyako City Osaka Tennoji
Linked to Tennoji Station, Miyako City Osaka Tennoji provides cosy rooms with complimentary mineral water. Enjoy a sky lounge and WiFi too.
Osaka Castle is about a 15-minute train ride away, while the Nara area can be accessed in about 30 minutes from JR Tennoji Train Station.
You can relish international cuisine with city views at Sky Restaurant Etoile or sip tea at the Lobby Lounge.
Address: 1 Chome-2-8 Matsuzakicho, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-0053, Japan (Map)
Hotel Keihan Tenmabashi
Located just a minute's walk from Tenmabashi station on the Keihan Railway and Subway Tanimachi line, Hotel Keihan Tenmabashi offers a comfortable retreat for exploring Osaka and Kyoto's famed attractions.
Guests are welcomed into air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and a relaxing bathtub. For those in need of relaxation, the hotel offers massage services, ensuring a rejuvenating stay.
Osaka Castle is a short 1.5 km away, and Universal Studios Japan is just a 30-minute drive. Additionally, the bustling Umeda area is conveniently reachable with a quick 12-minute train ride from the nearby Tenmabashi Station.
Your stay at Keihan Tenmabashi promises both convenience and comfort, ensuring a memorable experience in Osaka.
Address: Japan, 〒540-0012 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Tanimachi, 1 Chome−2−10 2Ｆ (Map)
Address: Japan, 〒600-8472 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Myodenjicho, 707-1 (Map)
Insider Tip on How You Can Explore Osaka Limitlessly & Save Significantly!
What if there's a way to unleash the full potential of your Osaka adventure?
Yes, you heard it right - you can experience the freedom of unlimited travel on Osaka Metro lines and most City Bus routes across the vibrant Osaka region.
Whether you choose the one or two-day option, this pass is your ticket to seamless exploration and significant savings!
The best part is that you'll enjoy reduced rates for must-visit attractions like Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower, the enchanting Santa Maria Bay Cruise, and much more.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to dive deep into Osaka's culture and charm.
A Journey Through History to Discover Osaka's Castles
History to Discover Osaka's Castles
Exploring the castles of Osaka offers a captivating journey through Japan's rich history and architectural heritage.
From the grandeur of Osaka Castle, a symbol of samurai power, to the serene beauty of Kishiwada Castle, nestled amidst cherry blossoms, each site unveils a unique facet of Japanese culture.
Don't miss the chance to wander through these ancient fortresses and immerse yourself in the stories they hold, making your cultural trip to Japan an unforgettable experience.
You can also get your sightseeing pass now for limitless exploration of Kyoto and Osaka's top attractions.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the must-visit castles in Osaka, Japan?
The must-visit castles in Osaka include Osaka Castle, Kishiwada Castle, Eboshigata Castle, Kami-Akasaka Castle, and Nijo Castle.
How much is the Osaka Castle admission fee?
The Osaka Castle entry fee is 600 yen for adults, 350 yen for children aged 7-15, and free for children under 6 years old.
Can I enter the main towers of these castles?
While some castles allow access to the main towers, others may have reconstructed towers or designated viewing areas.
What are the best times to visit for cherry blossom viewing?
The best times for cherry blossom viewing (sakura) are typically from late March to early April but vary each year.
How long does it take to explore each castle in Japan thoroughly?
The time needed to explore each castle varies, but a thorough visit can take 1.5 to 3 hours.