Japan’s rich and involved history over the centuries has resulted in several high-profile and vastly impressive places to visit. Chief among them is Osaka Castle, a castle quite fittingly located in the center of Osaka. With an exceedingly turbulent history, it’s fantastic that Osaka Castle is still standing today, making it an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city of Osaka.
What is Osaka Castle?
Osaka Castle is a structure located in the heart of Osaka. The castle grounds are roughly one square kilometer, making it a very sizable location to visit. The grounds are home to storehouses, turrets, moats, gates, and a well. The tenshu, the castle’s main keep, is five stories tall and stretches high into the sky above the rest of the castle. Of particular note are the many defensive moats surrounding the land’s outer and inner portions, both vital to the castle’s survival during war.
The History of Osaka Castle
The castle was first built in 1583 at the request of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. History buffs might recognize this name as the man who succeeded Oda Nobunaga’s conquest to unify Japan. In this regard, Hideyoshi is known as The Great Unifier of Japan; following Nobunaga’s footsteps, Hideyoshi wanted Osaka Castle to be built like Azuchi Castle, which was only bigger and grander in every way. This accounts for the castle’s formidable size, height, and defensive measures. Not only was the castle to be physically larger than Azuchi Castle, but it was also more magnificent to behold, with gold leaf worked into its siding.
That the castle has suffered a virtually endless series of catastrophes is an understatement. Osaka Castle has a long and turbulent history. In 1614, Tokugawa Ieyasu attacked the castle during the Siege of Osaka. The following year, in the summer of 1615, the castle was assaulted again and finally fell, ending the Toyotomi clan’s rule. In 1660, lightning struck the castle, causing a fire that destroyed much of the structure. In 1868, during the Meiji Restoration, the castle was destroyed by imperial loyalists. Unfortunately, in 1945, bombings during World War II destroyed most of the castle’s armory.
Despite these disasters, Osaka Castle has undergone several restorations. The most recent projects have restored the castle to its former glory, preserving it as a major historical site and symbol of the city. The Castle is safer now than ever as a piece of living history and a museum.
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Fun Events To Do Near Osaka Castle
There are plenty of awesome things to do and see around the castle for those who make the trip to Osaka. There’s always something to check out nearby for fans of music, good food, and just fun pop culture. Here are a few upcoming events to keep an eye out for!
Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival 2025
Lovers of jazz of all kinds absolutely cannot miss this event. With over three thousand artists and over three hundred different acts, the Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival is THE music event to check out. Spanning two days around the business center of Takatsuki City (easily accessible via Japan Rail and Hankyu Rail), there is something for everyone here. Oh, and the best part? It’s all free!
Osaka Comic Con 2025
Located at Intex Osaka, the Osaka Comic Con is exactly what its name promises: tons of comics, video games, movies, and other pop culture awesomeness crammed into a single event. This event can’t be missed for fans of pop culture in any form, especially considering that many famous names from various industries will also be in attendance. Intex Osaka is only a few minutes away from Nakafuto Station, too, making it easy to get to.
The Meat Osaka
With a name like this, it’s easy to understand precisely what this event entails. Located in Nagai Park, only a few minutes from Nagai Station, The Meat Osaka is a veritable paradise for anyone who loves eating meat. With gyudon, tonkatsu, shabu-shabu, and much more available, The Meat Osaka is a food festival that can’t be missed. And to make it even better, attending the event is free, and meal options are only 700 yen a pop!
Why should you travel to Osaka Castle?
Like the other great castles in Japan, Osaka Castle is a testament to and a reminder of Japan’s impressive and daunting national history. It has persevered and withstood centuries of opposition. With its patrons’ and custodians’ care and dedication, Osaka Castle stands tall and proud today, inviting people worldwide to walk its grounds. And, with all the super cool events happening nearby, there’s always something to fill up a weekend getaway. Have you been to Osaka Castle before? If so, what did you think? Please let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear about your trip to the castle!
