Kansai :: Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Osaka and a must-visit for every traveler to the city. The magnificent golden castle was once the residence of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Its imposing architecture reflects the extraordinary presence of this powerful warlord. However, the Osaka Castle you see today is a post–World War II reconstruction—the original donjon (main keep) was destroyed in the battles between Toyotomi Hideyori (Hideyoshi’s son) and Tokugawa Ieyasu over power. The rebuilt castle from the Edo period was later destroyed during the unrest in the Meiji era. The restored Osaka Castle now serves as a “history museum,” showcasing historical documents related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The gorgeously reconstructed donjon features an elevator that takes visitors up to the fifth floor. To reach the eighth-floor observation deck at the very top, you’ll need to climb three more flights of stairs. From the heights, you can enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of Osaka.

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