Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle
4
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
About
Once the largest castle in Japan when originally built in the 1580s, this castle has an observation platform with city views and a history museum that uses holograms, 3D pictures and other technologies to describe the history of the castle and the period during which it was built.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Top ways to experience Osaka Castle
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Address
How to get there
- Osaka Business Park • 8 min walk
- Oosakajoukitadume • 10 min walk
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See what travelers are saying
- Nick MFrenchs Forest, Australia1,011 contributionsHmmm, not sure it’s worth a visitIt’s been said a few times, bit underwhelming; and we didn’t go into the castle itself. The grounds are nice for a walk through, but we didn’t go in because it’s a ‘modern’ castle. The grounds are well kept, and it’s popular. I guess it’s one of those places you could visit, and if it interests you then go.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 9, 2023
- Bobbie WWarwick, Rhode Island1,766 contributionsVery disappointing!The outside of the castle is very impressive. There is a huge moat around the entire castle with very high walls constructed of huge/tall rocks. What was so disappointing was that you don’t see what the castle looked like back in the day, except for the outside. The entire inside is like a museum where each floor describes the history of the castles inhabitants. Interesting but boring. Disappointed there was nothing to show of the actual castle.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 10, 2023
- loulou089457 contributionsBeautiful.Walked up to the castle and around the gardens. Unfortunately we did not have time to go in. We still really enjoyed walking around the gardens and for me even if we had time I would not have gone inside I would have taken a boat trip around the huge moat!Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 14, 2023
- dmas6Santa Ana, California948 contributionsBeautiful and peaceful place to visit.This was part of a tour spot included in our bike tour of Osaka. It was obvious this was a popular site with families, kids playing and couples enjoying a leisurely stroll. I was amazed at how many years this castle has been in existence. Loved meeting people along our journey.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 15, 2023
- Kumar786Bengaluru, India1,081 contributionsAn afternoon in Osaka castle, JapanThe palace is situated in a beautiful garden of about 2 sq.kms. It is about 400+ years. The palace is surrounded by a fort made of huge well cut boulders and a moat full of Water. It has got lot of history. You can spend more time if you are so inclined. Must visit site when in Osaka.Visited September 2023Traveled with friendsWritten October 20, 2023
- JudgeD3Manchester, United Kingdom86 contributionsBeautiful, but busyThe area surrounding the castle is beautiful and the building itself is a wonder. However, unless you have pre-booked tickets there is a long queue to enter and inside it's quite rammed with people. Inside has multiple floors with museum pieces, but it's too busy to read them or get close to study. The top floor offers fantastic views, but again you have to squeeze past a lot of people to get a good view.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 26, 2023
- KellieJ71Melbourne, Australia93 contributionsGreat day out visiting castle and gardensGreat day out. Highly recommend going to the castle. If you have a JR pass, you can fast track the line and get discount. Take the stairs to get to the top as the line for the elevator is very long. Don't worry there is a exhibition on each floor so you can rest. Go on a clear day if possible as the view is wonderfulVisited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 11, 2023
- ZenDark30Portland, Oregon4,472 contributionsStoned ArchitectreImpressive stone construction given is was built in the 15th century. An icon to Japan’s history of warlords. The line was too long to wait for an inside view. Instead we walked the perimeter and avoided the hoards of tourists. The trees surrounding the castle and moat were especially colorful during our fall visit. Look for turtles in the moat. They’re entertaining to watch.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 15, 2023
- Gold LocalGold Coast, Australia28 contributionsOSAKA CASTLEThe grounds are great to wonder around, the buildings and beautiful with history. Osaka castle is great to see on the outside. Inside is like a museum gallery nothing like an ancient castle inside. Great views over Osaka from the top viewing area.Visited November 2023Traveled soloWritten November 21, 2023
- Keshav ANew Delhi, India233 contributionsWorth a visitConveniently located wrt to public transport. Best to buy tickets online and avoid the lines. Beautiful structure that is well maintained. The interiors have many exhibits and presentations about the castles long history.Visited September 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 23, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Geobar01
Manchester, UK1,494 contributions
May 2019
The original castle (Osaka-jo) was erected in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi following the 16th century unification of the country but Japan's historical buildings have succumbed to earthquake, fire and modern warfare. The castle we visited is no different being a reconstruction dating from 1931 so rather than granite we see concrete. That doesn't mean the castle is unimpressive or not worth a visit, it looks impressive and offers good views from its top floor as well as many interesting displays as you ascend.
Like other Japanese castles it's a steep climb up narrowing wooden staircases so not so friendly to anyone with mobility problems.
Inside there are printed histories and audio, photographs and diagrams as well as historical artifacts and armour and a cased samurai sword that extended out at one end so you can lift it and feel the kind of balance absent from the so many European swords. Entry when we visited cost 600 yen and we enjoyed our visit, walking around the surrounding park afterwards where there are some great views of the castle to be found. It's worth wandering to check out some of the other surviving elements of the castle complex. Though not one to make a detour for like the vastly superior Himeji Castle it's definitely worth a visit if you have some time in Osaka.
Like other Japanese castles it's a steep climb up narrowing wooden staircases so not so friendly to anyone with mobility problems.
Inside there are printed histories and audio, photographs and diagrams as well as historical artifacts and armour and a cased samurai sword that extended out at one end so you can lift it and feel the kind of balance absent from the so many European swords. Entry when we visited cost 600 yen and we enjoyed our visit, walking around the surrounding park afterwards where there are some great views of the castle to be found. It's worth wandering to check out some of the other surviving elements of the castle complex. Though not one to make a detour for like the vastly superior Himeji Castle it's definitely worth a visit if you have some time in Osaka.
Written April 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Xiaosu X
Seattle, WA30 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Great informative exhibits inside the Osaka Castle Museum for a fascinating history of the castle. The panoramic view on roof top was nice, too.
If you have 1-day subway pass, you can skip the kiosk line and buy discounted tix at the counter. This helped me avoid a ~1hr line when I visited on Jan 2.
If you have 1-day subway pass, you can skip the kiosk line and buy discounted tix at the counter. This helped me avoid a ~1hr line when I visited on Jan 2.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ali
Jakarta, Indonesia82 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
This place was our first touristic place in Osaka. The biggest castle in Japan that was built in the 16th century. Of course, this castle is a reconstruction of Tokugawa castle in the Shogun era which was ruined during wars.
It is located in a vast park surrounded by moat . It comprises of 8 floors. We got the tickets online to skip the line and the entrance fee for adults was Yen 600 and free for the chikdren below 15( ID required). The guide directed the tourists to the floor 5 in where we could find some animated events during the rule of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. It was worth visiting and interesting for my family too. Then, we went up through stairs to the upper floors. To me, the 8th floor was stunning as it had a panoramic view to the city above 50 meters. Then, at 2nd floor, we found a small line for wearing Samurai and kimono for men and ladies. We should pay Yen 500 for each along with a free picture.
There was another building near Osaka Castle so called Miraiza Osaka which was used as Japanese Army fourth Division in 1930 but now being used for café , stores and souvenirs.
My tip : for those who cannot walk long or face limited time , I recommend to get the internal small train which takes you around the park and castle and to castle as a final destination. The price for the ticket is Yen 400 per person for one way, meaning that for return, you should buy another one if you need it.
At the end, I recommend visiting this nice castle and to me is the first and best touristic site in Osaka.
It is located in a vast park surrounded by moat . It comprises of 8 floors. We got the tickets online to skip the line and the entrance fee for adults was Yen 600 and free for the chikdren below 15( ID required). The guide directed the tourists to the floor 5 in where we could find some animated events during the rule of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. It was worth visiting and interesting for my family too. Then, we went up through stairs to the upper floors. To me, the 8th floor was stunning as it had a panoramic view to the city above 50 meters. Then, at 2nd floor, we found a small line for wearing Samurai and kimono for men and ladies. We should pay Yen 500 for each along with a free picture.
There was another building near Osaka Castle so called Miraiza Osaka which was used as Japanese Army fourth Division in 1930 but now being used for café , stores and souvenirs.
My tip : for those who cannot walk long or face limited time , I recommend to get the internal small train which takes you around the park and castle and to castle as a final destination. The price for the ticket is Yen 400 per person for one way, meaning that for return, you should buy another one if you need it.
At the end, I recommend visiting this nice castle and to me is the first and best touristic site in Osaka.
Written April 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tanya T.
Illinois1,615 contributions
May 2024 • Family
We added Osaka Castle to our itinerary with the expectation of being able to explore the interior, but upon arrival, we learned it operates primarily as a museum. After reviewing online feedback, it became evident that most visitors found the admission fee, roughly 600 yen, unjustified. Instead, we opted to appreciate the castle's exterior and stroll through the picturesque grounds. Before reaching the castle entrance, visitors can explore a public center housing gift shops and restaurants that offer quick bites. There are public restrooms located on the first floor, with the second floor typically less crowded than the first.
In retrospect, while Osaka Castle holds historical significance, there are far more captivating attractions to experience within the city. Unless you're a fervent history enthusiast or have a particular interest in the castle's museum exhibits, I would not recommend dedicating substantial time here.
For travelers seeking a comprehensive Osaka experience, it might be wiser to prioritize a city tour. Osaka has a multitude of vibrant districts, culinary experiences, and cultural treasures that arguably provide a more immersive and memorable visit.
In retrospect, while Osaka Castle holds historical significance, there are far more captivating attractions to experience within the city. Unless you're a fervent history enthusiast or have a particular interest in the castle's museum exhibits, I would not recommend dedicating substantial time here.
For travelers seeking a comprehensive Osaka experience, it might be wiser to prioritize a city tour. Osaka has a multitude of vibrant districts, culinary experiences, and cultural treasures that arguably provide a more immersive and memorable visit.
Written June 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom H
Santa Cruz, CA403 contributions
Apr 2023
This is the most impressive structure in Osaka and well worth a visit. Its located in a huge park area that especially during cherry blossom season is gorgeous. It is a tall, beautiful structure with bronze highlights and was featured in the final battle in the book, “Shogun”. The walls of the castle are impressive for the size of the rocks and their girth as they plunge into the surrounding moat. We chose to only tour the castle itself and not the turrets which took several hours alone. You should know that the castle has multiple floors which have been reconstructed as exhibit rooms to tell the history of the castle in relation to Japanese history instead of staying true to its original purpose which was for defense. Since it is a very popular spot they have created a one-way track to follow which starts with entering an elevator to the top floor, then you proceed downwards through the rooms seeing the historical presentations. The cost of admission is easily paid for by the view from the top floor where you walk completely around for a 360-degree view of the city stretching below. I found the contemporary paintings of the final battle from “Shogun” the best display as you could see the flags of the different generals and leaders during the melee.
Written May 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amanda W
Seattle, WA79 contributions
Feb 2020
A gorgeous castle with beautiful grounds. The Museum is interesting in telling the full story on the construction, the owners, and the reconstruction of the castle. Including an outdoor observation area on the top and spacious and beautiful grounds. See the plum and peach grove as well in early spring as the blossoms are magical and fragrant.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Urrbraelady
Burnside, Australia79 contributions
Nov 2019 • Family
The recreated Osaka Castle is stunning and provides an amazing view from the top. The museum exhibits whilst lovely to look at are likely to really only interest those with a keen interest in feudal Japan. Highly recommend taking the elevator as high as possible and walking down rather than the crowded stairs.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Harald Gracholski
Cologne, Germany7,178 contributions
Nov 2019
The example of Osaka and its castle proves again, that re-building a city's identity through forgotten or destroyed landmarks is a valuable thing to do. Not only does the castle serve as a tourist magnet that is nice to look at and take pictures in front of, but it strengthens the ties of its citizens and their home town. Unfortunately we only got to visit the castle from its outside, as we arrived rather late in Osaka (not even sure if they do tours), but that alone was worth the effort, as we took a stroll through the surrounding park, took pictures and simply enjoyed the view - all for free.
Written April 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mikeS7619
San Tan Valley, AZ129 contributions
Dec 2019
I managed to visit 5 castles during my time in Japan and Osaka Castle was the nicest looking but had the most tourist by far. The inside was a disappointment because it is mainly just a square museum built around an elevator and stairs with the rest of the castle closed off. I prefer castles that you get to explore, not museums.
There is allot of rich history associated with this castle and it is excellently displayed in the museum and the castle park is worth exploring but the castle itself is best viewed from the outside.
There is allot of rich history associated with this castle and it is excellently displayed in the museum and the castle park is worth exploring but the castle itself is best viewed from the outside.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
VinnieLondon
London, UK12,781 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Top must see sight of Osaka. Access via surrounding park ..Osakajokoen or Morinomiya best JR stations to use on Osaka Loop Line..arrive at one leave at other for a nice round trip. 600 yen entrance fee and 100 yen to store your luggage/bag. Elevator to all floors ..7th floor fantastic 360 viewing platform, No photos on 3 and 4 floors. Amazing castle and moats. Visit.
Written January 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
solo L’esterno del castello è visitabile non a pagamento….???
Written June 22, 2024
Si, è possibile vederlo dall'esterno gratuitamente, si arriva praticamente ai suoi piedi dove c'è l'ingresso per chi vuole visitarlo al suo interno (all'interno è a pagamento invece)
Written June 22, 2024
Se puede visitar un lunes el exterior aunque pongan que los jardines estan cerrados?
Written February 8, 2024
I think you got the old information.
Now it is written online as below.
An entry is available every day from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closing at 5:00 PM. Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (December 28th to January 1st)
Written February 10, 2024
BigFootNala
Bologna, Italy
Hello everyone, do you know if there is any way to buy the tickets for the Osaka castle and museum online in order to avoid queuing? If not, do you think we will face massive queues (we will be there on August, 21st)? Thanks in advance!
Written June 23, 2019
I don’t think so. You buy tickets onsite from a ticket machine so any line moves quickly. If you want to worry about lines and queuing you should worry about the crowds inside. These are enough to ruin the experience. Go early to miss the crowds or dont’ go at all. That’s my advice.
Written June 28, 2019
Are you able to take photos of the castle or grounds without paying the admission fee? Do they accept credit card/Icoca card as a form of payment?
Written January 23, 2019
Isaiah K
Singapore, Singapore
1 contribution
Yes you can access the castle grounds free of charge. That's what I did! But you need to pay for admission into the castle, which might be worth it for the panoramic views.
Written January 24, 2019
Are you able to take photos of the castle or grounds without paying the admission fee? Do they accept credit card/Icoca card as a form of payment?
Written January 23, 2019
No worries. Admission fee is for Castle. Credit and cash OK.
Written September 21, 2019
What are the hours during March/April during Cherry Blossom Times?
Written January 21, 2019
I have visited the Castle several times and always closes at 5pm so, if you arrive at 4pm you would have enough time. It opens at 9am.
Written February 8, 2019
Does the 600 yen cover the whole castle, park, and gardens? What is the Osaka pass?
Written December 26, 2018
Yes, the 600 yen covers everything. The Osaka pass is a pass that gets you into the main tourist attractions in Osaka for a lot cheaper than if you were to pay at each one of them separately. Worth getting if you're interested in going to at least 3 or 4 of the included sites.
Written December 26, 2018
How much is admission in to the castle? And where do you get tickets?
Written December 20, 2018
Admission fee is 600 yen (about us$5).
You can buy them at the main entrance.
Written December 25, 2018
Does children pay the same price as adults?
Written June 15, 2018
There is no charge for children under 15 years old,but you need prove his age.
Obviously a small child may not be necessary it.
Written September 30, 2018
Hi there! I will buy JR PASS to travel in Japan and my question is how can I go to Osaka Castle from KIX airport with JR PASS? Please tell me the easiest and shortest way with the simplest explanations. Thanks in advance :)
Written June 3, 2018
Hello Zehra
Yes I would visit the shine while you are there. If you have time visit the restaurants and tourist shops across the park from the castle. It gets busy but there are places to sit.
If you have more time in Osaka you must visit Dotonbori you will have a wonderful food and people experience.
Enjoy yourself in Osaka
Written June 4, 2018
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