The present reconstruction of the main donjon, dating from 1931, is smaller than the castle completed by Hideyoshi in 1586 but still gives some idea of the power and majesty of the original. The largest castle in the country at the time, Osaka-jo's turbulent history began when it was besiefed and destroyed by the Tokugawa shogunate in 1615. The castle was rebuilt but strucj by lightning for a few years later. The remains were burned down in a fire in 1868, just before the Meiji Restoration.
Some ancillary buildingds, including the Tamon tower and the impressive Otemon gate have survived from the Tokugawa period. The modernized lower floors of the main keep display a collection of amor and memorabilia connected with Hideyoshi, including his letters.
Updated Jun 29, 2003
Japan has many Japanese Castles. They differ greatly from the European kind but are grand in the immensity of their moats. However, the central castles themselves tend to be quite small.
Someday I hope to see them all. The castles
are rich in history. It should be noted that photography is absolutely prohibited inside some areas of the castles you may visit.
It's open from 9am to 5pm ( the last admission to the Central Tower at the Castle is no later than 4:30pm)
Updated May 6, 2003
Address: 1-1 Osakajyo Chuoku, Osaka City 540
Phone: 06-6944-0546
The Osaka Castle area is central to the long history of Osaka, which was once the economic hub of all Japan. Located in the area are Osaka Castle, with its recently repaired Main Tower; Osaka Castle Park, a large park surrounding the castle, providing citizens with opportunities for recreation and the remains of the Naniwa Palace. The OBP (Osaka Business Park), a section of futuristic office buildings, is situated in the northeastern part of the area. There, visitors can enjoy communications via up-to-date media. The area also features many shops and restaurants.
Updated Feb 26, 2003
It's green and gold. Which is unique amongst other Japanese castles. The grounds and the walls are cool too. I was there in time for the hanami festival(cherry blossom festival) so the view from the castle of the city with cherry blossoms was lovely. The inside is not original and has been turned into a museum. I have not been inside and am not planning to but if you have the time and the interest it is probably worth it....
Updated Sep 12, 2002
Tenshu-Kaku - The Keep (Main Tower) of Osaka Castle
The present Keep, towering 183 ft high above the rampart is actually a replica which completed in 1931. The original structure was burned to the ground in 1665 when it was struck by lightening.
Written Aug 25, 2002
This castle is ancient and is blessed with that mysterious Japanese architecture. It was built in 1583. In the summer war of 1615 it was destroyed by fire. It was re-built and was completed in 1629. Inside there are cabinets full of Japanese artifacts. From the top there is a great view of osaka. The castle is surrounded by a moat and parkland.
This is a great insight to the old Japan and is well worth a visit.
Written Aug 24, 2002
The Osaka-Jo castle is an impressive bulding, but it is a concrete reconstruction of the old castle. It worths a visit in ay case, there's an interesting museum inside and from the last floor the view on the surroundings is good (entry 500 yen).
The castle is placed in the middle of a big and nice park, very beautiful in cherry-blossom season.
Written Aug 24, 2002
Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: 1-1, Osakajo, Chuo-ku
Phone: (06) 6941-3044
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Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: 1-1, Osakajo, Chuo-ku
Phone: (06) 6941-3044
Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: 1-1, Osakajo, Chuo-ku
Phone: (06) 6941-3044
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