Osaka Castle Park

Why Osaka Castle Park is special ?

Osaka Castle Park (大阪城公園 Osaka-Jō-Kōen?) is a public urban park and historical site situated at Osaka-Jō in Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan. It lies on the south of the Ōkawa (Kyū-Yodo River) and occupies a large area in the center of the city of Osaka. This park is the second largest park in the city.

The park was constructed on a site with a long history. In the fifteenth century, a militant temple, Ishiyama Hongan-ji, was built here. In 1583, Toyotomi Hideyoshi destroyed Ishiyama Hongan-ji and built Osaka Castle here. From 1870 to 1945 the Osaka Imperial Arsenal used a large area and it was destroyed at end of the World War II. In 1931, Osaka Castle Park was opened to the public, but most of the area was used by the Imperial Japanese Army. After World War II, most of the military complex was removed and replaced by the public urban park.

In the park, there's Osaka Castle Hall, a large athletic field, baseball field, football field, open air music theatre, open-air concert hall, and Osaka Castle Keep Tower. From the top of keep tower, the vista includes Osaka Bay to Mount Ikoma, which surround the Osaka Plain. Every weekend, some busking groups perform in the park. In spring, cherry blossom and plum blossom viewing is popular at this park.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org

What to explore at Osaka Castle Park?

The park area has always been used by militaries during wartime until it was officially opened to the public after World War II. That is why you can also see the moat and the high stone walls to defend the castle that’s nestled on the top of the hill. It is hard to imagine how the stones were brought here to be built into a strong defense more than 500 years ago. Not only the castle itself but also the main structures such as the gate, turrets and storehouse are worth a visit. No wonder the castle park is named as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese Government.

Since this park is about 100 hectares, you may get tired and hungry walking around. If this happens, you can’t help but notice the stores selling ice cream and Osaka famous takoyaki. Or you can always pack a simple lunch and have a picnic here. On weekends, you can even see buskers or magic show performers entertaining the guests, adding fun and energy to the beautiful park.

Source: http://en.japantravel.com

How to get to Osaka Castle Park?

From Tokyo :

[Rail] About 2 hours and 30 minutes to Shin-Osaka Station from Tokyo Station by JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line. About 13 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Osaka-jo Koen Station via JR Osaka Station

From Osaka :

[Rail] 18 min from Tennoji to Osaka-jo-koen Station by JR Loop Line.