Osaka Castle: Japan’s Most Visited Castle

Osaka Castle Park, centered on the main keep.

Osaka Castle Hall is used for many events, from sports to concerts and university entrance ceremonies.

The design of today’s keep is based on the castle depicted on a folding screen of the second Siege of Osaka.

A golden shachihoko roof ornament and tiger are displayed on the second floor.

A diorama with miniature figures depicting a battle at the second Siege of Osaka.

Several helmets are available for trying on, including that of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (second from right).

A walkway goes all around the eighth floor, offering panoramic views of Osaka.

Take a photo of the Osaka skyline with a shachihoko roof ornament in the foreground.

The Ōtemon Gate at the castle’s front entrance.

The roof over the Kinmeisui well, erected in 1626.

The Sengan Turret, one of the few original structures remaining after repeated calamities.

The tako ishi at Sakuramon Gate at the front entrance to the castle.

The Higo ishi that is part of the Kyōbashiguchi masugata was transported by laborers from the Bizen Okayama domain.

Cherry blossoms in the Nishinomaru Garden, with the castle in the background.

Somei yoshino cherry blossoms frame a view of the Rokuban Turret, an important cultural property, across the moat.

Many visitors stop at Jō-Terrace Osaka before or after visiting Osaka Castle.

A rest spot provides a photogenic backdrop for an Instagram shot.